What Does the National Guard Do When Deployed?
The National Guard, also known as the State Defense Forces, is a part of the US Army and Air Force that has two main roles: domestic protection and overseas deployment. In this article, we will focus on what the National Guard does when deployed abroad.
Domestic Roles
Before discussing deployments, it’s essential to understand the National Guard’s domestic roles. As part of its homeland defense mission, the National Guard:
- Conducts search and rescue missions during natural disasters
- Assists local law enforcement during civil disturbances
- Supports border security efforts
- Participates in joint terrorism task forces
- Assists in responding to domestic emergencies
Oversseas Deployments
When deployed overseas, the National Guard plays a critical role in supporting both domestic and international missions. Some of the tasks they perform include:
• Combat Operations: National Guard units have seen combat in a number of conflicts, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve (ISIL). They fight alongside active-duty military members and conduct a range of military operations, such as security patrols, raids, and convoys.
Examples of National Guard Contributions to Combat Operations
- During Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2011), the National Guard fought in various roles, including convoy security, patrolling streets, and conducting detainee operations.
- During Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2014) in Afghanistan, National Guard units provided security for outposts, conducted patrols, and supported local security forces.
• Humanitarian Assistance: National Guard teams can be deployed to assist with humanitarian crises, providing:
+ Medical and emergency response support
+ Food and water distributions
+ Shelter construction
+ Decontamination and sanitation services
+ Support to the reconstruction of critical infrastructure, such as roads and utilitiesExamples of Humanitarian Assistance
- The California National Guard deployed humanitarian aid teams to the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
- The Texas National Guard supported Hurricane Katrina relief efforts in 2005, providing food, water, and medical assistance.
Training and Capacity Building: The National Guard also:
• Trains host nation forces: National Guard troops often train foreign forces on tactics, techniques, and procedures, enhancing those countries’ military capabilities and security.
• Improves infrastructure: National Guard units can be deployed to assist in the construction, renovation, or repair of military facilities, roads, and other critical infrastructure, increasing the host nation’s ability to support military and humanitarian efforts.
Key Statistics
According to the National Guard, some key statistics on deployment and operations include:
- In 2020, 14,000 National Guard members were on active duty, with many more serving in reserve.
- National Guard forces have deployed to over 190 countries since 1950.
- In recent years, National Guard members have served over 500,000 individual months in Afghanistan alone.
Conclusion
When deployed, the National Guard plays a critical role in supporting both domestic and international security. From combat operations and humanitarian assistance to training foreign forces and improving infrastructure, National Guard members have deployed around the world, carrying out a range of challenging tasks. As part of the US military, they stand ready to respond to a wide range of mission requirements, from crisis situations to long-term stabilization operations.
