The National Guard is one of the biggest sources of support during a natural disaster such as Hurricane Irma.
Each state; Washington, D.C.; and three U.S. territories have their own National Guard unit with both federal and state responsibilities. Federally, members can be activated during wartime and national emergencies.
On a local level, governors can mobilize their National Guard personnel in response to man-made or natural disasters.
Florida Gov. Rick Scott activated the entire state's National Guard — 7,000 troops — in preparation for Irma.
National Guard units from other states are also providing assistance. Ten thousand additional troops have already been deployed to Florida, and another 20,000 are standing by.
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Guard members helped residents evacuate, set up emergency shelters, provided medical assistance, and delivered supplies like food and water.
Monday morning, Irma was downgraded to a tropical storm after slamming Florida with flooding, damaging winds and storm surges. Millions woke up Monday without power.
