You might frequently hear stories about Special Ops or Navy ships, or maybe you've had the opportunity to watch the Air Force Blue Angles practice or perform. Sometimes in the middle of all that news, it can feel like the National Guard doesn’t always get the recognition they deserve. 

However, its history is long and distinguished and they deserve to be in the spotlight too! The National Guard has been a pillar of support for the other branches of the armed forces from the very beginning and is still an active protector of our country today.

December 13, 1636, marks the beginning of the organized militia and in honor of their birthday, here area some lesser known facts about the National Guard.

1. The National Guard is actually older than the Army. These militias were used as early as 1636 to protect the British colonies. The U.S. Army wasn't formed until the beginning of the Revolutionary War in the late 1700's.

2. National Guard coined the term Minutemen during the American Revolution due to their rapid response ability.

3. The term "national guard" was popularized by Marquis de Lafayette to describe each state's militia, but it didn't become an official term until 1916.

4. The National Guard’s 19th and 20th Special Forces Groups are two of these elite units. Although these National Guard members serve part-time, they must complete all the same training as their active-duty counterparts to earn the distinction of wearing the green beret.

5. The National Guard is unique among the U.S. armed forces in that it can perform state as well as federal functions. The Guard is generally called up to respond to state-level emergencies, such as natural disasters. But, unlike most of the other military forces, it can also serve a domestic law enforcement role.

Although they aren't always recognized, The National Guard has played a pivotal role in our countries history, and continue to do so today. Thank you to all of those who serve and have served in any branch of the military! 

Support Your Troops

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