About this Unit
The New Mexico Army National Guard (NMARNG) traces its origins to the territorial militias formed in the mid-19th century, officially established in 1851. The unit has served in major conflicts including the Philippine Insurrection, World War I, and World War II, where New Mexico Guardsmen notably fought as part of the 200th and 515th Coast Artillery units in the defense of Bataan. Throughout the Cold War and into the modern era, the NMARNG has supported both federal deployments and state emergency missions, such as disaster relief and homeland security. Today, the NMARNG continues its dual mission of supporting national defense and assisting the state of New Mexico in times of need.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in Territorial Militia: The New Mexico Army National Guard (NMARNG) traces its roots back to the 19th century, originating as a territorial militia before New Mexico achieved statehood in 1912.
•
Role in the Mexican Expedition: NMARNG units were mobilized in 1916 to support General John J. Pershing’s punitive expedition against Pancho Villa along the US-Mexico border.
•
Battery A at Bataan: The 200th and 515th Coast Artillery units (originally NMARNG) were among the first to fire against Japanese aircraft at Clark Field during World War II and later endured the infamous Bataan Death March.
•
Distinctive Zia Symbol: The shoulder sleeve insignia of NMARNG features the Zia sun symbol, a sacred emblem of the Zia Pueblo and the state symbol of New Mexico.
•
Homefront Contributions: During World War II, while many NMARNG soldiers fought overseas, others assisted with vital homeland defense and security missions across New Mexico.
•
Disaster Response: NMARNG has been mobilized multiple times for disaster response, including major wildfires, floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic, assisting with logistics, security, and humanitarian aid.
•
Unique Heritage: NMARNG reflects New Mexico's multicultural heritage, with members from diverse backgrounds, including significant Hispanic and Native American representation.
•
International Deployments: Since 9/11, NMARNG units have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, and other regions as part of the Global War on Terrorism.
•
Defenders of Space: In 2017, NMARNG’s 111th Sustainment Brigade provided support to the White Sands Missile Range, a key site for US missile and space testing.
•
Annual Bataan Memorial March: Every year, NMARNG participates in the Bataan Memorial Death March at White Sands, honoring the legacy and sacrifice of the original Bataan defenders, many of whom were New Mexicans.
