The National Guard Association of Minnesota's purpose is to advocate for improved equipment, training, benefits, and support for Minnesota National Guardsmen and their families.The National Guard Association of Minnesota is your local chapter of the National Guard Association of United States which is the nation's oldest military association lobbying solely for the benefit of the National Guard of the United States and educating the public about the Guard's role and history in the Armed Forces of the United States. It was formed by militia officers in 1878 to obtain better equipment and training by petitioning Congress for more resources.To maintain the highest state of readiness, the National Guard needs a strong voice in Washington, D.C., to ensure the Guard has sufficient resources and budget to carry out its mission. NGAUS is that voice, seeking modern equipment, training, missions and personnel benefits in support of over 470,000 men and women currently serving in the Army and Air National Guard, as well as their families, employers and all Guard retirees.NGAUS achieves its mission through its lobbying and legislative activities. We are also dedicated to educating the public, through our partnership with the National Guard Educational Foundation, about our service to the nation through various outreach programs, publications, and support of a museum and research library dedicated to the preservation of the Guard's history.The National Guard Association of Minnesota is a non-profit 501(c)(19) Veterans Organization.