What is the difference between Guard and Reserve?

While there are other meanings for the word ''Reserve'', it is also used in the military to refer to a body of troops that are usually stationed in the rear of an army, usually to give supports to them as occasion may require. Initially, their major work was to support the medical division of the army so that effective services can be provided. On the other hand, the guard in the military also refers to a special squad responsible for protecting something. When you compare the two, specifically by looking at when both were created, the guard has existed long before the first reserve was created in 1908.

The activities of the reserves are limited; in fact, members of this group might have other jobs apart from the ones given in the military. In contrast, the guard usually works independently and has more roles. Unlike the guards that can be deployed to calm civil riots or crises, the reserves are rarely used for this.

Both guards and reserves play an essential role in the nation’s defense. However, they are not always active in duty, and this is why they receive part-time training, pay, and other benefits. There is a tremendous extent of flexibility in the demands made on people joining guards or reserves; however, the opportunity for advancement is limited. The primary function of reserves and guards is to support a reserve component to active duty soldiers.

The National Guard is the militia that originates in states but is chiefly financed by the federal government. The state or Federal Governments can call the guards and the Reserve to duty and bring them into service to help with emergencies. The Reserve continues to be a purely federal force, and the highest chain of command is the president of the country. Reserves are the first to be sent on duty abroad to defend the interests of the nation.