FAQ's

How do I log on to my AKO/MyPay account? What is the GAT SURVEY website?

 

To log on to your AKO account review the sign up confirmation sheet given to you at drill. If you can't find that form contact your Recruiter for your username and follow these instructions.......

 Go to: <https://www.us.army.mil>       Select the “Reset Password” link       Enter your AKO username

Select option to reset your password.  Either enter your generic password or answer your security questions. If you select the option to answer your security questions to reset your password and don't know the correct answers please contact your recruiter or SGT Brown and they can give them to you.

It should then prompt you to reset your password utilizing their criteria, minimum 10 characters including 2 uppercase, 2 lowercase, 2 numbers and 2 special characteristics. Once you have it reset go back to the login page and log in.

If you get a message stating that you are not logged in with your CAC that is ok, just look at the bottom option, click to continue to the AKO homepage. Then click button top right for email.

 

Next complete you GAT SURVEY, it takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Go to: <https://sft.army.mil>    Notify SGT Brown once finished.

 

Have you recieved your MYPAY letter in the mail? It usually takes 30 to 45 days. 

Once you received your MYPAY letter, Logon to: <https://mypay.dfas.mil>   

  • Enter Login ID or SSN (no dashes) 
  •  Enter your Temporay PIN by virtal keyboard;click accept/submit. 
  • Check "I agree to Terms..." box; click Accept.
  • Select "Leave and Earning Statement" from menu to view your LES.
  • Recommended to select "Email Address" to add AKO email or civilian email address. If you forget your pin a temporary PIN can be emailed to you usually within 15 minutes. (note - if you  request a tempoary PIN via email on Sunday, you may not receive email until Monday).
  • Select "Personal Settings" to change PIN or Login ID and view Customer Support contact.

 

IF YOU CHANGE BANKS, a NEW SF 1199a verified by the bank is required. Also, select "Net Pay EFT" from menu to update bank information.

 

—————

How do I get my W-2 for the National Guard?

    To get your W-2 for the National Guard login to your MyPay Account. Don't know how to get there or can't remember your PIN? =Check out our FAQ "How do I log into my AKO/MyPay Account?"

—————

How do I apply for Tuition Assistance?

Please see the tuition assistance link for information on applying for TA. Contact your Recruiter with additional questions.

—————

How can I get promoted?

 

Detachment IV, Company A

Warrior Promotion Eligibility Criteria

Promotion from E-1/PVT to E-2/PV2**

 

~ Stripes for Skills: Testing will occur each month in RED, WHITE AND BLUE phases. You may complete the exam online by logging onto STRM website: https://smtclms.pec.ngb.army.mil/index.cfm with your AKO username and password. Select RFP Stripes for Skills. Provide certificate to SGT Brown. Complete full APFT, pass each category scoring minimum 60% in each event, and D&C at drill, prior to shipping to BCT. For more details call your RRNCO.

 

~ Time in Service/Time in Grade (TIS/TIG): Six (6) months from BCT ship date (must have shipped). Or upon return from BCT/AIT if at training more than six (6) months and not promoted by training base.

 

~ College Credits: Minimum 24 credit hours (36 quarter hrs) at an accredited institution (must provide transcripts).

 

~ Stripes for Buddies (SFB): Refer one (1) qualified person who enlists into the ARNG prior to you shipping to BCT.

 

~ JROTC: Completed one (1) year JROTC (must provide transcripts).

 

~ SROTC: Completed MS1 of Senior ROTC (must provide transcripts).

 

~ Boy Scouts: Awarded the “Boy Scout Eagle Certificate” as a member of the Boy Scouts of America.

 

~ Girl Scouts: Awarded the “Girl Scout Gold Award” as a member of the Girl Scouts of America.

  **All promotions are subject to MSG approval. You must be satisfactorily attending and participating at drill to be eligible for promotion.**                                                

 

 

Promotion from E-1/PVT or E-2/PV2 to E-3/PFC

 

~ Time in Service/Time in Grade (TIS/TIG): Twelve (12) months from BCT ship date (must have shipped) and four (4) months TIG.

 

~ College Credits: Minimum 48 credit hours (72 quarter hrs) at an accredited institution (must provide transcripts).

 

~ Stripes for Buddies (SFB): Refer two (2) qualified people who enlist into the ARNG prior to you shipping to BCT..

 

~ JROTC: Completed one (3) years JROTC (must provide transcripts).

 

~ SROTC: Completed MS2 of Senior ROTC (must provide transcripts).

 

~ Vocational Training: Complete at least 18 months of post-secondary vocational-technical training and receive an official transcript/certificate.

 

~ Refer one (1) qualified Registered Nurse (RN) or Medical Doctor (MD) who enlists into the ARNG.

 

Promotion to E-4/SPC

~ College: Completed a degree producing program of at least (4) years in duration and received an official certificate (must provide transcripts).

 

~TIS/TIG: Two (2) years from BCT Ship date. This type of promotion can only be done once you are released from RSP and are satisfactorily drilling with your unit.

 

    

**All promotions are subject to MSG approval. You must be satisfactorily attending and participating at drill to be eligible for promotion. **

—————

What do I do if I have a question about my pay or I didn't recieve my pay for drill?

    Remember that it can take up to two (2) weeks for drill pay to process. After this initial 2 weeks, if you have not recieved your pay there is a problem and you need to call you recruiter. Have your MyPay account information ready, this is the first place they will have to look. Don't know your AKO/MyPay account info? Please see our FAQ "How do I Log on to my AKO/MyPay Account" for instructions on how to set this up.

—————

What do I need to bring with me to drill?

Picture ID

Personal hygiene items (for after PT)

Your ACU's or other approved uniform (NG t-shirt, plain blue jeans, socks and tennis shoes) for after PT.

Water Bottle

Battle Book (with a black ink pen)

 

—————

What can I NOT bring with me to drill?

Remember that the Morrisville Armory is federal property and all laws applicable to a federal building apply. The following needs to be left at home or in your car during drill:

Electronic devices (i.e. cell phones, pagers, laptops ect)

Tobacco products (these can not be used at any time during drill hours or inside the facility gates)

Weapons of any kind can not be brought on the facility (You will be subject to local, federal agencies and/or UCMJ action if caught with any type of weapon)

 

—————

As a female warrior, what is the policy for my appearance at drill?

Extreme, eccentric, or trendy haircuts or hairstyles are not authorized. If soldiers use dyes, tints, or bleaches,
they must choose those that result in natural hair colors. Colors that detract from a professional military appearance are prohibited. Therefore, soldiers should avoid using colors that result in an extreme appearance. Applied hair colors that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, purple, blue, pink, green, orange, bright (fire-engine) red, and fluorescent or neon colors. It is the responsibility of leaders to use good judgment in determining if applied colors are acceptable, based upon the overall effect on soldiers’ appearance.
Soldiers who have a texture of hair that does not part naturally may cut a part into the hair. The part will be one
straight line, not slanted or curved, and will fall in the area where the soldier would normally part the hair. Soldiers will not cut designs into their hair or scalp.

 

Female haircuts will conform to the following standards.
(a) Females will ensure their hair is neatly groomed, that the length and bulk of the hair are not excessive, and that
the hair does not present a ragged, unkempt, or extreme appearance. Likewise, trendy styles that result in shaved
portions of the scalp (other than the neckline) or designs cut into the hair are prohibited. Females may wear braids and
cornrows as long as the braided style is conservative, the braids and cornrows lie snugly on the head, and any hairholding devices comply with the standards in 1–8a(3)(d) below. Dreadlocks (unkempt, twisted, matted individual parts of hair) are prohibited in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty. Hair will not fall over the eyebrows or extend below the bottom edge of the collar at any time during normal activity or when standing in formation. Long hair that falls naturally below the bottom edge of the collar, to include braids, will be neatly and inconspicuously fastened or pinned, so no free-hanging hair is visible.
This includes styles worn with the physical fitness uniform/improved physical fitness uniform (PFU/IPFU).


(b) Styles that are lopsided or distinctly unbalanced are prohibited. Ponytails, pigtails, or braids that are not secured
to the head (allowing hair to hang freely), widely spaced individual hanging locks, and other extreme styles that
protrude from the head are prohibited. Extensions, weaves, wigs, and hairpieces are authorized; however, these
additions must have the same general appearance as the individual’s natural hair. Additionally, any wigs, extensions,
hairpieces, or weaves must comply with the grooming policies set forth in this paragraph.
(c) Females will ensure that hairstyles do not interfere with proper wear of military headgear and protective masks
or equipment at any time . When headgear is worn, the hair will not extend below the bottom edge of the front of the headgear, nor will it extend below the bottom edge of the collar.
(d) Hair-holding devices are authorized only for the purpose of securing the hair. Soldiers will not place hairholding devices in the hair for decorative purposes. All hair-holding devices must be plain and of a color as close to the soldier’s hair as is possible or clear. Authorized devices include, but are not limited to, small, plain scrunchies (elastic hair bands covered with material), barrettes, combs, pins, clips, rubber bands, and hair bands. Devices that are conspicuous, excessive, or decorative are prohibited. Some examples of prohibited devices include, but are not limited to, large, lacy scrunchies; beads, bows, or claw clips; clips, pins, or barrettes with butterflies, flowers, sparkles, gems, or scalloped edges; and bows made from hairpieces.
(e) Soldiers may not wear hairnets unless they are required for health or safety reasons, or in the performance of
duties (such as those of a cook). No other type of hair covering is authorized in lieu of the hairnet. The commander
will provide the hairnet to the soldier at no cost.
 

b. Cosmetics.
(1) General. As with hairstyles, the requirement for standards regarding cosmetics is necessary to maintain uniformity
and to avoid an extreme or unmilitary appearance. Males are prohibited from wearing cosmetics, to include nail
polish. Females are authorized to wear cosmetics with all uniforms, provided they are applied conservatively and in
good taste and complement the uniform. Leaders at all levels must exercise good judgment in the enforcement of this
policy.
(a) Females may wear cosmetics if they are conservative and complement the uniform and their complexion.
Eccentric, exaggerated, or trendy cosmetic styles and colors, to include makeup designed to cover tattoos, are
inappropriate with the uniform and are prohibited. Permanent makeup, such as eyebrow or eyeliner, is authorized as
long as the makeup conforms to the standards outlined above.
(b) Females will not wear shades of lipstick and nail polish that distinctly contrast with their complexion, that
detract from the uniform, or that are extreme. Some examples of extreme colors include, but are not limited to, purple,
gold, blue, black, white, bright (fire-engine) red, khaki, camouflage colors, and fluorescent colors. Soldiers will not
apply designs to nails or apply two-tone or multi-tone colors to nails.
(2) Females will comply with the cosmetics policy while in any military uniform or while in civilian clothes on
duty.

 

—————

As a male warrior, what is the policy for my appearance at drill?

Extreme, eccentric, or trendy haircuts or hairstyles are not authorized. If soldiers use dyes, tints, or bleaches, they must choose those that result in natural hair colors. Colors that detract from a professional military appearance are prohibited. Therefore, soldiers should avoid using colors that result in an extreme appearance. Applied hair colors that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, purple, blue, pink, green, orange, bright (fire-engine) red, and fluorescent or neon colors. It is the responsibility of leaders to use good judgment in determining if applied colors are acceptable, based upon the overall effect on soldiers’ appearance.
Soldiers who have a texture of hair that does not part naturally may cut a part into the hair. The part will be one straight line, not slanted or curved, and will fall in the area where the soldier would normally part the hair. Soldiers will not cut designs into their hair or scalp.

 

 

Males:

Male haircuts will conform to the following standards.

(a) The hair on top of the head must be neatly groomed. The length and bulk of the hair may not be excessive or
present a ragged, unkempt, or extreme appearance. The hair must present a tapered appearance. A tapered appearance
is one where the outline of the soldier’s hair conforms to the shape of the head, curving inward to the natural
termination point at the base of the neck. When the hair is combed, it will not fall over the ears or eyebrows, or touch
the collar, except for the closely cut hair at the back of the neck. The block-cut fullness in the back is permitted to a
moderate degree, as long as the tapered look is maintained. In all cases, the bulk or length of hair may not interfere
with the normal wear of headgear (see para 1–8a(1)(a), above) or protective masks or equipment. Males are not
authorized to wear braids, cornrows, or dreadlocks (unkempt, twisted, matted, individual parts of hair) while in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty.
Hair that is clipped closely or shaved to the scalp is authorized.


(b) Males will keep sideburns neatly trimmed. Sideburns may not be flared; the base of the sideburn will be a cleanshaven, horizontal line. Sideburns will not extend below the lowest part of the exterior ear opening.


(c) Males will keep their face clean-shaven when in uniform or in civilian clothes on duty.
Mustaches are permitted;
if worn, males will keep mustaches neatly trimmed, tapered, and tidy. Mustaches will not present a chopped off or
bushy appearance, and no portion of the mustache will cover the upper lip line or extend sideways beyond a vertical
line drawn upward from the corners of the mouth (see figure 1–1). Handlebar mustaches, goatees, and beards are not
authorized. 

 

 Fingernails: All personnell will keep their fingernails clean and neatly trimmed. Males will keep fingernails trimmed as to not extend beyond the fingertip.

—————

Can I wear jewelry to drill?

The only jewelry authorized is a wedding band and/or sports watch.

—————

Can I get a tattoo after I enlist?

No, not before you have completed all of your training.

 

 

After you have graduated AIT the policy is as follows:

Tattoo policy as per AR 670-1:
(1) Tattoos or brands anywhere on the head, face, and neck above the class A uniform collar are prohibited.
(2) Tattoos or brands that are extremist, indecent, sexist, or racist are prohibited, regardless of location on the body,
as they are prejudicial to good order and discipline within units.
(a) Extremist tattoos or brands are those affiliated with, depicting, or symbolizing extremist philosophies, organizations,
or activities. Extremist philosophies, organizations, and activities are those which advocate racial, gender or
ethnic hatred or intolerance; advocate, create, or engage in illegal discrimination based on race, color, gender, ethnicity,
religion, or national origin; or advocate violence or other unlawful means of depriving individual rights under the U.S.
Constitution, Federal, or State law (see para 4–12, AR 600–20).
(b) Indecent tattoos or brands are those that are grossly offensive to modesty, decency, or propriety; shock the moral
sense because of their vulgar, filthy, or disgusting nature or tendency to incite lustful thought; or tend reasonably to
corrupt morals or incite libidinous thoughts.
(c) Sexist tattoos or brands are those that advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on gender,
but that may not meet the same definition of “indecent.”
(d) Racist tattoos or brands are those that advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on race,
ethnicity, or national origin.

—————

What do I do when I graduate BCT/AIT

As soon as you graduate and are released to return home you must contact SGT Brown in order to set up an appointment to in process. You must, by regulation, in process within 72 hours. Contact SGT Brown to schedule an appointment and be prepared to have your own transportation. Don't expect that your recruiter will be able to bring you, this is your responsibility. Once you've set up an appointment ensure that you come in ACU's and bring all of the paperwork you left the training base with and all clothing and/or equipment that you have been issued since enlisting. Every item must be present for a show down inspection. Failure to bring items will result in counseling and a return appointment on another day.

—————

What do I do if I get a law violation after I've enlisted?

IF you receive ANY law violations after you have enlisted at MEPS you MUST inform your Recruiter immediately. We must complete a new police record check and submit it to MEPS prior to your ship date. You can not ship with an open law violation(s) regardless of the charge(s).  Even though you may have someone taking care of the charge (like a lawyer) we must know about it so we can do our part and you can ship as scheduled.

—————

What do I need to do if I go to the doctor/hospital/urgent care after I enlist?

If you go the doctor, hospital or urgent care for any reason after enlistment you must contact you recruiter as soon as possible to let them know why. No matter how insignificant the issue may seem to you, we must be made aware. Additionally, you must provide RSP with complete documentation of the visit (ie your entire chart) not just a note from the doctor clearing you to ship. This information will be sent to MEPS for the MEPS doctor to review and ensure that you are still healthy enough to ship to training.

—————

I'm getting ready to ship...What do I need to know?

 

Remember that you must stay in the hotel the night before you are scheduled to ship out to training. Contact your Recruiter for information on the time they will pick you up.

What to wear: You need to wear long pants, sleeved shirt, full coverage underwear (females - sports bra) socks and tennis shoes.

What to bring: You will need your original SSN card, Military ID (if you have one) and Valid Drivers License or other form of picture ID. You will need your check book and ATM card (make sure you know your PIN!) and at least $25 in cash (no more than $50) If you have graduated high school since you enlisted bring a copy of your diploma. Females - If you are taking prescription BC ensure that you bring a current original copy of your prescription with you to training.

If you are married you need to bring a copy of your spouses picture ID and SSN card.

Have a home mortgage or are renting/leasing? You need to bring a noterized copy of your mortgage/rental/lease agreement with you to training.

Ensure you bring an extra set of civilian clothing (following the guidelines above) and a personal hygiene kit. Males - don't forget a shave kit.

Remember that you will receive an advance in your pay to purchase enough items to make it all the way thought BCT. You do not need to bring it all with you. Just enough to last about 1 week.

What NOT to bring: Any over the counter medications; weapons of any kind; food; pornographic materials; perfume/cologne sprays, lotions or oils; cosmetics; expensive razors or electric shavers. In addition we recommend you do not bring jewelry, it may get lost or stolen.

—————

I need health/dental insurance.....am I covered by the National Guard?

Only when you are on orders (like at training or on drill weekends). On drill weekends you are only covered for injuries obtained during training. While at BCT/AIT you are 100% covered by Tricare. If you would like to purchase health coverege for when you are not on orders please visit the "Links" tab and check out Tricare Reserve Select and the Tricare Dental Program websites for more information.

—————

Can I wear my uniform when I am not at drill?

    No. You are only permited to wear your uniform when on duty. Once released from duty you are to return home immediately and chage into civilian clothing.

—————

Where do I go to get a Military ID Card?

To get your Military ID card (also known as a Common Access Card or CAC) please contact the ID card facility. Ensure that you take a picture ID and another form of identification with you like another state issued ID, passport or SSN card.

 

Hours: for either appointments or walk-ins are

Monday - Friday
8:30am - 11:00am 
1:00pm - 4:00pm


 

To make an appointment to have a card or cards made, please contact the ID Card Office at 919-664-6250 (DSN:  582-9250).  Recommended to enroll spouse/dependents into DEERS.  Bring your spouse with - SSN card; Driver's License and Marriage Certificate. Bring your dependents with - Birth Certificate and SSN card. 

—————

Do I have to get a military ID card before I ship?

Only if you are an GED+ enlistment are you required to have a Militay ID card prior to shipping to Camp Robinson. Otherwise, you will be issued one at the training base. If you get a Military ID card prior to shipping however, you MUST take that card with you to training.

—————

Do my spouse/dependants need a military ID?

Your spouse will need a Dependent Military ID card. Also, children 10 years old & up will need one, children under the age of 10 do not. It is highly recommended that your spouse/dependants have their ID's before you ship to training and enrolled into DEERS program. Call ID Card Facilty for appointment 919-664-6250 . Walk-in's welcome.

What to bring:

Spouse - Driver's License; SSN card and Marriage Certificate

Dependent - Birth Certificate and SSN Card

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hours of Operation:  Monday - Friday

                                     8:00 - 12:00

                                     1:00 - 4:00

 

IF your spouse/dependent looses their Dependent Military ID card while you are at the training base, it is highly recommended they have a Power of Attorney. This will assist them in being able to get a new ID card issued. You can contact the JAG office 919-664-6000 for assistance with your POA.

 

 

—————

Photocoping of Military ID card???

Photocopying of ID cards.pdf (195,2 kB)

 

Photocopying of US Government Identification is a violation of Title 18, US Code Part I, Chapter 33,
Section 701
and punishable by both fine and/or imprisonment.

Medical establishments (i.e. doctor’s office, hospitals, etc…) are allowed take a copy for the purpose of filing insurance claims; and other government agencies in the performance of official government business.

See above Security Bullentin for further details.

—————