National Guard Day is observed in Tajikistan every September 3 to honor the contributions of the National Guard, a paramilitary unit responsible for ensuring public safety and security. This day highlights the National Guard's role in protecting the president and senior government officials, as well as guarding important state facilities and maintaining the country's independence. The National Guard, which reports directly to the President of Tajikistan, has its origins in the Special Missions Brigade formed in 1992 during the civil war. It was restructured and renamed the National Guard in 2004 following significant transformations and legal reforms. Celebrations typically include a military parade in Dushanbe, featuring thousands of guardsmen and officers, where the president congratulates the National Guard members on their professional holiday.