NY Air National Guard

• Origins in World War I: The New York Air National Guard traces its roots back to 1917, when the 1st Aero Company was formed in Mineola, NY, making it one of the oldest air units in the United States. • Largest State Air Guard: The NY Air National Guard is the largest Air National Guard contingent in the country, with over 5,800 members serving across several wings and squadrons. • 9/11 Response: Following the September 11 attacks, NY Air National Guard members were among the first military responders, providing crucial support in New York City. • Operation Deep Freeze: The 109th Airlift Wing operates the only ski-equipped LC-130 aircraft in the world, supporting missions to Antarctica since 1988. • First Jet Air Defense: The 102nd Fighter-Interceptor Wing (now the 105th Airlift Wing) was among the first Air National Guard units to fly jet fighters, operating the F-94 Starfire in the 1950s. • Space Shuttle Recovery: NY Air National Guard crews assisted in search and rescue operations for downed Space Shuttle Challenger debris in 1986. • Hurricane Relief: Units from the NY Air Guard have been repeatedly mobilized for humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including Hurricane Katrina (2005) and Hurricane Sandy (2012). • Global Reach: The 105th Airlift Wing operates C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, enabling rapid deployment of troops and supplies worldwide, including recent missions to Afghanistan and Iraq. • Presidential Support: The 106th Rescue Wing, based at Gabreski Air National Guard Base, has provided air-sea rescue coverage for space shuttle launches and supported presidential security missions. • First Female Wing Commander: In 2016, Col. Michele Kilgore became the first female commander of the 109th Airlift Wing, marking a milestone for women in the NY Air National Guard.