[OneWingedShark]

Yes, the governor of Texas can use the Texas Army National Guard for this issue. However, if he does, it is a “state” issue and must be PAID FOR BY THE STATE. Even big Texas could not afford to pay for a large number of soldiers placed on active duty for state matters for any length of time. A state cannot afford to pay for a large standing military.

You obviously don't realize that the entire US/Mexico border could be sealed by less than 200 Paladin howitzers (plus support & logistics).

[Sola Veritas]

“You obviously don’t realize that the entire US/Mexico border could be sealed by less than 200 Paladin howitzers (plus support & logistics).”

I am a retired army reserve officer. I am aware of what is possible.

However, unless someone can get the POTUS to order the use of force (with the backing of Congress), it isn’t going to happen. Even if the Texas Guard had “200 Paladin howitzers” available to it for its federal role...it could not legally use them for a “state” only mission. That military equipment (howitzers, tanks, even rifles....) is FEDERAL property and cannot be used without FEDERAL approval.

Friend, I am supportive of Governor Perry’s stand. He is right to keep asking - and publically - for the POTUS to act and call up the National Guard to close the border. As a governor, he cannot do this because he lacks the proper authority or real resourses.

Also, those here on FR silly enough to think a bunch of vagabond “militia” types is going to do any good are demented. No governor could trust them to follow his orders; this is NOT the 18th Century. It would be total anarchy and a dangerous situation, and that is NOT what Governor Perry is wanting.