Anniversary of the National Guard’s Founding honored by Atlanta VAHCS Veteran
By Gregory Kendall, Public Affairs Specialist
Atlanta-area Veteran Joseph McGee, a member of the Georgia Army National Guard, will mark a proud moment of military heritage on Dec 13 by observing the anniversary of the National Guard’s establishment—an annual reminder of more than three centuries of citizen-soldiers answering the call to serve.
McGee, who receives care through the Atlanta VA Health Care System, reflected on the significance of the milestone, noting that the National Guard’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of American defense and community support. Established in 1636, the National Guard is recognized as the nation’s oldest military organization, built on the commitment of ordinary citizens who stepped forward to protect their communities long before the founding of the United States.
For McGee, the anniversary represents both personal pride and national appreciation.
“Serving in the Guard taught me that service isn’t just something you do overseas—it’s something you do every day for the people around you,” he said. “This anniversary reminds me of the generations who stood ready before us, and the men and women still serving today who carry that tradition forward.”
As the nation celebrates the founding of the National Guard, Atlanta VAHCS salutes all who have served in Guard units—past, present, and future—and recognizes the enduring impact of their commitment to both community and country.