Michigan National Guard

• Origins in the 19th Century: The Michigan National Guard traces its roots back to 1862, when the first formal militia units were organized during the American Civil War to serve the Union cause. • Role in Major Wars: Michigan National Guard units have served in nearly every major conflict involving the United States, including the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and beyond. • Defending Detroit in 1805: Even before formal organization, local militia units, predecessors to the Michigan National Guard, defended Detroit from British forces during the War of 1812. • Red Arrow Division: The 32nd Infantry Division, known as the "Red Arrow Division," was formed from Michigan and Wisconsin National Guard units and became famous for its service in World War I and World War II. • Historic Firsts: The Michigan National Guard was the first National Guard unit to be deployed overseas during the Spanish-American War in 1898. • Disaster Relief: The Guard has been instrumental in providing disaster relief during events such as the 1967 Detroit riots, snowstorms, floods, and the Flint water crisis. • Female Trailblazers: In 2003, Michigan Army National Guard’s Captain Lisa Jaster became one of the first female graduates of the U.S. Army Ranger School. • State Partnership Program: The Michigan National Guard partners with Latvia and Liberia through the State Partnership Program, fostering military and cultural exchanges. • Aviation Milestones: The Michigan Air National Guard was activated during World War II and today operates advanced aircraft such as the A-10 Thunderbolt II and KC-135 Stratotanker. • Modern Deployments: Since 9/11, thousands of Michigan Guardsmen have been deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other global locations in support of the War on Terror.