The National Guard: An Illustrated History of America's Citizen-Soldiers

About this book

The National Guard is the compelling account in words and pictures of the nations oldest military institution. 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 the battles of 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 ragtag militias to sophisticated modern armed forces by describing units individuals weapons equipment vehicles and service throughout the guards storied history. The paperback second edition features updated text and twenty new photos to cover the National Guards recent service in Afghanistan Iraq homeland security and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.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.