Us Code § 102 - General policy

Full text of Us Code United States Code § 102 — General policy, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 102. General policy

In accordance with the traditional military policy of the United States, it is essential that the strength and organization of the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard as an integral part of the first line defenses of the United States be maintained and assured at all times. Whenever Congress determines that more units and organizations are needed for the national security than are in the regular components of the ground and air forces, the Army National Guard of the United States and the Air National Guard of the United States, or such parts of them as are needed, together with such units of other reserve components as are necessary for a balanced force, shall be ordered to active Federal duty and retained as long as so needed.

(Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041, 70A Stat. 597.)

Historical and Revision Notes
Revised sectionSource (U.S. Code)Source (Statutes at Large)
102 50:921(b). July 9, 1952, ch. 608, §201(b), 66 Stat. 482.

The words "The Congress further declares * * * as expressed in the National Defense Act of 1916 as amended" and "It is the intent of Congress that" are omitted as surplusage. The words "United States" are substituted for the words "our" and "this Nation". The words "more * * * than are in" are substituted for the words "in excess of those". The words "Federal duty" are substituted for the words "military service of the United States". The words "as long as so needed" are substituted for the words "so long as such necessity exists".

About This Section

32 U.S.C. § 102 is part of Title 32 of the United States Code. The United States Code is the official codification of federal statutes maintained by the Office of the Law Revision Counsel of the U.S. House of Representatives. Congress amends the Code through new public laws, which are eventually incorporated into the relevant title.

This section may be cited in legal writing as 32 U.S.C. § 102. For the most current official text, including any recent amendments, use the official source links below. Do not rely on this page as the sole authority for legal citation or litigation.

How to Read This Statute

Statutes are organized by title, chapter, section, and subsection. Pay attention to words like "shall," "may," "and," and "or," because they determine whether a requirement is mandatory or permissive and whether multiple conditions must all be met. Historical notes and amendments often appear at the end of a section.

Using This Page

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Sources

Source: official Us Code text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Us Code § 102

What does United States Code § 102 cover?

Section 102 ("General policy") is part of the United States Code, the codified statutory law of Us Code. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Us Code § 102?

A common citation format is "United States Code § 102" (Us Code). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Us Code law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Us Code official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Us Code attorney.

How does Us Code § 102 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Us Code can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Us Code.