National Guard
/ˈnæʃənəl ɡɑrd/
Definitions
- (n.) A military reserve force composed of part-time soldiers, organized by each U.S. state or territory, serving under both state and federal authority.
The governor mobilized the National Guard to assist in natural disaster relief efforts.
- (n.) A state military force that can be federalized by the President for national defense or domestic emergencies.
The President activated the National Guard units to support federal law enforcement during the crisis.
Forms
- national guard
- national guards
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The National Guard occupies a dual state-federal status, which affects command and control, important in legal contexts involving activation and jurisdiction.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.