What is "Vigilant Guard"?

The Vigilant Guard 09 exercise is a multi-state, multi-site exercise, which includes a series of training exercises designed to enhance operational relationships within Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region VII and identify gaps which may exist between civilian and military response organizations, National Guard leadership, and the Joint Staffs of participating states. Region VII VG09 is a component of Ardent Sentry 2009 (AS09), a National Level Exercise Program Tier III exercise.