The National Guard Bureau is the federal agency responsible for the administration of the National Guard and the National Air Guard established by the United States Congress as a joint bureau of the Department of the Army and the Department of the Air Force. It was created by the Militia Act of 1903. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, elevated the National Guard to a joint function of the Department of Defense. The 2007 NDAA, from the previous year, elevated the chief of the National Guard Bureau from a lieutenant general to a four-star general. As a cornerstone of American defense, the National Guard Bureau (NGB) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation. This federal agency is charged with the critical task of overseeing the National Guard, ensuring our soldiers are equipped and prepared for missions on both domestic and international fronts. The NGB’s unique mission reflects the dual role of the National Guard, where soldiers serve as protectors of the homeland and as a vital reserve force for the US military in times of crisis.
The National Guard Bureau (NGB): Who, What, Where
The National Guard Bureau (NGB) is a vital element of American defense, serving as the federal agency tasked with administering the National Guard. Here’s a breakdown of the NGB’s core details:
Who Is The National Guard Bureau:
Federal Agency: Established by the U.S. Congress, the NGB falls under the joint purview of the Department of the Army and the Department of the Air Force.
Leadership: Headed by a Chief who holds the rank of four-star general, currently General Daniel R. Hokanson (as of May 2nd, 2024).
What The National Guard Bureau Does:
Mission: The NGB’s primary mission is to oversee the National Guard, ensuring its preparedness for federal and state missions. This encompasses training, equipping, and mobilizing National Guard troops.
Dual Role: The National Guard itself has a unique dual role. It serves as a reserve component of the U.S. military, deployable by the federal government during times of war or national emergency. At the same time, it functions as a state militia, responsible for responding to emergencies within their respective states, such as natural disasters or civil unrest.
Where The National Guard Bureau Operates:
Headquarters: The NGB is headquartered in Washington, D.C., placing it at the heart of the national defense apparatus.
National Reach: Though headquartered in D.C., the NGB’s influence extends nationwide. It liaises with all 54 states and territories that maintain their own National Guard units.