Established in 1636, December 13^th marks the 383^rd birthday of the U.S. National Guard. The National Guard is the oldest military organization in America, and its members serve during times of war and national emergency. Its mission is to equip, train, and deploy when needed in emergencies for contingencies around the world.

During the Revolutionary War, National Guard units were called Minutemen because of how quickly they responded. The nature of their service involves a concept some call being a “citizen soldier.”

Guard members join the military with all its responsibilities and privileges, while also maintaining a civilian job and a life outside the active duty military world. The National Guard plays a large role in our homeland security, global military operations, and the war on terror.

Being a member of the National Guard means being ready to put civilian careers on hold to train, deploy, and serve. The important role that the National Guard plays in the full-time Army and Air Force missions around the world is a crucial part of the Department of Defense’s planning for such operations.

Since the attacks on September 11, 2001, more than 650,000 National Guard members have been called on to serve at home and abroad.

Take time to thank and honor these brave men and women who have served and protected our country for centuries.