117 ARW  In-depth Overview

The Air National Guard (ANG) is administered by the National Guard Bureau, a joint bureau of the departments of the Army and Air Force, and is the principal organization in Washington, D.C. that operates on behalf of the 54 states and territories of the National Guard (NG), working to ensure the almost half-a-million NG Soldiers and Airmen are trained and resourced to meet the needs of our Nation and the various governors in times of war and domestic emergency.

The Air National Guard’s federal mission is to maintain well-trained, well-equipped units available for prompt mobilization during war and provide assistance during national emergencies (such as natural disasters or civil disturbances). During peacetime, the combat-ready units and support units are assigned to most Air Force major commands to carry out missions compatible with training, mobilization readiness, humanitarian and contingency operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. 

When Air National Guard units are not mobilized or under federal control, they report to the governor of their respective state, territory (Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands) or to the commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard. Each of the 54 National Guard organizations is supervised by the adjutant general of the state or territory. Under state law, the Air National Guard provides protection of life, property and preserves peace, order and public safety. These missions are accomplished through emergency relief support during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and forest fires; search and rescue operations; support to civil defense authorities; maintenance of vital public services and counterdrug operations.

The Air National Guard Airman and Family Readiness Program provides assistance, guidance, and support that enhances the quality of life for service members and their families during peacetime and upon mobilization. This includes personal, financial, family, and community readiness, deployment cycle support, crisis intervention, transition assistance, outreach, training, management, information, referral and follow-up, life skills education, review and analysis of program effectiveness, and volunteer program management.