ABOUT Alabama Air National Guard
- Formation and Early Years: The Alabama Air National Guard (AL ANG) was officially established on 21 January 1947, making it one of the earliest Air National Guard units formed after World War II.
- The 117th Air Refueling Wing: Headquartered in Birmingham, the 117th traces its lineage back to the 117th Tactical Reconnaissance Group, which flew combat missions in World War II’s European Theater.
- Operation “Ready Go” (1948): In one of the first major Air National Guard exercises, Alabama ANG units participated in a cross-country deployment to test rapid mobilization and operational capabilities.
- Desegregation and Civil Rights: The AL ANG, like other military units in the Deep South, played a role in the region’s gradual integration during the Civil Rights Movement, adapting to federal policies that mandated desegregation.
- Berlin Crisis of 1961: The 117th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing was mobilized for federal service during the Berlin Crisis, deploying personnel and aircraft to France in support of NATO.
- “Bay of Pigs” Involvement: In 1961, pilots from the AL ANG covertly flew B-26 Invaders for the CIA during the failed Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba, though this connection was kept secret for decades.
- Hurricane Katrina Response: The Alabama ANG provided vital airlift, communications, and support operations during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, helping to rescue and aid thousands of Gulf Coast residents.
- Global War on Terror: Since 2001, AL ANG units have been continuously involved in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, flying refueling and reconnaissance missions overseas.
- First Female Wing Commander: In 2018, Colonel Tara D. McKennie became the first woman to serve as wing commander in the Alabama Air National Guard, marking a significant milestone in the unit’s history.
- Community Engagement: The Alabama ANG is known for its community support roles, from participating in air shows and STEM education initiatives to providing disaster relief and public health support throughout the state.