Who commands a National Guard Airman or Soldier during peacetime?

A National Guard Airman or Soldier is primarily commanded by the governor of their state during peacetime because the National Guard operates under state authority. In this context, the governor serves as the commander-in-chief of the state's National Guard forces, giving them the authority to oversee training, operations, and overall governance of the units.

This state-level command structure allows for a more localized and responsive military organization that can address specific needs and missions within the state. The National Guard can be mobilized for state emergencies, such as natural disasters or civil unrest, under the governor's command, thereby ensuring that the Airmen and Soldiers are available and accountable to the state's leadership during non-federal situations.

While the president, the secretary of defense, and the chief of the National Guard Bureau may play significant roles in the broader context of military command, their authority typically comes into play when the National Guard is activated for federal duty or in response to national crises. In those cases, the command structure shifts to federal oversight, but in peacetime, the role of the governor is central and paramount in the command of National Guard personnel.