Oklahoma National Guard

Oklahoma National Guard. The Oklahoma National Guard is a dual-status military force, serving both the state of Oklahoma under the authority of its governor and the federal government of the United States. It comprises the Oklahoma Army National Guard and the Oklahoma Air National Guard, with its headquarters located in Oklahoma City. The force traces its origins to territorial militias before statehood and has been activated for numerous domestic emergencies, overseas combat deployments, and national defense missions.

History

The lineage of the force begins with volunteer militias in the Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory during the late 19th century, such as units that served in the Spanish–American War. Following statehood in 1907, the militia was formally organized, with early elements mobilized for the Pancho Villa Expedition and World War I, where the 36th Infantry Division and the 90th Infantry Division included many Oklahoma soldiers. During World War II, Oklahoma units like the 45th Infantry Division fought in key campaigns including the invasion of Sicily, the Battle of Anzio, and the invasion of Southern France. The Korean War saw the activation of the 45th Infantry Division, while elements served in Vietnam and later during the Cold War. The modern era has included extensive deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Global War on Terrorism.

Organization

The command structure is led by the Adjutant General of Oklahoma, a state cabinet-level official who reports to the Governor of Oklahoma. The force falls under the Oklahoma Department of the Military for state operations and the federal National Guard Bureau. Major Army units include the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which is part of the 40th Infantry Division, and the 90th Troop Command. The Air component is centered on the 137th Special Operations Wing at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base and the 138th Fighter Wing at Tulsa Air National Guard Base, which flies the F-16C/D Fighting Falcon.

Missions and operations

Its domestic mission includes responding to state emergencies such as tornadoes, wildfires, and ice storms under the authority of the Governor of Oklahoma, often working with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Notable state activations were for disaster relief after the 1999 Bridge Creek-Moore tornado and the 2013 Moore tornado. Federal overseas deployments have been frequent since 2001, with units serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve. The force also supports national security missions like Operation Noble Eagle and partners with allied nations through the State Partnership Program, being paired with the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Equipment and facilities

The Army Guard utilizes a range of vehicles including the Stryker armored vehicle, Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and M109A6 Paladin howitzer. Aviation assets include UH-60L Black Hawk and CH-47F Chinook helicopters operated by the 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Regiment. Key installations are the Oklahoma National Guard Headquarters at the Oklahoma Military Department complex in Oklahoma City, Camp Gruber near Braggs, which is a major training center, and Will Rogers Air National Guard Base. The Air Guard's 138th Fighter Wing operates from Tulsa International Airport.

Notable members

Prominent individuals who have served include General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, who was the first Adjutant General of Oklahoma in 1911. Major General James C. Bass served as the Adjutant General of Oklahoma and commanded the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Iraq. Sergeant Major of the Army William G. Bainbridge served in the 45th Infantry Division. Brigadier General Thomas P. Mancino has served as the Adjutant General of Oklahoma. Oklahoma City mayor Mick Cornett served as a public affairs officer. Medal of Honor recipient Ernest Childers, a Muscogee (Creek) citizen, served with the 45th Infantry Division in World War II.

Category:Oklahoma National Guard Category:State defense forces of the United States Category:Military in Oklahoma