ARNG of W VA

• Origins in the Colonial Era: The West Virginia Army National Guard (ARNG of WV) traces its roots to colonial militias formed as early as 1735 in the region, long before West Virginia became a state. • Civil War Beginnings: West Virginia was admitted to the Union in 1863, and its National Guard units were quickly organized to support the Union cause during the American Civil War. • Battle of Blair Mountain: In 1921, the West Virginia National Guard was called to action during the Battle of Blair Mountain, the largest labor uprising in U.S. history, where it helped restore order. • World War Service: West Virginia units served with distinction in both World Wars, notably with the 150th Infantry Regiment participating in major campaigns in Europe during World War II. • Domestic Emergency Response: The WV ARNG has been activated for numerous natural disasters, including the 1972 Buffalo Creek Flood and the 2016 West Virginia floods, providing lifesaving aid and recovery. • Global War on Terror: Since 9/11, thousands of West Virginia Guardsmen have deployed overseas to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations in support of the Global War on Terror. • Specialized Aviation Units: The WV ARNG is home to the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), which is one of only two special forces groups in the National Guard nationwide. • Women in the Guard: West Virginia was among the first states to integrate women into its National Guard following the passage of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act in 1948. • Presidential Inaugurations: West Virginia National Guard members have regularly participated in the security efforts for presidential inaugurations in Washington, D.C. • State Partnership Program: The WV ARNG has a partnership with Peru under the National Guard State Partnership Program, promoting military and civil cooperation and exchanges.