I'm planning ahead for after high school and considering the military. How long do you have to enlist for at minimum in most branches in the USA?
The minimum length of commitment varies depending on the branch of the military and the specific job within that branch. Generally, active duty enlistments include a minimum duty obligation of 4-6 years, but this can be more for certain roles or if a military academy or ROTC scholarship is involved.
The Army, for example, offers enlistment contracts of two, three, four, five, and six years. The Marines, on the other hand, requires a minimum commitment of four years for active duty. The Navy offers four-year enlistment contracts, but it's worth noting that specific job opportunities can require longer commitment times. The Air Force minimum enlistment contract is four years, but there are opportunities to serve for three or six years. The Coast Guard's active-duty enlistment contracts are typically for eight years, with three to six years of active duty and the remainder in the Individual Ready Reserve.
It's highly recommended to speak directly with a recruiter from the specific branch you're considering, as they'll be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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