BOSTON (WWLP) – 388 years ago today, the National Guard was founded in Massachusetts, as the first military regiments in North America.
Since the Guard was founded in 1636, they have served in every major US conflict–from being the first responders to natural disasters on home soil to fighting wars across the world.
At a birthday celebration at the State House, state officials spoke about the National Guard’s crucial military roles beginning as early as the French and Indian War, and emergency response as recently as putting out wildfires across the state earlier this month.
The lieutenant governor spoke at the celebration about how important the National Guard and their role in founding the United States is in shaping Massachusetts’ history.
“You know, in Massachusetts, history is not just some distant memory or part of a musty old school textbook, it’s our living reality,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
Many members of the National Guard work civilian jobs and are our neighbors, teachers, coaches, and friends.