What is the US National Guard?

The US National Guard operates under a distinctive dual-command structure: state governors activate units under Title 32 to respond to domestic emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest, and election security, while the president can federalize forces under Title 10 for overseas deployments in conflicts and peacekeeping missions.

Tracing its lineage to colonial militias from 1636, today’s Guard comprises over 400,000 members serving nationwide and supporting frontline military operations abroad.

A recent controversial deployment of 2,000 troops to Los Angeles during protests highlighted the balance—and tension—between state and federal authority, illustrating how the Guard adapts to diverse crisis demands.