Understanding the Dual Role of the National Guard

September 6, 2025

Let’s review some U.S. history and the designated dual role of the National Guard.

What Is the National Guard?
The National Guard is a unique component of the U.S. military with a dual role: it serves both state governments and the federal government.

At the state level, Guard units are under the command of each state’s governor and can be activated for emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or other local crises.

Federally, the President can “federalize” Guard units to serve as part of the U.S. armed forces in national emergencies, overseas missions, or other authorized operations.

The National Guard is organized into two branches aligned with the armed services: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard.

Key Responsibilities & Missions
● Disaster response & emergency assistance: Guardsmen are often mobilized to help with hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other state emergencies.

● Support to civil authorities: States may call on the Guard to assist local law enforcement or maintain order, under strict legal limits.
● Overseas deployment: Guard units may be mobilized for federal missions abroad, including war zones and peacekeeping operations.
● Domestic security: The Guard has increasingly been used for border protection and federal property defense in recent years.

Structure, Size & Service
There are over 400,000 Guard members across all states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories.
Most serve part-time, training one weekend per month plus two additional weeks per year.
Even under state control, Guard units must meet federal standards for organization, training, and readiness.
The National Guard Bureau serves as the liaison between state forces and the Department of Defense.