"State National Guard units, under the direction of governors, and federal military units, under the direction of the Department of Defense (DoD), can render significant assistance to civil authorities in dealing with the aftermath of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or highyield explosive (CBRNE) incidents. This Perspective on Preparedness describes some of the military capabilities that the National Guard and DoD can bring to bear, assuming that a proper request for assistance has been made, a legal review conducted, civilian oversight approval obtained, and appropriate military orders issued."--P. 1.