Is the National Guard the same as the Army?

The National Guard is a state militia….. An Army reserve unit normally under the control of the governor of the state, rather than the president. However it is periodically ordered to federal active duty. While on active duty, it is a part of the US Army. read more

The Air National Guard is a separate organization with the same functions as the Army National Guard, but units (usually wings) can be activated to supplement the U.S. Air Force. The two guards were split in this way by a reorganization of the U.S. military after World War II. read more

As far as the Army National Guard, or Iowa Army National Guard, etc they are all the exact same thing with the same pay and benefits. The Guard does not force you to move somewhere to drill, but can mobilize you and send you overseas. read more