The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, stunned the nation and the people of the State of Michigan. That very day, the Michigan State Police and the Michigan National Guard each activated their Emergency Operations Centers. Since that fateful day, better than 1,000 citizen-soldiers and airmen of the Michigan National Guard have deployed in support of Homeland Security missions.

Michigan Guard Serves the State

Almost immediately after the events of September 11th, Michigan Air National Guard fighter jets were safeguarding the Michigan skies. With F-16s, based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and A-10s, based at Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Michigan's Air National Guard was equipped, trained, and ready to serve state and nation in the key hours following the terrorist attacks.

Following the restoration of civilian air travel, Michigan Army National Guard soldiers took up posts in the state's commercial airports. These soldiers served to ensure the integrity of the nation's air travel security system. The armed Michigan Guard members worked with local and federal law enforcement to achieve this purpose. This federally-reimbursed mission is scheduled to conclude by the end of May 2002.

Michigan led the nation in providing National Guard assistance to international border crossings. Considering the importance of trade with Canada to Michigan's economy, Governor Engler ordered the Guard to assist Customs and Border Patrol with the task of border security.