South Dakota National Guard
Celebrate military history and heritage
South Dakota Army National Guard
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Description
Access historical information about the origins and milestones. View timelines and facts about its role in American history. Explore details about its structure and responsibilities. Share content related to its legacy and service.
The National Guard, the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States and one of the nation's longest-enduring institutions , celebrated its 364th birthday in 2000. The National Guard traces its history back to the earliest English colonies in North America. Responsible for their own defense, the colonists drew on English military tradition and organized their able-bodied male citizens into militias.