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| A crewmember with Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion 238th Aviation, hangs from an UH-60 Blackhawk during a medical air evacuation training flight near Morehead, Ky., July 26, 2018. The MEDEVAC unit trained over water, buildings and difficult terrain to sharpen their skills for both home and abroad missions. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin Crane) |
The Kentucky National Guard comprises approximately 7,500 Soldiers and Airmen in the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard, which are components of the United States Army and the United States Air Force, respectively.
The National Guard is unique because it is the only military force in the world with a dual mission: federal and state.
Kentucky National Guard Soldiers train to assist the federal government in combat and peace-time missions. Since Sept. 11, 2001 the Kentucky National Guard has mobilized and deployed more than 18,000 Soldiers and Airmen in support of the Global War on Terror.
The Kentucky National Guard remains ready to assist communities with disasters on the homefront. Whether it is a flood, tornado, snow or ice storm – or providing security for high-profile events such as the Kentucky Derby – the Kentucky National Guard is here for the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Vision
The premier unit-based force of Citizen-Soldiers, maintaining a relevant force structure spanning all warfighting functions serving the Nation. At home, the Kentucky National Guard fully postures leaders and units to respond to a complex catastrophe on the worst night in the Commonwealth. Simultaneously, we deliver a sense of purpose, worth, and well-being to Guardsmen, their families, and employers thereby connecting to Main Street Kentucky.
"Fight as Kentuckians"
The Kentucky National Guard is a direct reflection of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and its storied history. Kentuckians have fought and distinguished themselves in every major U.S. conflict since 1775. Early frontiersmen fought for self-preservation, for their homes and their families. Known as explorers, builders, and farmers, Kentuckians were also renowned for their marksmanship, and particularly, their “Kentucky Windage,” whether hunting or in defense of the American way of life.
Today, Kentuckians remain warriors, loyal to their organization and to their leadership; but that loyalty must be earned every day. It requires strong, resilient leadership to lead a Kentuckian into battle. If done well, the organization will be rewarded with a loyalty fiercely defended through preparation, strength and a will to always stand united. Whether outnumbered or in unknown territory, Kentucky Guardsmen fight with a ‘grit’ and competence in self and weapon that has stood out since the explorations of Daniel Boone. When America calls, Soldiers and Airmen of Kentucky will answer and always “Fight as Kentuckians."