What is the Pennsylvania National Guard? The Pennsylvania National Guard is a branch of the United States military that is primarily used for homeland security today. Although the National Guard is not active like the Reserve or active duty Army, it still has the same requirements and responsibility. More than 22,000 men and women today comprise the Pennsylvania National Guard and Air National Guard. They stretch from the state's neighborhoods at Fort Indian Town Gap in Lebanon County to about 100 communities across the Commonwealth. Like all members of the National Guard, they share the same responsibilities. For their federal mission, they are trained and equipped to join active forces in times of war or national emergency. As part of their state mission, they respond to orders from the governor, protecting people's lives and property during natural and man-made disasters. Their role goes beyond floods, blizzards, and riots: they work every day to clean up the environment, fighting to get drugs and other illegal things off the streets, and they serve as role models for generations to come. come. Today, with the National Guard, you can earn extra money for college, learn job skills you can use outside of the service, and feel better about yourself while serving your hometown and country. History of the National Guard The history of the Military 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. Inspired by English militia systems, all Kessler 2 men aged 16 to 60 were required to own weapons and participate in the defense of the community. The National Guard continues its historic mission of defending the nation. The National Guard also fought many battles in the 20th century. The first war they fought in in the 20th century was World War I. From the streets of Harlem and other New York neighborhoods came the African-American national movement... middle of paper ... advance toward Iraq. Armed with the Multiple Rocket Launch System, this battalion's field artillery men provided accurate and devastating fire throughout the campaign. The rockets were so deadly; Iraqi soldiers called them “rain of steel.” Today, the Guard continues its vital peacekeeping efforts in Southwest Asia. What it takes to be part of the National Guard There are many requirements to be part of the Army National Guard. The National Guard has physical, academic, and legal requirements that you must meet to join. You must first be in good physical shape and not have any major disabilities. The minimum age to join the National Guard is 17 and a high school graduate. If you are under 18, you must obtain consent from your parents. If you are not in high school, you must have a high school diploma or GED. You must also score high enough on the ASVAB test. When you get your score, you will be contacted by a recruiter to see what type of job you want and can get because of your score. You must also be a citizen of the United States and if you are a foreigner you cannot get a job in the military requiring a security clearance..