Become an Officer

LOUISIANA OFFICER CANDIDATE SCHOOL
The kind of training you get at Officer Candidate School can’t be bought. You have to earn it. It takes hard work, commitment, and drive. But when all is said and done, you’ll have an education that’s worth its weight in gold.

Learning to listen carefully is one of the first things you’re taught at OCS. And while you may think you’ve been through all that already, the in-depth training you get at OCS takes it many steps further. You’ll learn to reason, make decisions for yourself, and then command with the self-confidence and assurance of an officer.

Leadership means more than issuing orders. A leader is charged with inspiring trust and confidence so others will follow you under any circumstances. It takes a special person with special abilities. One who is mentally and physically prepared to face the constant challenge of command.

Besides the pride you’ll feel and the respect you’ll gain, becoming an officer has many tangible benefits, too. OCS candidates are promoted to E5 upon acceptance into the academy. OCS graduates are commissioned as second lieutenants in the Army National Guard, with a state and federally recognized commission, valid in any state or on active duty. Officers are among a select few with the responsibility of leadership and the authority and freedom to do things on their own. When you’re an officer, you have a greater voice in the operation of the Guard.

Your educational opportunities are greatly expanded, too. In addition to branch training, as an officer you also may be eligible for specialized training including ranger school and flight school. Additionally, the advancements you make in the Guard can help make you a success in your civilian life. As a Guard officer, you’ve proven yourself as responsible, reliable, ambitious and self-confident. These are traits that future employers look for in management candidates.

Officer Candidate School allows you to be in charge for a change, making you responsible and accountable. No more wondering what you’re going to do next. Here every minute is utilized. You’ll go home satisfied that you have accomplished something that only a few men and women have aspired to do; graduate from Louisiana’s own Officer Candidate School.