In time of war or national emergency, or in support of any military operation worldwide, the president can mobilize units of the Pennsylvania National Guard into active federal service. Pennsylvania units have taken part in every conflict America has faced, from the Revolutionary War through Operations New Dawn/Enduring Freedom, as well as ongoing peacekeeping missions in Kosovo, Bosnia, Egypt and elsewhere. Since September 11, 2001, more than 17,000 of our Soldiers and Airmen have deployed in support of the Global Contingencies.

In peacetime, the governor serves as commander in chief of the Pennsylvania National Guard, exercising control through the adjutant general. In the event of natural disaster or civil emergency, the governor can order Guard personnel and equipment into service to assist state and local authorities. For example, in September 2005, in the wake of the Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, 2,500 of our soldiers and airmen were deployed to the Gulf Coast within a few days of the storm to provide communications, humanitarian assistance and force protection.

Additionally, the National Guard continuously offers beneficial support to the civilian community. The counterdrug program, for example, provides trained people and specialized equipment to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal drugs.

All across the state, Guard members serve as role models as well as community volunteers and civic leaders – living examples of citizenship at its best.

Quick Facts

• The PA National Guard is one of the top ten employers in the commonwealth. About 3, 500 of our members serve full-time; the remaining 15,500 are “traditional” Guard members who train on a part-time basis while pursuing a civilian education or career.
• The PA National Guard is one of the largest National Guards in the nation.
•  With armories and air bases in some 90 communities – in 52 counties – our presence blankets the commonwealth.