Civics 101 The National Guard
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May 1, 2018 Miranda Summers Lowe, a Military Curator at the Smithsonian and an active National Guard soldier, delves into the fascinating history and dual role of the National Guard. She explains its evolution from colonial militias to a vital force for both state and federal responses. Topics include the enlistment process, the unique training for recruits, and the challenges faced during emergencies like natural disasters. Lowe also shares insights into the relationship between state governors and the federal government, highlighting the National Guard's essential community role.
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National Guard's Unique State Role
- The National Guard is uniquely American with state control unlike other countries' military reserves.
- It reflects a longstanding value of local, community-based military participation since colonial times.
National Guard Activation Types
- The National Guard can be activated under federal or state authority, with states controlling disaster response.
- State active duty and Title 32 status keep guardsmen under state control for local emergencies.
From Phone Trees to Robocalls
- Miranda recalled being pulled out of her college biology class during a phone tree callout.
- Modern units use automatic messaging systems to quickly alert members via calls, texts, and emails.