It was not until 1898 that the first real test of the ability of the Adjutant Generals Department was tested. this was during the Spanish American War. In 1916 there was trouble on the Mexican Border, then Came World War One.  Effectiveness of the Guard improved with experience over the years. Many local citizens served in each of these conflicts.

World War I:

After World War One the Guard was disbanded but began reorganization in 1920 with expanded activities. Guardsmen were called upon to control railroad and textile strikes. 

The 30th Division was created in 1917 and included units in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. From the beginning it was known as Old Hickory in honor of General Andrew Jackson. 

The first National Guard Unit was organized in Youngsville on June 3, 1921 as Headquarters and Combat Training First battalion, 117th Field Artillery's. Drills were first held in an old frame tobacco warehouse which stood on College Street across from the old Graded School. One of the first outstanding commander of the unit was Captain Earl Underwood.

World War II:

In September 1940, shortly before the United States entered World War II, National Guardsmen throughout the nation were activated. It was on September 16, 1940 that 74 men from the Youngsville Guard were called and sent to Fort Jackson, South Carolina. In December of 1941 when the 630th. Tank Destroyer Battalion was activated, personnel was drawn from the 30th. Division, including men from Franklin County. The 630th trained for about 3 years before being sent overseas. On June 3rd 1944 that the 630th left the port of New York on the ocean liner "New Amsterdam." On June 12th 1944, the unit arrived in England where they stayed near Birmingham for about 5 weeks. 

On 24 July 1944, the 630th T D Bn. crossed the English Chanel in one day landing at Omaha Beach, Normandy France. They immediately saw action, receiving commendations for their bravery. They fought in 5 major campaigns: Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Germany, Ardennes-Alsace France Central Europe. They were in action for about 252 days.

The day after the brilliant victory achieved on the plains of Alsace (France) by your divisions fraternally united with French Forces, I am particularly happy to convey to you my gratitude and appreciation. "I humble myself in the memory of those of your comrades who have given their lives for France, for their Country, for the Liberty of the World and I hope, a day will come when once again, side by side, our united armies will achieve final victory." 14 February 1945, General J. de Lattre, Commander in Chief of the First French Army  

As this Battalion departed for the redeployment back to the United States of America their Major General Cota commended the Battalion for its "superior Teamwork, gallantry, resourcefulness & cooperation." In closing he wrote:  "I wish to commend the superior leadership, initiative and gallantry displayedby the officers and men of your Battalion. It is, my opinion,  a "crack" outfit and it is hoped we will again ROLL ON together in the very near future!" 15 March 1945 Major General Norman D Cota, USA

To:  The Officers and Men of the 630th Tank Destroyer Battalion - "The Fightingest TD Battalion in the ETO"

" You have heard the dramatic news that the War with Germany is over. The enemy has surrendered unconditionally - the peace terms will be ours. I know that no body of men received this news with greater joy than you. Throughout the past ten months you participated in fighting which has made history. You have helped to liberate France, Belgium and Luxembourg. You marched through Paris. You were one of the first units to invade the enemy's home - to walk  upon the Fatherland.  A grateful nation at home and a grateful world give you their thanks today for a job well done. May I add the personal commendation and appreciation of one who served with you in training and has been with you every day in combat. The memory of our fine work and friendship will be forever with me." 8 May 1945, Patrick G. Emmanuel, Major, F.A., USA Commanding.

Korean War, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other Military Actions:

Members of the Youngsville National Guard

have and continue to serve community and our country to this day.

In April 1960 Lt. Robert Hill met with the Youngsville Board of Commissioners to discuss the need and possibility of securing an Armory. Mayor A. E. Hall led an extensive campaign to build an Armory in Youngsville.  In 1970 Colonel John E. Fleming reported that construction funds might be available.  CWO-4 R.E. Cheatham and First Sgt. Delmus Hudson were chosen as project coordinators. The town of Youngsville secured a site for the Armory purchasing land from Mr. Robert Need and Mrs. E. M. Mitchell & family.  

The Armory was to be named "Youngsville Memorial Armory." The building was completed March 1974 and the dedication was held March 9, 1975. Captain Richard H. Cash conducted the Armory Dedication Celebration opening remarks and became Commander, Battery B 5th Battalion (8"SP) 113 FA North Carolina National Guard.