Difference between Army and National Guard?

I'm exploring my post-graduation options and leaning towards the military. I get that the Army and the National Guard are different branches of the military, but I don't really understand how they differ. Can someone enlighten me?

The Army and the National Guard are both crucial elements of the United States's military structure, but they differ primarily in their mission and deployment.

The U.S. Army is a federal military force that has an active role in protecting the nation's security. It performs full-time duties, responding to international conflicts and emergencies. Soldiers in the Army are typically stationed on bases at home or abroad and can be called upon to serve anywhere in the world.

In contrast, the National Guard serves both state and federal governments. While the National Guard can be federalized and deployed overseas, a primary role is domestic, focusing on service within the individual's home state, including disaster response and community support. For example, you might see National Guard personnel assisting with hurricane recovery or managing civil unrest. National Guard service is typically part-time, with Guard members serving one weekend per month and two weeks per year for training. However, they can transition to full-time service if needed.

It's also important to note that each state has its own National Guard (both Army and Air), which means the Governor of that state can activate the National Guard if needed. Additionally, the President of the United States has the ability to activate the National Guard and place it under federal control in times of national emergencies.

Ultimately, the choice between the Army and the National Guard depends largely on how and where you want to serve. If you're interested in full-time service, possibly involving international deployment and a commitment of several years, the Army might be more for you. If you're looking for a part-time commitment with a focus on helping your local community and state, the National Guard could be an excellent choice. Consider speaking with recruiters for both to gain a better understanding of the potential duties and benefits of each.