Presented by the US Army

The decision to join the U.S. Army starts with some big questions. Below are the answers to some of the most common questions to consider.

What is it like to be in the Army?

The Army will push you mentally and physically. It takes hard work and dedication, but the rewards of that discipline will shape your future. Life in the Army is different for everyone. Like civilian careers, your days will be spent fulfilling your job duties, but you’ll still have free time to do what you love.

How much do Soldiers make?

Your Army salary is based on your rank and years of service, and accounts for only part of your total compensation. We also offer bonuses, allowances, and other benefits that could contribute to your overall income.

How do I join the Army?

The first step to joining typically begins by talking with someone in the Army with no obligation to join and deciding whether or not the Army is a good fit. If it is, you’ll work together through the entire process to complete paperwork, schedule physical and academic tests, and find your future career.

I was not born in the United States. Can I still join the Army?

Yes. If you are a resident alien with an I-551 card or a citizen of the United States and meet the other requirements to join, you can serve in the U.S. Army.

Will I be able to see family and friends while in the Army?

Yes. The Army understands the importance of keeping in touch with family and friends. Soldiers can communicate with their loved ones via calls, emails, video calls, and letters. As a member of the Army, you can receive various benefits while you serve, like 30 days of paid leave per year.

Is there a church service on Sundays and if so, what is it like?

Religious expression is important to the Army, so there are services available on Sundays for a range of denominations. The standard is about an hour for the services. Once you know what location you’ll be training at, we encourage you to check the fort’s website for details.

Are Drill Sergeants as mean and tough as you see in the movies?

Movies tend to exaggerate many elements of Basic Training. Don’t worry. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve. Your Drill Sergeant will motivate and help you. Their priority is ensuring you improve every day and ultimately succeed in every aspect of your training.

Drill Sergeants are there for your own benefit—to motivate you to reach your full potential. They’re professional and care about your well-being. That being said, they are also tough and will demand the most out of you, which can be intimidating. At the end of Basic Training, you’ll really appreciate what they’ve done for you and how you feel about yourself.

Will I be deployed if I join the Army?

While there’s no way to predict whether or not you will be deployed in your Army career, it is possible. You could be deployed at any time for a variety of reasons, such as your Army unit and skill sets.

Deployment is when Soldiers are sent to a specific location to carry out a mission. Depending on the mission length and type, you may be able to bring your family.

To get in touch with a recruiter, visit GoArmy.com or call 1-888-550-ARMY (2769)