Community Events
The Michigan National Guard Community Relations Program strives to educate the communities we support on the missions and role of the National Guard through active involvement in local events. We have units in most counties throughout the state and we want to be a good neighbor and community partner. As a community-based organization, the National Guard supports and participates in events throughout the state to benefit our citizens and give them insight into their National Guard. These events, such as parades, ceremonies and displays are as important to us as they are to the groups and communities that sponsor them.
We receive a large number of requests throughout the year supporting all areas of the state. Due to the volume of requests, it is not always possible to support each event; though we aim to support as many requests as logistically possible. Given the nature of our responsibility, mission and training requirements always come first.
All requests will be reviewed to ensure events are in accordance with National Guard Bureau Public Affairs Manual 360-5 (NGB PAM 360-5), Army Regulation 360-1 (AR 360-1) and Air Force Instruction 35-101 (AFI 35-101). These regulations exist to ensure conflicts with civilian enterprises are avoided and National Guard personnel are not placed in inappropriate situations.
Many times, special event organizers request volunteer assistance from National Guard Soldiers or Airmen. Members of the National Guard have a proud history of local community service, including participation in local events such as parades and patriotic observances. The Michigan National Guard Public Affairs Office receives all volunteer requests, reviews and validates their legal propriety, then puts out a call across the organization for volunteers.
Volunteers are not necessarily provided in an “official” capacity. The National Guard, as a government institution, refrains from endorsing specific organizations or events which it does not officially sponsor. Instead, it is up to individual Guard members to decide whether they volunteer their time. Event organizers should also be aware, military mission requirements may prevent our members from supporting off-base events.
If the Michigan National Guard is unable to support your event, you will be notified as soon as possible. Thank you for your interest in the National Guard. We look forward to hearing from you.
Getting Started
PLEASE NOTE: The submission of a DD Form 2536 (Request for Armed Forces Participation) or DD Form 2535 (Request for Military Aerial Support) does not guarantee Michigan National Guard participation in your event. We strongly advise not to advertise or publicize National Guard participation in your event until you have received confirmation.
Requests should be submitted 60-90 days prior to the event. Fewer than 60 days notice greatly reduces the chance that National Guard support will be available. Requests received 30 days or closer to the event will NOT be considered.