Enlisting in the military means voluntarily joining the armed forces and committing to serve as a member of a specific branch, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard.
Enlisted refers to individuals who have joined the military as personnel below officer rank and fulfill various roles and responsibilities to support the mission and operations of the armed forces.
Requirements to enlist in the U.S. military generally include being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, being at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18 years old (without parental consent).
Enlisted members play a vital role in the military by executing missions, providing technical expertise, and contributing to the overall operational readiness and success of the armed forces.
Enlisted military personnel receive benefits such as healthcare, housing allowances, retirement plans, educational opportunities, VA benefits, and access to various support services.
Base compensation is the foundational component of military pay. Each military rank has a corresponding pay grade, and individuals receive a base pay amount based on their rank and time in service.