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Where do I go to enlist for the army?

I live in Central IIllinois, I am 13 years old, and I haven't graduated high school yet. Also I know that I am not old enough to enlist for the army. I am just asking for the future.

Thank you comment icon Hey there! It's great to see your interest, but enlisting in the army usually requires you to be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Focus on your studies and keep that interest alive – when the time comes, you can explore your options further. Keyston Rice

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Emma’s Answer

Hey Timothy! Echoing with the answer above - you have to be at least 18 to join. However, you could look into the National Guard which accepts people a bit younger. I believe its 17 now but when I looked into it when I was a teenager, it was 16 years old. I was looking because I was trying to get emancipated and the National Guard was a way to be legally free from my parents. So if you are looking for this reason, I recommend looking into National Guard. All you need to do is search Google Maps for "national guard recruitment" and you'll see recruitment centers pop up. Just go to the closest one and see what they tell you.

If you want to join the Army because you are really interested in it as a career field, you can do something like Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) at your high school or one nearby. The Marine Corps also has a program like this called Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC). Participating in a program like this demonstrates interest and commitment, and sets you on a direct path to joining the military once you've finished high school or gotten your GED. Hope this helps!
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Robert’s Answer

Hi Timothy. Since you are too young you can start researching the Army by going to the website which i will include the link.
https://www.goarmy.com/
Thank you comment icon Thanks, I'll make sure to go to their website. Timothy
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David’s Answer

Hi Timothy! You have to be close to being 18 and with your GED or HS diploma. Please ensure you get your HS diploma over a GED. Some branches, like the USAF, only accept so many people a year with GEDs. I almost went that route and instead chose to finish school then join. This way I was guaranteed on getting in after doing great on my ASVAB. Which is the other part you will need to complete. Your local recruiter, when you are of age, will assist you. My son, 17, is starting to workout more and practice for his ASVAB now so he is more prepared to leave next year.

You are still young so please enjoy your next few years before thinking about this huge life choice. Take care and best of luck!

David recommends the following next steps:

Work on 2 mile run time
Work on pushups on 2 minute timer
Work on situps on 2 minute timer
Practice ASVAB
Ensure Highschool Diploma is completed over GED.
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Emily’s Answer

To join the military, you need to be at least 18 years old. But if this is something that catches your eye, why not dive a bit deeper? Start by exploring more about the journey, and find a nearby recruitment center where you can chat with someone. They can guide you on what it takes to join, and even suggest some helpful activities outside of school or work.
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Mark’s Answer

Start by finishing high school, study hard and do well and it'll pay off when taking the ASVAB. Learn about what those scores mean as they determine what type of training you can get when you go in, don't blindly believe the recruiter. I started out as a truck driver, spent the last 10 years of my time in as a computer programmer/Systems Analyst. It gave me the work experience that has stood me well in my civilian life.
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