Alabama National Guard

• Origins in Colonial Militia: The Alabama National Guard traces its roots back to colonial militia units in the early 1800s, well before Alabama became a state in 1819. • Civil War Service: Many Alabama militia units served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War, forming the basis for later National Guard units. • Mexican Border Duty (1916): Alabama National Guard troops were mobilized to patrol the Mexican border during the Pancho Villa Expedition, helping to secure the southern U.S. border. • World War I Contribution: The Alabama National Guard’s 167th Infantry Regiment became part of the famed 42nd "Rainbow" Division, seeing heavy combat in France. • World War II Valor: Alabama National Guard units fought in both the European and Pacific Theaters, including the 31st Infantry "Dixie" Division, which saw action in New Guinea and the Philippines. • Civil Rights Era Role: In 1963, the Alabama National Guard was federalized by President Kennedy to enforce desegregation at the University of Alabama, famously standing against Governor George Wallace. • Hurricane Katrina Response: The Alabama National Guard played a critical role in disaster relief and recovery across the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. • Global War on Terror: Since 2001, Alabama National Guard units have deployed multiple times to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations as part of the War on Terror. • State Partnership Program: The Alabama National Guard has a long-standing partnership with Romania, fostering military and civilian cooperation since 1993. • Modern Missions: Today, the Alabama National Guard supports a diverse array of missions, including cyber defense, disaster response, and international peacekeeping operations.