A bill to set up a National Guard in the Northern Marianas has been introduced by the territory's delegate in the US Congress, Gregorio Kilili Sablan.
Saipan, CNMI Photo: Supplied
He says a National Guard for the Northern Marianas is consistent with America's commitment to enhancing security and stability in the Asia-Pacific.
He added that a National Guard unit is also critical for responding quickly and effectively to emergencies, including natural disasters.
Mr Sablan's bill follows on the heels of a study by the National Guard Bureau, which concludes that a National Guard for the CNMI is feasible.
There are 54 National Guard units in existence today - one for each of the 50 states as well as for Guam, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia.
