The National Guard: An Illustrated History of America's Citizen-Soldier (America Goes to War)

Covers the entire history of both the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard Showcases the National Guards nearly half a million men and women serving in all fifty states the District of Columbia and the territories Features hundreds of images in this first comprehensive illustrated book on the Guard The National Guard is the compelling account in words and pictures of the nations oldest military institution the National Guard. From the defense of the Jamestown settlement in 1607 to peacekeeping missions in the Balkans and most recently to their participation in the war on terrorism the citizen-soldiers of the National Guard have always been an integral part of Americas first line of defense. The Guard fought at Lexington and Concord Bunker Hill New Orleans First Bull Run San Juan Hill the Meuse-Argonne Omaha Beach Operation Desert Storm and in many many other engagements. With nearly half a million members in the year 2002 the Air and Army National Guard are as important as ever to Americas security. Featuring a wide array of rarely seen prints vivid photographs and informative narrative text this handsome volume tells the inspirational story of those dedicated part-time soldiers who throughout the past 400 years have provided full-time service to their states and to their nation. It charts the National Guards evolution from rag-tag militias to sophisticated modern armed forces by describing units individuals weapons equipment vehicles and service throughout the Guards storied history. The first comprehensive illustrated history of the Guard ever published The National Guard will be treasured by citizen-soldiers by their families and by military history enthusiasts nationwide.