National Guard Memorial Museum facts for kids
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| Location | National Guard Memorial Building Washington, DC |
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| Type | Military museum |
| Collection size | 5600 square feet |
| Public transit access |   at Union Station |
The National Guard Memorial Museum is a special place in Washington, DC. It's a military museum that tells the amazing story of the National Guard of the United States. This museum is run by the National Guard Educational Foundation. You can find it in the northwest part of Washington, D.C., close to famous spots like the National Postal Museum and Union Station.
The museum covers a large area, about 5600 square feet. Inside, you'll discover six different themed areas. Each area shows a different part of the National Guard's history and what they do.
Discover the National Guard Museum
The National Guard Memorial Museum is a fantastic place to learn about the brave men and women who serve our country. It's part of the United States Army Museum System, which means it's an important museum for military history.
What is the National Guard?
The National Guard is a unique part of the United States armed forces. Unlike full-time soldiers, members of the National Guard are often called "citizen-soldiers." This means they have regular jobs and lives, but they also train regularly to be ready to help their communities and country.
They have two main jobs:
- Helping at home: When there are emergencies like hurricanes, floods, or wildfires, the National Guard is often the first to respond. They help people, deliver supplies, and keep communities safe.
- Supporting the military: They can also be called upon to serve alongside other military branches, like the Army or Air Force, in missions around the world.
The museum helps visitors understand the important role these citizen-soldiers have played throughout history.
Exploring the Museum's Galleries
The National Guard Memorial Museum has six main galleries. Each one focuses on a different time period or aspect of the National Guard's history. These galleries help you follow their journey from the very beginning to today.
The Militia Era
This section takes you back to the early days of America. Before there was a formal army, local groups of citizens called "militias" protected their towns. You'll learn how these early groups helped shape the country and how they were the first form of what we now call the National Guard.
The National Guard Comes of Age
This gallery shows how the National Guard grew and became more organized. It covers the period when they started to look more like the military force we know today. You'll see how they developed their training and structure.
The Citizen Soldier in World War II
During World War II, the National Guard played a huge role. Many of its members were called to serve overseas, fighting alongside other American forces. This section highlights their bravery and contributions during one of the biggest conflicts in history. You can see uniforms, equipment, and stories from this important time.
Cold War Era
After World War II, the world entered a period known as the Cold War. This gallery explores how the National Guard adapted to new challenges. They were ready to defend the country at home and abroad during this tense time.
National Guard in the Modern Era
This part of the museum brings you up to the present day. It shows how the National Guard continues to serve in modern times. This includes their responses to natural disasters, support for homeland security, and their missions in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. You'll see how they continue to protect and serve.
Closing Sequence
The final gallery helps visitors reflect on the overall history and importance of the National Guard. It brings together all the themes you've seen, leaving you with a strong understanding of these dedicated citizen-soldiers.
