What's the deal with the National Guard?

Hey folks! As I'm exploring my post-high school options, I've been trying to understand more about the military. Specifically, I'm curious about the National Guard. I've heard about it, but what does it really do and under which military branch does it fall under?

Hello! The National Guard is a unique arm of the U.S. military due to its dual nature, and it's great that you're seeking to learn more about it! Members of the National Guard hold civilian jobs or attend school while also maintaining their military training part-time.

The National Guard falls under both state and federal jurisdiction. When National Guard units are not under federal control, the governor is the commander-in-chief of the units in their state. The governor can call them to assist in state-level emergencies such as natural disasters or civil unrest.

However, the National Guard can also be activated by the federal government, usually with the president's order, for national emergencies or to supplement regular U.S. military forces. During these times, the National Guard members perform active duty services just like full-time service members.

In terms of branches, the National Guard is split into two primary sections: the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, which are part of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force, respectively. This means that serving in the National Guard can provide an opportunity to train and serve without committing full time to active duty, while still being a part of nationwide military efforts when needed.

I hope this provides a clearer picture of what the National Guard is and how it fits within the larger U.S. military structure. Feel free to conduct further research and talk to current or former servicemen and servicewomen to get a more comprehensive understanding.