UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BIRTHDAY
Many departments keep the country and its citizens safe; without the efforts and sacrifice of these brave men and women, America would not be a safe and mighty nation, just like it is today. However, September 18th will focus only on one department as it is the Air National Guard's birthday. This department, also known as the Air Guard, is a separate reserve of the Air Force. It is considered a military reserve and militia air force of each U.S. state, such as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the territories of Guam, and the District of Columbia.
Tracing the History of the Air National Guard
Like the Air Force, the Air National Guard can trace its roots to the U.S. Army. This department became independent via the National Security Act of 1947. Then, the existing National Guard Air Force units started operating under the new umbrella of the United States Air Force and created the Air National Guard's birthday as a component on September 18, 1947. Their website indicates that the new branch inherited 59 aviation units, including a number of active squadrons since 1940.
Its oldest unit is the New York 102nd Rescue Squadron, initially assigned to the Aero Company, Signal Corps, in 1915. However, the oldest continually serving unit is the 109th Airlift Squadron, which was created in 1921. Even though they are not established as a different reserve branch of the U.S. Air Force, they have played a vital role in the wars that America participated in.
Captain Raynal Cawthorne Bolling commanded the 1st Aero Company, New York National Guard, in November 1915. After the war, the National Guard aviation was placed permanently over the initial opposition of the Army's General Staff, and 29 Guard observation squadrons were created during the interwar period. Their pilots during this time honed their flying and ground support skills and participated in various missions.
The Importance of the Air National Guard
During the Air National Guard's birthday, it is vital to remember that they have essential roles in the armed forces as they are responsible for defending the United States. One great example is when General George Washington ordered the foremost National Guard unit against the attack of British forces.
Patrolling American waters, they ensure the safety of all Americans. Today, they provide the Air Force's continental United States-based air defense interceptor force.
Since the Second World War, the Air National Guard has restored and maintained peace worldwide. It is also heavily involved in various humanitarian efforts, such as the Berlin Crisis. It has restored democracy around the world, like the invasions of Panama and Grenada and its involvement in Operation Desert Storm on August 2, 1990.
How to Join the Air Guard?
There are several ways that you can celebrate the birthday of the Air National Guard. You can watch documentary films, visit landmarks or museums, or join the unit. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you can enlist.
There is an age requirement: You must be at least between 18 and 39; if you are 17, a parent's signature is a must. A high school diploma is also required, although a GED certificate is accepted. You need to be physically fit to pass the physical exam, and there is an Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery that will determine your career path.
Joining the Air Guard is difficult, as you will undergo various training at the Joint Base San Antonio. This will last six weeks and allow you to learn the basics of military life, drills, ceremonies, customs, and various challenges that will build your stamina and confidence.
If you have been in the military previously, then the Air National Guard is one of the best ways to resume earning money and time for retirement while continuing to serve the country. When you join this branch, various benefits will await you since you have prior military and Guard experience. There are also options if you are transitioning from active duty or have been out of service.
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