Which entity has dual responsibilities as both a state and federal component?

The Air National Guard holds dual responsibilities as both a state and federal component, making it unique among military entities. This means that the Air National Guard operates under the authority of both state governors and federal government, particularly the President of the United States.

When activated at the state level, the Air National Guard can respond to state emergencies, such as natural disasters or civil disturbances. This allows state governors to call upon these forces to assist in maintaining order and delivering aid during crises. On the other hand, when the Air National Guard is activated for federal service, it operates under the command of the President and the Department of Defense, contributing to national defense and military operations.

In contrast, the other entities, such as the Air Force Reserve Command, primarily operate under the federal jurisdiction without the same level of state responsibility, while the Department of Defense is exclusively a federal agency without any state component. The National Guard Bureau primarily oversees the National Guard without itself being classified as a state and federal entity.