Alun Thomas/US Army Recruiting Command
- For someone who wants to join the US Army, the first step is calling a local recruiting office.
- The path to enlistment includes an aptitude exam, medical screening, and career counseling - all before taking an oath or making a commitment.
- Once enlisted, recruits head off to basic combat training, the Army's boot camp.
The Army also has options for those who want to serve as commissioned officers. Which option is best depends on your education level, where you want to go to school, and your age or family status.
Enlistees can also join the Army Reserves or Army National Guard directly.