The United States National Guard is a reserve military force that serves both community and country. It is composed of state-based units that can be called upon for federal missions or state emergencies. Each state has its own National Guard, which operates under the authority of the state governor, but can also be mobilized by the President of the United States. Members of the National Guard typically serve part-time, balancing civilian careers or education with their military duties. They receive training in various skills and can be deployed for disaster relief, humanitarian missions, or combat operations, supporting both local and national needs.