The National Guard

The National Guard is one branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. The National Guard consists of both an Army National Guard and Air National Guard component. The National Guard is composed of reserve forces — civilians who serve their country on a part time basis. Each state and territory has its own National Guard as provided by the United States Constitution.

Please go to the National Guard Virtual Armory’s web page and learn more about the program.

The mission of the National Guard

The Guard has a unique dual mission, with both Federal and State responsibilities. During peacetime, Guard forces are commanded by the Governor through a State Adjutant General. The Governor can call the Guard into action during local or statewide emergencies, such as storms, drought, and civil disturbances, to name a few. In addition, the President of the United States can activate the National Guard to participate in Federal missions. Examples of this are the many Guard units that have deployed to support operations in Bosnia and Air Guard units that are currently being activated to support NATO efforts in Kosovo. When federalized, Guard units are commanded by the Commander in Chief of the theatre in which they are operating.