I am the Michigan National Guard. I fought against the British in the War of 1812. I also answered the call to arms in the Black Hawk War of 1832.
Just before Michigan achieved statehood, I got into a little spat with my ohioan neighbors over a piece of land that includes Toledo. In the end, the ohioans got Toledo, but in return Michigan got the Upper Penninsula. Who got the better deal? You be the judge.
I've protected our way of life, our state, and our nation by participating in the Patriot War, the Mexican-American War, the Civil war, the Spanish-American War, WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. I've participated in many other various operations, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions. Haiti, the Balkans... the list goes on.
On the homefront I've helped out during strikes and riots. I've been there after floods, fire, snow and tornadoes. And I've played an intricate role in protecting our borders and airports following the tragic events of 9/11.
I'm not really sure when I should celebrate my birthday. The State Legislature enacted legislation in 1839 that provided for the organization of a brigade of "State Guards". Later, in 1870, the State Legislature passed an act authorizing the establishment of the "Michigan State Troops." In 1891, my name changed from the "State Troops" to the Michigan National Guard. But, as you can see I've been around for even longer than that.
I've been called a "weekend warrior", but I am highly trained, and deploy as an equal with my active duty brothers and sisters.
I am the only branch of the military whose existence is actually required by the constitution.
I am a citizen soldier. I am your family member, a neighbor, your accountant, your baseball coach, your super market cashier, your doctor, your bus driver...
