What is the Pennsylvania Army National Guard? The Pennsylvania Army National Guard is a branch of the United States Army that today is used primarily for national security. While the National Guard is not as active as the Reserves or active-duty Army, it still has the same requirements and responsibilities. Today, more than 22,000 men and women make up the Pennsylvania National Guard and the Air National Guard. They reach from state neighborhoods from Fort Indian Town Gap in Lebanon County to about 100 communities in the commonwealth. Like all members of the National Guard they share the same responsibilities. For their federal mission, they are trained and equipped to join active forces in times of war or national emergency. Per their state mission, they respond to the governor's orders, protecting people's lives and property during natural and man-made disasters. Their role goes beyond floods, blizzards and riots: every day they work to clean up the environment, fighting to get drugs and other illegal things off the streets, and serving as role models for generations to come. With the National Guard today, you can earn extra money for college, learn job skills you can use off-duty, and feel better about yourself by serving your hometown and country. History of the National Guard History of the Army National Guard began on December 13, 1636, when the Massachusetts Bay Colony organized three regiments of militiamen to defend against the growing threat of the Pequot Indians. Modeled on the English militia system, all males between the ages of 16 and 60 Kessler 2 were obliged to own weapons and take part in the defense of the community. The National Guard continues its historic mission to defend the nation. The National Guard also fought many battles in the 20th century. The first war they found themselves in during the 20th century was World War I. From the streets of Harlem and other neighborhoods of New York came the national African-Americans... at the center of the card... the advance towards Iraq. Armed with the multiple launch missile system, the field artillery men of this battalion provided accurate and devastating fire throughout the entire campaign. The rockets were so deadly; the Iraqi soldiers called them “steel rain”. Today, the Guard continues its vital peacekeeping efforts in Southwest Asia. What It Takes to Be Part of the National Guard There are many requirements to be part of the Army National Guard. The National Guard has physical, academic, and legal requirements that you must meet to join. You must first of all be in good physical shape and not have major handicaps. The minimum age to join the National Guard is 17 years old and have a middle school education. If you are under 18 you must have your parents' consent. If you do not attend high school you must have a high school diploma or GED. You also need to score high enough on the ASVAB test. Once you get your score, you will be contacted by a recruiter to see what kind of job you want and can get based on your score. You must also be a US citizen and if you are a foreigner you cannot get a job in the military that requires a security clearance.