Residents Still Reeling After Federal Authorities' Presence in MacArthur Park

The **Department of Homeland Security (DHS)** is a U.S. federal agency established in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks to safeguard the nation from a wide range of threats including terrorism, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and border security challenges. Its core mission is to protect the American people, critical infrastructure, and uphold national security by coordinating efforts across government and private sectors. DHS oversees immigration enforcement, cybersecurity, emergency response, and counterterrorism initiatives. Formed in 2002, DHS consolidated 22 federal agencies to create a unified structure for domestic security. Its key components include the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Over the years, DHS has played a critical role in preventing terrorist attacks, enhancing airport security, responding to natural disasters like hurricanes and pandemics, and advancing cybersecurity protections for government and private sector networks. In recent years, DHS has shifted focus towards emerging threats such as unmanned drone attacks on infrastructure, cyber intrusions into financial and critical systems, and disruptions to supply chains. Strategic visions for 2025 and beyond emphasize technological innovation, integration of intelligence, and public-private partnerships to address these complex challenges. The agency’s budget reflects its broad mandate, with over $400 billion allocated for fiscal year 2025, underscoring its significant role in national security and emergency preparedness. Notably, DHS has faced scrutiny and calls for reform, especially regarding immigration enforcement and internal mission clarity. Recent directives have expanded immigration enforcement powers to other federal law enforcement agencies, reflecting policy shifts under different administrations focused on border security. For business and technology sectors, DHS represents a major government player driving innovation in cybersecurity, disaster response technology, and infrastructure protection, while navigating evolving threats in a complex geopolitical landscape. Its ongoing modernization efforts aim to enhance resilience and adapt to future security challenges.

## Overview The National Guard is a unique component of the United States Armed Forces, serving as both a state and federal military reserve. It is divided into the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, each functioning as the primary combat reserve for the U.S. Army and Air Force, respectively[1][5]. Unlike other military reserves, the National Guard can be activated by state governors for domestic emergencies—such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or public health crises—while also being deployable overseas by the president during national emergencies or conflicts[1][2]. This dual role makes it a critical bridge between civilian life and military service, with most members serving part-time while maintaining civilian careers or education[1][7]. ## History The National Guard traces its origins to 1636 in Salem, Massachusetts, making it the oldest military organization in the U.S.[4][6]. Initially formed as local militias for community defense, it evolved into a structured reserve force integral to every major U.S. conflict since the nation’s founding[6]. The modern National Guard was formally established by the Militia Act of 1903, which standardized training and equipment across states and created a federal role for the Guard[4]. ## Key Achievements The National Guard has been pivotal in both domestic and international crises. Domestically, Guard units have responded to hurricanes, wildfires, the COVID-19 pandemic, and civil disturbances, providing essential support to local authorities[2][6]. Internationally, Guard units have deployed to conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Balkans, as well as peacekeeping and training missions worldwide[2][5]. The Guard’s State Partnership Program also fosters military cooperation with over 100 nations, enhancing global security partnerships[5]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects Today, the National Guard comprises approximately 430,000 members across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories[1][6]. It is overs