The U.S. National Guard traces its long history back to the early colony days when the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony on December 13, 1636, ordered the formation of three regiments in the Boston area. A militia and defense act by the first Congress in 1792 directed the militia to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions. The National Guard has played a major role in defense of the United States ever since. These citizen soldiers firmly believe that their military service is required to make their nation and communities a safer and better place.