• Michigan's Early Organized Militias
Pre-dating the state, Michigan's first militia was organized at Detroit. The Michigan National Guard's proud history of service to state and nation is built on these humble beginnings.

• The War of 1812 and the Black Hawk War
In the War of 1812, Michigan militiamen fought for the United States. Hardship during the march to the Mississippi took its toll on Michigan's participation in the Black Hawk War.

• The Toledo War
Long before the war-of-words ever started between Wolverine and Buckeye fans...before Michigan football, or even a State of Michigan, Michigan's territorial militia marched toward the Ohio border prepared for battle in 1835.

• The Patriot War
Following the Toledo War and statehood, a band of U.S citizens attempted to gain control of part of Canada, then under British control. Michigan's militia became involved and played a role in keeping Canada intact.

• War with Mexico
Michigan's military served to protect the state and in the battle area during the war with Mexico. The conflict raged from 1846 until 1848.

• The Civil War
President Lincoln exclaimed "Thank God for Michigan!" when told of the arrival of the First Michigan Volunteers in answer to his call for troops at the start of the Civil War. Eventually, 23% of Michigan's male population would fight for the Union cause.

• Post-Civil War
Spurred on by the events of the Franco-Prussian War, the state legislature formed the Michigan State Troops.

• The Spanish-American War
Michigan's troops answered the call for the Spanish-American War, volunteering almost to the man.

• The Copper Strikes
Protesting working conditions, copper miners went on strike in 1913. Things turned ugly and Houghton's sheriff called for Michigan National Guard assistance.

• Mexican Border Duty
Michigan National Guard units saw duty along the Mexican border during 1916.

• World War I
National Guardsmen from Michigan and Wisconsin formed the 32nd "Red Arrow" Division, so named because of their quick advances through German lines.

• Labor Troubles in Flint
The Governor called on the Michigan National Guard to help restore order in Flint in the wake of labor disputes there.

• Preparing for World War II
The U.S. military underwent a major reorganization in 1940. Under these auspices, several Michigan National Guard units were mobilized for training. They did not return home until 1945-46.

• Michigan National Guard in World War II
Units of the Michigan National Guard served with distinction in both the European and Pacific Theaters during World War II.

• Reorganizing the Guard Post-World War II
After World War II, the War Department deactivated National Guard units. Returning Guardsmen had to establish new organizations.

• The Korean Conflict
Michigan National Guard members were again called for Federal duty during the Korean Conflict.

• The Tumultuous 1960s
Foriegn and domestic crises–both natural and man-made–are the hallmarks of the 1960s. The Michigan National Guard was busy.

• Post-Vietnam
Significant changes faced the Michigan National Guard during the period following the Vietnam conflict.

• The Persian Gulf Conflict
Over 1,600 Michigan National Guard members served during the Persian Gulf conflict. Thirteen units from across the state participated.

• Post-Desert Storm
Members of Michigan's National Guard units have been busy with a number of mobilizations since the end of the Persian Gulf conflict.

• Dawn of the New Millenium
The Michigan National Guard is adapting to the changing security environment of today's world. The events of September 11, 2001 have reinforced the Guard's sense of purpose.

• 119th Field Artillery in World War I
Formed for World War I, the 119th Field Artillery performed admirably.

• 107th Engineer Battalion History: 1881-1980
Tracing it's official lineage to 1881, today's 107th Engineer Battalion has an illustrious history.

• 32nd "Red Arrow" Infantry Division in WWII
Michigan and Wisconsin National Guard soldiers were the first U.S. troops to see combat during World War II. Units of the 32nd hold the record for most days in continuous contact with the enemy during the war.

• 1279th Combat Engineers
Michigan's only all-African-American unit set a record during the Korean War that still stands today.

• The Brady Guards
Named for Hugh Brady, a U.S. Army general, the Brady Guards became Michigan's oldest military organization.

• Michigan Troops Fight in Russia
At the close of World War I, Michigan troops were sent to Russia to reopen the Eastern Front.

• Guarding Michigan's WWII Homefront
With the federalizing of the Michigan National Guard, the Michigan State Troops were formed to fill the void.