Two airmen overlooking a mountain from aircraft

Ways to Serve

Comparison Table
	Air Force Active Duty	Air National Guard	Air Force Reserve
What's the mission?	You’ll strengthen the defense of our nation by contributing to unrivaled airpower.	You’ll serve your country and state while living in your hometown.	You’ll serve your country while living in the state of your choice.
What's the time commitment?	Full time with 4- or 6-year options to start	Part time or full time (if you have prior service), working one weekend each month.	Part time or full time (if you have prior service)
Can I be deployed?	Members of active-duty service deploy when called upon. Likelihood of deployment varies depending on career.	Deployment is based on need/circumstance, with a greater focus on stateside missions than federal ones.	Deployment is based on need/circumstance, with a greater focus on federal missions than local ones.
Where can I go?	Explore the world with opportunities to be both stateside and abroad.	Serve close to home or in the state of your choosing.	Serve close to home or in the state of your choosing, with opportunities abroad.
What are some tangible benefits?	Housing allowance, no-cost health insurance, tuition assistance, continuing education opportunities and retirement benefits	Similar benefits to active duty with low-cost healthcare and additional state-specific benefits like tax breaks and tuition assistance.	Similar benefits to active duty with low-cost healthcare and additional state-specific benefits like tax breaks and tuition assistance.
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