Pennsylvania National Guard

The Pennsylvania National Guard, one of the oldest military organizations in the United States, traces its origins to 1747 when Benjamin Franklin established the "Associators" in Philadelphia for colonial defense. Throughout its history, the unit has served in every major American conflict, including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World Wars I and II, and numerous overseas deployments in recent decades. The Guard has also played a crucial role in state emergencies such as natural disasters and civil disturbances. Today, the Pennsylvania National Guard is one of the largest in the nation, providing both combat-ready forces for federal missions and vital support to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.