The National Guard is the only branch of the military that has a unique dual mission. This dual mission means the Missouri National Guard can be activated by the President of the United States and Missouri’s Governor. Missouri’s Army and Air National Guard are made up of nearly 12,000 men and women serving in 65 armories and training sites across Missouri and hailing from all 114 Missouri counties.
 
Our STATE MISSION is to organize, train, and equip a community-based public service oriented operational force. We provide trained and disciplined forces for domestic emergencies or as otherwise required by state law under the authority of the governor. Before the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, most people typically pictured Missouri National Guard members filling sandbags or helping transport affected citizens during the floods of 1993. Our role has expanded since 9/11, with Guard members continually serving around the world and around our country helping during floods, tornadoes, civil disturbances, winter storms, hurricane responses, and the COVID-19 pandemic; the stateside mission is still a major part of what we do.
 
Our FEDERAL MISSION is to maintain properly trained and equipped units for prompt mobilization for Federal Service. We maintain readiness for war, national emergency, peacekeeping missions and overseas contingency operations, or as otherwise directed by the President.