13B Cannon Crewmember - Weapons Systems Technician
About the Role
As a Cannon Crewmember in the Army National Guard, you will join a team that ensures the U.S. maintains its battlefield superiority. You’ll deliver decisive blows to the enemy using howitzers and learn how to operate high-tech cannon artillery weapons systems, including artillery tactics and strategy. As your skills increase, so will your responsibilities. Advanced Crewmembers supervise other crewmembers in the distribution of ammunition and manage cannon operations, training, and maintenance.
Responsibilities
- Conduct wire and radio communications
- Identify target locations
- Set, load, and fire artillery
- Use computers to generate fire direction data
- Operate heavy and light wheeled trucks and tracked vehicles
- Transport and manage artillery ammunition
- Maintain operational readiness of vehicles and equipment
- Participate in reconnaissance operations
Skills
- Physically and mentally fit to perform under pressure
- Ability to make quick decisions
- Capable of working as a team member
You’ll become familiar with technology while building strategic thinking and leadership skills that are in high demand in the civilian workforce.
Training
Instead of paying to learn these skills, you will get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.
- 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you learn basic Soldiering skills
- 7 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), part of which is spent in a classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions
Benefits
- Paid training
- A monthly paycheck
- Montgomery GI Bill
- Federal and State tuition assistance
- Retirement benefits for part-time service
- Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
- 401(k)-type savings plan
- Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)
- Health care benefits
- VA home loans
- Bonuses, if applicable
Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change.
Requirements
- Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
- Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
- Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
- Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
- Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)
Programs and benefits are subject to change. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.