Wisconsin National Guard

• Founding Date: The Wisconsin National Guard was officially established in 1837, even before Wisconsin became a state in 1848, making it one of the oldest military organizations in the Midwest. • Civil War Service: Over 91,000 Wisconsin men served in the Union Army during the Civil War, organized into 53 infantry regiments, 4 cavalry regiments, and 13 light artillery batteries. • “Iron Brigade” Fame: The “Iron Brigade,” composed largely of Wisconsin regiments (notably the 2nd, 6th, and 7th Wisconsin Infantry), gained national fame for their valor and heavy casualties in major Civil War battles, especially at Gettysburg. • World War I Activation: The entire Wisconsin National Guard was federalized in 1917, forming the core of the 32nd “Red Arrow” Infantry Division, which fought with distinction in France. • World War II: The 32nd Infantry Division, with roots in the Wisconsin Guard, fought for 654 days in combat in the Pacific theater—longer than any other US division in World War II. • Domestic Crisis Response: The Wisconsin National Guard has been frequently called to respond to domestic emergencies, including the Peshtigo Fire (1871), Milwaukee riots (1967), and recent COVID-19 pandemic support missions. • First Female General: Brigadier General Joane Mathews, a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, became the first Native American woman to serve as a general officer in the Wisconsin National Guard in 2016. • Homeland Security Role: Since 9/11, Wisconsin Guard units have supported homeland security operations, including airport security missions and natural disaster relief under Operation Noble Eagle. • International Partnerships: The Wisconsin National Guard has a State Partnership Program with Nicaragua and Papua New Guinea, promoting military and civil cooperation, disaster response, and cultural exchange. • Proud Aviation Heritage: The 115th Fighter Wing, based in Madison, flies F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, and is one of the Air National Guard’s premier fighter wings, tracing its lineage back to World War II.