yes, historically if possible. This means a command structure, you earn ranks and medals (if you are good you lead, no noobs leading, strong leadership values required), your battle unit (usually a regiment) has vehicles assigned strategically, etc.
We play Friday battles but this doesnt mean you have to attend them all. Just say when you can or not in forums and this is everything what it's required to do. Nothing more. And you don't have to play all 6h either, as much as you want. Besides Thursday there's a training, if you attend you will have priority to start playing the first round, actually it's recommended to attend (100% custom maps, to be prepared)