FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — December 12, 2024
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. — Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts National Guard, will preside over a ceremony celebrating the Guard’s 388th birthday held at the State House on Dec. 13, 2024.
WHAT: The 388th National Guard Birthday Ceremony
WHEN: Friday, December 13, 2024 beginning at 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133
The National Guard is the oldest military force in the Department of Defense. The first militia regiments in North America were organized in Massachusetts. The 101st Engineer Battalion, the 101st Field Artillery Regiment, the 181st Infantry Regiment, and the 182nd Infantry Regiment trace their lineage to the North, South and East Regiments, and were created by legislative act of the Massachusetts Bay General Court on December 13, 1636. This date is recognized as the birthday of the National Guard. Today, these first regiments share the distinction of being the oldest units in the U.S. military.
Since its inception in 1636, the Massachusetts National Guard has participated in each of our nation’s conflicts, steadfastly serving the country and the citizens of the Commonwealth. Over 20,000 Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have deployed since September 11, 2001.
Media wishing to attend the ceremony should follow established State House access protocol.