About this Unit
The 185th Aviation Brigade is a unit of the United States Army, headquartered in Mississippi as part of the Mississippi Army National Guard. Originally constituted in 1986, the brigade has provided aviation support, including helicopter operations, air assault, and logistical missions. The 185th has deployed elements in support of major operations such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, earning recognition for its professionalism and mission success. Throughout its history, the brigade has played a vital role in both domestic emergency response and overseas contingency operations, supporting both combat and humanitarian efforts.
Historical Facts
• Mississippi Roots: The 185th Aviation Brigade is a unit of the Mississippi Army National Guard, headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, and has played a vital role in state and federal missions since its inception.
• Established in 1986: The brigade was officially organized on 1 September 1986, initially as the 185th Aviation Group, before later being redesignated as a brigade.
• Hurricane Katrina Response: The 185th was instrumental in providing aviation support and disaster relief during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, conducting search and rescue, evacuation, and supply missions.
• Global Deployments: Elements of the brigade have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, providing critical aviation support and medevac capabilities.
• Multi-State Composition: While headquartered in Mississippi, the brigade commands aviation units from several states, including Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida, demonstrating a wide regional reach.
• Modern Aircraft: The 185th Aviation Brigade is equipped with a variety of advanced helicopters, including the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook, supporting diverse mission sets.
• Aerial Firefighting: The brigade has assisted in fighting wildfires in the western United States, utilizing their helicopters’ water buckets to help contain and extinguish fires.
• “Above the Best” Motto: The brigade’s motto, “Above the Best,” reflects their commitment to excellence in aviation operations and support.
• Training Missions: The 185th regularly conducts intense training exercises, such as medevac drills, air assault operations, and joint training with other military and first responder organizations.
• Support to Civil Authorities: In addition to combat operations, the brigade frequently supports civil authorities during natural disasters, search and rescue missions, and homeland security operations, exemplifying the National Guard’s dual mission.
