Photo By Capt. Benjamin Larson | Col. Ross Evenhouse recognizes Soldiers and Airmen of the Michigan National Guard Joint Staff for this dedication and outstanding service during Exercise Vigilant Guard 26-4.
Exercise Vigilant Guard is a Full-Scale Exercise designed to ensure effective coordination between local, state, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and federal partners. (Army National Guard photo by Capt. Benjamin Larson) see less
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Michigan National Guard Joint Staff successfully closes out Exercise Vigilant Guard 26-4
Throughout July 2026, the Michigan National Guard (MING) Joint Staff participated in Exercise Vigilant Guard 26-4. Vigilant Guard is a US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) led exercise program that offers the National Guard the opportunity to test and validate their regional emergency management and Homeland Defense plans through scenarios requiring synchronization with local, county, state, and federal agencies throughout the state.
This year marked Michigan's second year in a row participating in Exercise Vigilant Guard and the successful conclusion of the exercise reaffirmed the MING Joint Staff's ability to effectively conduct planning and staff operations alongside our civil partners at all levels.
"The Vigilant Guard exercise program provided us with an invaluable opportunity to stress-test our Joint Staff in a highly realistic, joint, interagency environment," said Colonel James Blocker, Chief of the Joint Staff. "Our paramount duty is to support our Governor and our civil partners in times of crisis. The proficiency and dedication demonstrated by our Joint Staff ensures that when the citizens of Michigan need us, we will be ready to respond effectively and decisively."
The MING Joint Staff, located in Lansing, Mich., provides command and control over both the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) and Michigan Air National Guard (MIANG). Under the authority of the Governor of Michigan and the Adjutant General of Michigan the Joint Staff serves provides a unified force capable of rapid mobilization to the protect the State of Michigan, preserve life and property, and support global military objectives.
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