In the near future, we plan to introduce a Resolution recognizing June 10, 2026, as “National Guard & Veterans Day at the Capitol.”

In 1747, Benjamin Franklin formed the "Associators," the precursor to the PA National Guard. And in 1755, the General Assembly of the Province of Pennsylvania formally enacted its first militia law. The past 279 years have seen much cooperation and support from the General Assembly for the Pennsylvania militia, the Pennsylvania National Guard and the soldiers and airmen who proudly serve this Commonwealth and this nation. Today, Pennsylvania has the 4th largest National Guard force in the nation.  Meanwhile, with nearly 700,000 veterans, the Commonwealth has the 7th largest veteran population.  Pennsylvania has numerous programs serving our veterans community, including the award-winning PA Vet Connect program.

On June 10th, the PA Department of Military & Veterans Affairs and the National Guard will be at the Capitol with displays in the East Wing Rotunda – a morning presentation to legislators – a presentation on the history of the PA National Guard and swearing in ceremony for those committing to serve in the PA National Guard – and the Deputy Adjutant General of the Army addressing the Senate at the start of Session.  This year's theme is “One Team/One Mission: Defending Freedom Since 1747,” pays tribute to our citizen soldiers and airmen of the PA National Guard, veterans of all services and components who have served and their families.
 
Please join us in supporting the Pennsylvania National Guard and our Veterans by signing onto this resolution, which is similar to SR 301 of 2024.