Posted on Dec 26, 2017
AN Aviation Maintenance Administrationman
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SSgt Pavements and Construction Equipment (DirtBoyz)
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Essentially the title its self is the only real difference, yes you are 'owned' by different parental groups but you are still a member of the United States Air Force. As other members have stated your parents are either the state your unit resides in (Guard) or you fall under the Reserves which are Federally managed. As confusing as it might sound it's rather simple.
1. You all wear the same Airmen Battle Uniform (ABU/Camo)
2. You all follow the same rules and regulations (Air Force Instruction - AFI)
3. Your leadership chain is different no matter where you go - but in the Guard its State level, in the Reserve its big Government
4. You ALL serve this great nation!

When it comes to active positions, there are deeper layers of confusion. THE Active duty is the folks that change bases roughly every 3-4 years. Active Guard or Reserve generally serve one location unless they find a better fit, then they apply for said location just like any other job.

I spent 11 years Active, then went to the Reserves, and have now been selected for a commission in the Illinois Air National Guard. While my experience is far from complete, I have been lucky enough to serve in a vast amount of positions with various levels of involvement.

This fact sheet might help answer some more questions, or feel free to send me a message
http://www.afrc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/857897/the-difference-between-guard-and-reserve/

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MSgt Neil Greenfield
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In the end, after all my time in the Regular Army, Army Reserves, DC ANG, NC ANG, and OH ANG, my official title is MSgt, USAF, Retired. There’s nothing on your uniform that states you are AFR or ANG (except for State NG ribbons, being assigned to an AFR or ANG installation, etc.).
I will say that operational tempo is high for both ANG and AFR as the active AF relies heavily on the units, so staying technically proficient is important.
Promotions are slower than active AF for enlisted as you have to be in the right slot/position and unit. Of course, there’s always the possibility of getting an AGR or Air Technician position which can help you get promoted.
I’ve known both Reservists and Guardsmen/women that fly all over the country to attend drills in other states.
Navy MOSs translate somewhat easier to Air Force AFSCs, depending upon what you want to do, but I’ve known all sorts of people from other services get ahead in the Guard.
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SSgt Geospatial Intelligence
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Well, the simple answer is that the Reserves are still Federal, whereas the Guard is the State component.
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MSgt Materiel Management
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The Governor of each state has the authority to activate guardsmen. and, an Active Reserve member is the same as a regular AF member just assigned to that reserve unit.
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