The term “National Guard” was first used in America in 1824 during the visit of the Marquis de LaFayette to the United States. The visit of the Marquis de Lafayette was in every sense a triumphal procession. To honor this French hero of the American Revolution, the 2nd Battalion of the 11th New York Artillery, was one of many militia commands who turned out in welcome. The Battalion, later the 7th Regiment, voted to rename itself the “Battalion of National Guards” in tribute to LaFayette’s command of the Paris militia “Garde Nationale de Paris.” This unit was prominent in the line of march on the occasion of LaFayette's final passage through New York en route to his home to France. Taking note of the troops named for his old command, LaFayette alighted from his carriage, walked down the line, clasping each officer by the hand as he passed. The name "National Guard" was destined to become the name of the U.S. militia, as other state militia units similarly followed suit.
California's National Guard
LaFayette and the National Guard's Name
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CW2 Mark J. Denger and LTC Roger D. McGrath
California Center for Military History
History of the National Guard
American Heritage Library and Museum
Related Web Sites
Marquis de La Fayette
Battalion of National Guards
