The Vermont National Guard has a dual mission that consists of both federal and state roles. For state missions, the governor, through the state adjutant general, commands Guard forces. The governor can call the National Guard into action during local or statewide emergencies, such as storms, fires, pandemic response, or civil disturbances.

In addition, the president of the United States can activate the National Guard for participation in federal missions. Examples of federal activations include Guard units deployed to Europe and Africa for stabilization operations and units deployed to the Middle East and other locations in the War on Terrorism. When federalized, Guard units are commanded by the combatant commander of the theatre in which they are operating.