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

military organization, United States
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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.