What is the National Guard?

The Army National Guard (ARNG) is the primary United States federal and state military reserve force.

The group is organized by the US Army and US Air Force.

Every US state and territory has a National Guard. The Army National Guard is divided into subordinate units stationed in each of the 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia, and operates under their respective governors.

The Army National Guard may be called up for active duty by the state or territorial governors to help respond to domestic emergencies and disasters, such as those caused by hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, as well as civil disorder.

The District of Columbia Army National Guard is a federal militia, controlled by the President of the United States with authority delegated to the Secretary of Defense, and through him to the Secretary of the Army.

Guard units may also be ordered into active duty for up to two years by the US president during national emergency.

The National Guard enlistment is voluntary.