Do I have to live in the state that I join?                                                                                                                      No, you don't. You have the flexibility to join any state you’d like, however, proximity is encouraged as it allows you to take advantage of short-notice opportunities. Some individuals fly across the country to attend drill.

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Do I have to live in Ohio to join?

No, you don't need to live in Ohio to join.

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There are no Special Forces units in my state; which one should I join?                                                     Test the waters. We are proud of our military accomplishments in B/2/19 SF Ohio Army National Guard. But another state might be a better option for you if it is regionally located. That being said, soldiers from all over the US come to B/2/19 SFG(A) for our diverse training opportunities and individualized support from our HQ which in turn leads to our soldiers getting excellent training and mobilization. Keep in mind, transferring back and forth to other states will often cycle you back to a lower level on an Order of Merit list. Most soldiers will remain in B/2/19 OHARNG for their careers. Occasionally, they will transfer states for work or family.

 

Am I paid to travel?                                                                                                                                                                 

This depends on the type of order you are on but most often you are paid to travel. Generally speaking, you will be reimbursed up to $500 per drill for travel.

 

What if I move somewhere else? Can I transfer to a different Group/Company?                                   You can transfer to any unit you want with approval of the gaining and losing units.

 

What are my responsibilities?                                                                                                                               

The minimum requirements are the same as any other National Guard unit: two days a month and two weeks a year. How this is broken up is dependent on where specifically you are (i.e. two months may be combined into one). Beyond the minimum you can almost always chose to do more: attend schools, fill taskings, or assist in training.

 

What is the minimum enlistment?                                                                                                                 

1 year. The "try one" option from Active Duty SF to B/2/19 SF OHARNG is a popular plan. 80% of soldiers who come off Active Duty and do a "try one" contract will reenlist with B/2/19 SF after their first year try out is completed.

 

How does pay work?                                                                                                                                           

All your pay is prorated for the number of days you work, with a few exceptions, e.g., Language Proficiency Pay is paid in full regardless of how many days you work.

 

Are there any bonuses available?                                                                                      

This changes often but most often yes. Please reach out for current bonuses.

 

Are there schools to attend?                                                                                                                                         There are almost always slots available to Special Forces schools to attend.

 

Are there language requirements?                                                                                                                           Yes, the same language requirements apply and language courses are available throughout the year. In order to receive language pay, you must score a 1+/1+ on the DLPT or OPI.

 

What happens if I miss drill?                                                                                                                                       With the approval of the chain of command, you can make up missed drills.

 

How often does B/2/19 SFG deploy?                                                                                                                       Current operational tempo is 6 months in every 36 months, i.e., 30 month dwell time. However, this varies depending on operational demands.

 

Can I take a break from deploying?                                                                                                                        Most NGSF States will work with you to accommodate your life needs. Please make this known up front.

 

Whats the difference between Title 10 and Title 32 orders?                                                                              The National Guard is unique in that you can work under multiple Titles and Authorities. Title 10 orders are Federal orders, meaning that you are essentially filling the same role as Active Duty troops. Title 32 are State orders which place you under the command of the state and/or your unit. This allows you to assist in domestic situations, such as disaster relief or counter-drug operations.

 

How does medical coverage work?                                                                                                                           You and your family are always eligible to pay for Tricare Reserve Select. When you are on orders greater than 30 days, you and your family fall under Tricare Prime or Tricare Standard just like on AD.