Kansas Air National Guard

• Origins in World War I: The Kansas Air National Guard (KAN ANG) traces its roots to the 127th Observation Squadron, formed on 4 August 1941, making it one of the oldest Air National Guard units in the United States. • First Federal Activation: The unit was first called to federal service in September 1941, prior to the United States’ entry into World War II, and played a critical role in observation and reconnaissance missions. • Home to the "Jayhawks": The 190th Air Refueling Wing, based in Topeka, is nicknamed the "Kansas Coyotes" and operates the KC-135R Stratotanker, supporting both national defense and humanitarian missions worldwide. • Support of Operation Desert Storm: During the 1991 Gulf War, KAN ANG units were mobilized to provide air refueling and airlift support, demonstrating their global reach. • Disaster Response at Home: The Kansas Air National Guard has played a vital role in responding to natural disasters in Kansas, including tornadoes, floods, and the Greensburg tornado in 2007. • Distinguished F-16 Operations: The 184th Wing, based at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, formerly operated F-16 Fighting Falcons before transitioning to an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) mission. • Post-9/11 Deployments: Following the September 11 attacks, Kansas Air Guardsmen were among the first to provide security for airports and deploy overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. • Unique Intelligence Mission: The 184th Wing now operates the largest Intelligence Wing in the Air National Guard, supporting global ISR operations and cyber defense. • Women in the Ranks: The Kansas Air National Guard has a proud history of integrating women into its ranks, with women serving in critical roles since the 1970s. • Community and Youth Programs: The KAN ANG actively supports community programs such as the Kansas STARBASE program, introducing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to elementary students.