Some people have termed the National Guard the “Rodney Dangerfield” of the military---it’s the branch of the U.S. Armed Forces that “Don’t get no respect!”
Never deserving of second-class status, I nevertheless believe that pecking order no longer exists—or at least is not as prevalent—since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
In the aftermath of 9-11, it was often National Guard units that deployed multiple times and bore a huge burden.
While the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines may have good-naturedly chided the National Guard for duty on American soil (while the aforementioned branches fought on foreign shores), this distinction evaporated in the so-called “War on Terror”. Everyone went abroad.
It was on this date in 1636 that the Massachusetts Bay Colony authorized an organized militia—primarily to fend off Indian attacks. That humble beginning marked the birth of the Guard.
Today, the National Guard is unique in its role as a reserve military force. It is comprised of “citizen soldiers”, who pursue a civilian career and then serve part-time.
Enjoy this short video on the Guard—and their mission:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yE7dKlHL_5w
Whether it's fighting a war overseas---or rescuing Americans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the U.S. National Guard has been a vital part of the fabric of our country—and indispensable to safeguarding the freedoms that we enjoy.
If you are a member of the Guard—or a veteran of National Guard service, we salute you today.
Happy 375th birthday, National Guard!!!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@cumulus.com
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