national Guard Essay -- essays research papers

What is The Pennsylvania Army National Guard? The Pennsylvania Army National Guard is a branch of the United States Army that is mostly used today for homeland security. Although the National Guard is not active like the Reserves or Active Duty Army, they still have the same requirements and same responsibility. More than 22,000 men and women make up the Pennsylvania National Guard and Air National Guard today. They reach from state quarters at Fort Indian Town Gap in Lebanon County to about 100 comunities in the commonwealth. Like all National Guard members they share the same responsibilities. For their federal mission, they are trained and equipped to join the active forces in the time of war or a national emergency. For their state mission, they respond to the orders of the governor, protecting the lives and property of people during man made and natural disasters. Their role extends further than floods, blizzards, and riots, everyday they work to clean up the enviorment, fighting to get rid of drugs and other illegal t hings on the streets, and they serve as role models to generations to come. With the National Guard today you can earn extra money for college, learn job skills that you can use out of the service, and feel better about yourself by serving your hometown and country. History of the National Guard The history of the Army National Guard began on December 13, 1636 when the Massachusetts Bay Colony organized three militia regiments to defend against the growing threat of the Pequot Indians. Patterned after the English Militia systems, all males between 16 and 60 Kessler 2 were obligated to own arms and take part in the defense of the community. The National Guard continues its historic mission of providing defense of the nation. The National Guard also fought many battles in the 20th century. The first war they were in during the 20th century was World War 1. From the streets of Harlem and other New York City neighborhoods came the African-American National... ...the advance into Iraq. Armed with the Multiple-Launch Rocket System, the Field Artillery men of this battalion provided accurate and devastating fire throughout the entire campaign. The rockets were so deadly; the Iraqi soldiers called them "steel rain." Today the Guard continues its vital peacekeeping effort in Southwest Asia. What it takes to be in the National Guard There are many requirements to be in the Army National Guard. The National Guard has physical, academic, and legal requirements that you must pass to join. You must first be in good physical shape and not have any major handicaps. The minimum age to join the National Guard is 17 years of age and a high school junior. If you are under the age of 18 you must have your parents consent. If you are not in high school you must have a high school diploma or GED. You must also score a high enough score on the ASVAB test. When you get your score you will be contacted by a recruiter to see what kind of job you want and can get by your score. You must also be a citizen of the United States and if you are an alien then you cannot get a job in the Army that requires a security clearance.