I recently had the opportunity to talk with National Guard members at both the Hurricane Planning Workshop in Florida and the Joint Task Force Commander Training Course.  Both venues were a tremendous opportunity to discuss how USNORTHCOM and the National Guard work together during a crisis situation.  And, while homeland defense is always our primary focus and requires 24/7/365 attention, bringing together a coordinated civil support effort is not happen stance either.  To support our states, integrated planning and shared situational awareness are key.  But even bigger than that, we must anticipate where a state or region might want our support, so we can be ready when they need us. 

Joint military operations in the homeland are complex, and the National Guard must be prepared to operate either for the federal government or the governor of a state.  NORTHCOM has a responsibility to provide the best support possible using our networks and resources, especially our specialized capabilities that do not reside in any other agency.

When it comes to homeland defense and supporting civil authorities, USNORTHCOM and the National Guard need each other.  We serve our states and our nation best when we collaborate to protect our citizens; and they deserve the best.

Cheers, Gene Renuart