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U.S. National Guard
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U.S. National Guard

military organization, United States
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Last Updated: • Article History
Space Force, governors at odds over plans to pull talent from National Guard units • May 15, 2025, 4:57 PM ET (AP)
Hegseth's plan to cut senior military jobs could hit more than 120 high-ranking officers • May 13, 2025, 4:11 PM ET (AP)
Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King enters 2026 Republican race for US Senate • May 12, 2025, 10:41 AM ET (AP)
Hegseth directs 20% cut to top military leadership positions • May 5, 2025, 8:02 PM ET (AP)

U.S. National Guard, reserve group organized by the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. Every state and territory of the United States has a National Guard, which can be called on by state governors during emergencies including riots and natural disasters. Guard units may also be ordered into active duty for up to two years by the U.S. president in the event of a national emergency. Enlistment in the National Guard is voluntary.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Maren Goldberg.