Military Checklist
1. Investigate the different branches and what they have to offer.
Air Force: The Air Force defends the United States through control and exploration of air and space. The Air Force flies and maintains aircraft, such as long-range bombers, supersonic fighters, Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft and many others to protect the interests of America and American allies.
Army: The Army’s mission is to protect the security of the United States and its vital resources. The Army is constantly ready to defend American interests and the interests of our allies through land-based operations anywhere in the world.
Army National Guard: The federal mission of the Army National Guard is to be prepared to be called to active duty as a reserve of the Army.
Coast Guard: The Coast Guard mission is to protect America’s coastlines and inland waterways by enforcing customs and fishing laws, combating drug smuggling, conducting search and rescue missions, maintaining light houses and promoting boat safety.
Marines: The Marine Corps has grown to become one of the most elite fighting forces in the world. Approximately 174,000 officers and enlisted Marines fly planes and helicopters, operate radar equipment, drive armored vehicles, and gather intelligence along with hundreds of other jobs.
Merchant Marines: Merchant mariners move cargo and passengers between nations and within the United States, operate and maintain deep-sea merchant ships and other waterborne craft on the oceans, the Great Lakes, rivers, canals, harbors, and other waterways. In time of war, the Merchant Marine is capable of being an auxiliary to the Navy, and can be called upon to deliver troops and supplies for the military.
Navy: Navy plays an important role in helping to maintain the freedom of the United States. The Navy defends the right to travel and trade freely on the world’s oceans and protects our country and national interests overseas during times of international conflict.
2. Decide which branch of the military you are interested in.
3. Talk to a recruiter from the branch. Get contact information in L127.
4. Ask about careers and training available through that branch.
5. Take the ASVAB test.
- The ASVAB test may be scheduled through the recruiter.
- On campus ASVAB offered by registration (check DISD email)
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Armed Services provide financial aid benefits for soldiers that want to pursue a college education.
Military academies are universities and have a rigorous, multi-step application process that takes several months and may require a congressional nomination.