National Guard Day is observed in Kyrgyzstan every year on July 20. This day commemorates the first oath of allegiance taken by the troops of the National Guard of Kyrgyzstan in 1992. The National Guard, an independent unit within the Armed Forces, is directly subordinate to the President of Kyrgyzstan and was established by the first President, Askar Akayev, in 1991. The main responsibilities of the National Guard include protecting the constitutional order, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country, as well as safeguarding strategic objects. The Honor Guard Battalion participates in state ceremonies and military parades, representing Kyrgyzstan abroad. National Guard Day is not a non-working day unless it falls on a weekend, and it serves to honor the service and commitment of the National Guard personnel.