United States National Guard facts for kids

The United States National Guard is a special group of people who serve both the United States Army and the United States Air Force. Think of them as a part-time military force ready to help their state or country when needed. They are like an emergency army for the United States.

Seal of the United States National Guard

Each of the U.S. States has its own National Guard. Usually, the state government controls them. But when there's a big emergency or a need for national defense, the United States government can call them into action.

What is the National Guard?

The National Guard is made up of soldiers and airmen. These people live and work in their communities. They train regularly, usually one weekend a month and two weeks a year. This allows them to have regular jobs or go to school while also serving their country.

Two Main Parts

The National Guard has two main parts. These parts are managed by the National Guard Bureau. This bureau is part of the United States Department of Defense.

• The Air National Guard is part of the United States Air Force. They mostly work on air defense jobs. This means they help protect the skies.
• The Army National Guard is part of the United States Army. They do jobs on the ground. This includes helping during disasters or supporting military missions.

Both groups are important for keeping people safe. They help their local communities and the entire country.

How the National Guard Helps

The National Guard helps in many ways. They respond to natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, or wildfires. They can help with rescue efforts and deliver supplies. They also help keep peace and order during emergencies.

Sometimes, National Guard members are called to serve overseas. They work with other parts of the U.S. military. They help protect the country's interests around the world.

Images for kids

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  Seal of the National Guard Bureau, 2013 to present

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  First muster of the East Regiment (present-day Massachusetts Army National Guard) in Salem, Massachusetts Bay Colony, Spring 1637

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  A National Guardsman in 1917

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  Following the 1992 Los Angeles riots, 4,000 National Guardsmen patrolled the city.

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  The National Guard Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.

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  An Army National Guardsman of the 1st Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment in Parun, Afghanistan. Note that he is wearing a 10th Mountain Division Former Wartime Service SSI.

See also

In Spanish: Guardia Nacional de los Estados Unidos para niños