The Kentucky National Guard is comprised of nearly 8,000 Soldiers and Airmen in the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, which are components of the United States Army and the United States Air Force, respectively. The National Guard is unique because it is the only military force in the world with a dual mission: federal and state. Kentucky National Guard Soldiers train to assist the federal government in combat and peace-time missions. Since Sept. 11, 2001 the Kentucky National Guard has mobilized and deployed more than 18,000 Soldiers and Airmen in support of the Global War on Terror. The Kentucky National Guard remains ready to assist communities with disasters on the homefront. Whether it is a flood, tornado, snow or ice storm – or providing security for high-profile events such as the Kentucky Derby – the Kentucky National Guard is here for the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.