The Oregon Military Department's purpose is to administer, house, equip and train the Oregon National Guard, and provide a ready force to support the Governor during unrest or natural disaster, and as a reserve force to the United States Air Force and the United States Army.

Article 1, Sec. 8 of the U.S. Constitution provides for "... the organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such part of them as may be employed in the Service of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress."

The Oregon National Guard has a long tradition and history dating back to 1843. The tradition and history of the Oregon Guard is grounded on the basis of its mission statement; A ready force equipped and trained to respond to any contingency. When we are needed, we are there.