Is it practically guaranteed I'll be deployed to Afghanistan if I join the Army or National Guard, even in a non-combat related MOS?

Joining the Army or the National Guard does not guarantee a deployment to Afghanistan, especially given the current context.

As of recent years, the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan has significantly decreased following the withdrawal of forces in 2021. Here are some key points to consider:

Current Deployments

The U.S. has largely withdrawn its forces from Afghanistan, so the likelihood of being deployed there is very low compared to the past3.

National Guard Deployments

While National Guard units have been deployed to various conflict zones, including Afghanistan, the deployments are typically based on specific unit rotations and mission requirements. The National Guard often serves in support roles, and deployments can vary widely depending on the unit's mission and the current operational needs15.

Non-Combat Related MOS

Even during the height of operations in Afghanistan, not all Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) were deployed to combat zones. Many non-combat related MOS roles, such as medical, communications, or administrative positions, could be stationed in various locations, including within the United States or other non-combat zones.

In summary, joining the Army or National Guard does not guarantee a deployment to Afghanistan, especially with the current reduced military presence there. Deployments are based on a variety of factors, including the specific needs of the military and the role of your unit.