Texas Air National Guard

• Founding Date: The Texas Air National Guard (TXANG) was officially established on July 27, 1947, making it one of the earliest Air National Guard units formed after the creation of the U.S. Air Force. • Key Role in the Berlin Airlift: Members of the Texas Air National Guard participated in the historic Berlin Airlift (1948–1949), helping deliver vital supplies to the blockaded city. • Presidential Service: Future U.S. President George W. Bush served as a pilot in the 147th Fighter Interceptor Group of the Texas Air National Guard during the 1960s and 1970s. • Hurricane Harvey Response: In 2017, the TXANG played a critical role in rescue and relief operations during Hurricane Harvey, saving thousands of lives with airlift and evacuation missions. • First Jet Aircraft: The 111th Fighter Squadron, part of the Texas ANG, became one of the first Air National Guard units to receive jet aircraft (F-84 Thunderjets) in the early 1950s. • Global Deployments: Texas Air National Guard units have deployed to support operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, and other regions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and NATO missions. • Space Operations: The 147th Attack Wing at Ellington Field has a mission that includes not only flying MQ-9 Reaper drones but also supporting space operations under the United States Space Force. • Disaster Support at Home: TXANG is frequently activated for state emergencies, including wildfires, floods, and border security missions, reflecting its dual state-federal mission. • Historic Squadrons: The 111th Squadron, based in Houston, traces its lineage back to 1923, making it one of the oldest flying units in the Air National Guard. • Modernization: In recent years, the Texas Air National Guard has modernized its fleet by transitioning to advanced aircraft such as the MQ-9 Reaper, reflecting the increasing importance of unmanned aerial systems.