Vermont National Guard

"The Vermont National Guard stands as a beacon of strength, preparedness, and resilience. Comprising Army and Air National Guard units, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of readiness, training, and professionalism. With a rich history of service, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our state, our nation, and our fellow citizens. Our mission is clear: to provide trained and ready forces to respond to state and federal missions with courage, integrity, and precision. Whether called upon for disaster relief efforts, homeland security initiatives, or overseas deployments, we stand ready to answer the call, safeguarding lives and preserving peace.”

Benefits of the National Guard at Norwich University:

Joining the National Guard while attending Norwich University offers numerous benefits, combining academic excellence with military service:

From the get-go, you'll be in take-charge situations, where your decisions can make the difference between life and death. It's the kind of experience that no entry-level civilian job can match.

Financial Assistance: National Guard members are eligible for financial assistance programs such as the Montgomery GI Bill, Tuition Assistance, and the National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program, helping to offset the costs of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

Leadership Development: Norwich University is renowned for its leadership development programs. Serving in the National Guard provides practical experience in leadership, teamwork, and decision-making, complementing the university's academic curriculum.

Hands-On Training: National Guard training enhances the educational experience by providing hands-on training in various military disciplines, including technical skills, tactical proficiency, and emergency response capabilities.

Networking Opportunities: Joining the National Guard creates networking opportunities with fellow cadets, alumni, and military professionals, expanding your professional network and opening doors to future career opportunities.

Career Advancement: Military service in the National Guard offers career advancement opportunities through promotions, specialized training, and professional development programs, augmenting the skills and knowledge gained at Norwich University.

Service to Country: By serving in the National Guard, cadets at Norwich University contribute to the defense and security of their country, embodying the university's commitment to service and citizenship.

Healthcare Benefits: National Guard members are eligible for healthcare benefits, including access to military healthcare facilities, Tricare insurance coverage, and medical services for themselves and their families.

Real-World Experience: National Guard service provides real-world experience in a dynamic and challenging environment, fostering personal growth, resilience, and adaptability that can be applied both in military and civilian contexts.

Overall, combining National Guard service with education at Norwich University offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, receive financial assistance, and serve one's country while pursuing academic and personal goals.

Simultaneous Membership Program 

The National Guard Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) is an option available to college students who are also members of the National Guard. The SMP program allows these individuals to participate simultaneously in both the National Guard and the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program at their college or university. Here's how the SMP program typically works:

Dual Membership: SMP participants maintain their status as National Guard members while also enrolling in ROTC. This dual membership allows them to receive benefits from both organizations.

ROTC Participation: SMP participants attend ROTC classes, training exercises, and leadership labs alongside their civilian classmates. They are integrated into the ROTC program and receive the same training and education as other ROTC cadets.

Drilling with the Guard: In addition to ROTC commitments, SMP participants continue to fulfill their National Guard obligations by attending monthly drills and annual training with their Guard unit. This allows them to maintain their military skills and readiness.

Financial Benefits: SMP participants may be eligible for financial benefits provided by both the National Guard and ROTC. This can include tuition assistance, drill pay, GI Bill benefits, and ROTC scholarships.

Leadership Opportunities: The SMP program offers valuable leadership opportunities for cadets, allowing them to apply their military training and experience in real-world situations. SMP participants may hold leadership positions within their ROTC unit or National Guard unit.

Commissioning as Officers: Upon completion of their college degree and ROTC training, SMP participants have the opportunity to commission as officers in the National Guard or the active-duty military. This allows them to serve as leaders in the National Guard while pursuing civilian careers.

Overall, the SMP program provides college students with a unique opportunity to gain valuable military experience, leadership skills, and financial benefits while pursuing their education. It allows them to balance their military and academic commitments effectively and prepares them for future leadership roles in the military.

At Norwich University, students in the National Guard do not need to participate in the Corps of Cadets. However, students in the SMP join the Corps of Cadets.