A UNIQUE DUAL MISSION

The National Guard Soldier’s mission is truly unique in that the men and women who serve in the Guard are charged with serving their communities in times of natural calamities and disasters and to be “Battle Ready” to defend our Nation. No other military service in our nation carries this dual mission. In times of peace when a natural disaster occurs or endangerment to citizens is present, the Governor of the State can “Call out the Guard” to protect property or secure the safety its citizens. When needed, the President of the United States can “mobilize” the Guard to provide support for our military forces to accomplish a wartime mission.

The Guard’s State Mission
With National Guard units in cities and towns all across the United States, Guard members can be rapidly mobilized to respond to any natural disaster threatening their community or their state. When they get the call, these Citizen-Soldiers really do become Heroes; saving lives, protecting property and helping communities get back on their feet. Not forgetting the dangers of a world threatened by terrorists, the Governor can also call out the Guard when needed to provide protection as many did during 911.

The Guard’s Wartime Mission
The men and women who serve in the Army National Guard are just like you. They come from every walk of life and from every part of the country. What brings them together to serve is their love of country and community and their commitment to all Americans. Today the Guard makes up over half of the Army’s combat power and as in times past, when their nation needs them they are prepared to go. Iraq and Afghanistan are now the forward outposts where our Citizen Soldiers stand in the defense of liberty and freedom for newly emerging democracies.