Today is the birthday of the U.S. National Guard, which was established in 1636. It is the oldest military organization in the United States and was founded as a citizen force organized to protect families and towns from hostile attacks.
Members of the National Guard are generally called up to respond to state-level emergencies, such as natural disasters. Many National Guard soldiers hold civilian jobs or attend college while maintaining their military training part time.
The men and women of the Army and Air National Guards train regularly, generally two days a month with a longer training annually. Service for the Guard may not be a full-time job, but its demands require a lifestyle of commitment and sacrifice.
I would like to recognize the National Guard Armories in Galva and Kewanee, which are located in the 93rd District. Thank you to all of the men and women there for your service, and happy birthday to the U.S. National Guard!