PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Dual Mission (Veterans and National Guard):

• The DMVA has a dual mission: providing quality service to Pennsylvania's veterans and their families while overseeing and supporting the members of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG).

Veterans Services:

• Dedicated to serving Pennsylvania's more than 700,000 veterans and their families.

• Offers resources and assistance to veterans, emphasizing quality care for aging and disabled veterans.

National Guard Responsibilities:

• Prepares the Pennsylvania National Guard for combat, undertaking worldwide combat and combat support operations.

• Provides global reach and projects U.S. military power in support of national objectives.

• Under the command of the governor, deploys trained personnel to support state and local authorities during natural disasters or civil strife.

Historical Background:

• Established by the Act of April 11, 1793, initially named the Adjutant General Department.

• Renamed the Department of Military Affairs by the Administrative Code of 1923.

• The Act of March 21, 1996, changed the name to the current Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA).

Size and Employment Impact:

• One of Pennsylvania’s largest employers with approximately 22,000 military and civilian personnel.

• Presence in around 90 communities statewide.

Leadership Structure:

• Overseen by the adjutant general, a cabinet-level position appointed by the governor.

Headquarters Location:

• The DMVA and PNG are headquartered at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County.

• Fort Indiantown Gap spans more than 17,000 acres and features 140 training areas and facilities.

• Offers year-round training for military forces, law enforcement agents, and civilians from across the nation.

• One of the busiest National Guard Training Centers in the country.