Kansas National Guard facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Kansas National Guard
Active	August 30, 1855 – present
Country	United States of America
Allegiance	State of Kansas
Part of	U.S. National Guard
Commanders
Current commander	Governor Laura Kelly
Current TAG	Major General Lee Tafanelli

The Kansas National Guard is a special part of the United States National Guard. It serves the U.S. state of Kansas. This group includes two main parts: the Kansas Army National Guard and the Kansas Air National Guard.

When the Kansas National Guard is helping within the state, the Governor of Kansas is their top leader. This means the Governor is the Commander-in-Chief. The military leader of the Guard in Kansas is called the Adjutant General of Kansas. This person is the second most powerful leader for the Guard in the state, right after the Governor.

What is the National Guard?

The National Guard is a unique military force in the United States. It is different from the regular Army or Air Force. Members of the National Guard are often called "citizen-soldiers" or "citizen-airmen." This is because they usually have civilian jobs or go to school. They train part-time, often one weekend a month and two weeks a year.

Serving State and Nation

The National Guard has two main jobs. First, they help their home state during emergencies. Second, they can be called upon by the U.S. government to help the country.

• State Missions: When a disaster happens in Kansas, like a flood or a tornado, the Kansas National Guard steps in. They help people stay safe, deliver supplies, and clean up. They also help with security during big events.
• Federal Missions: The President of the United States can also ask the National Guard to serve the country. This might mean helping in other states or even going overseas. They can support military operations or humanitarian efforts around the world.

Kansas Army National Guard

The Kansas Army National Guard is the ground force part of the Kansas National Guard. Its members are trained like regular soldiers. They learn many skills, such as how to operate vehicles, use communication systems, and provide medical aid.

What Army Guard Members Do

These soldiers are ready for many different tasks. They might help with search and rescue missions after a storm. They could also build temporary shelters or deliver food and water to people in need. When called for federal duty, they can join U.S. Army missions.

Kansas Air National Guard

The Kansas Air National Guard is the aviation part of the Kansas National Guard. Its members are trained to operate and maintain aircraft. They also handle air defense and support missions.

What Air Guard Members Do

Airmen in the Kansas Air Guard work with different types of airplanes. They might fly cargo planes to transport supplies. They also work on communication systems and provide air traffic control. Like the Army Guard, they help during state emergencies and can support U.S. Air Force missions.

Who Leads the Kansas National Guard?

The leadership of the Kansas National Guard is very important. It ensures the Guard is ready for any challenge.

The Governor's Role

The Governor of Kansas is the highest leader of the Kansas National Guard. They decide when the Guard is needed to help within the state. For example, if there's a big snowstorm, the Governor can activate the Guard to clear roads.

The Adjutant General

The Adjutant General of Kansas is a high-ranking military officer. This person is in charge of the day-to-day operations of the Kansas National Guard. They make sure the Guard members are well-trained and equipped. They also manage the Guard's resources and plans.

History of the Kansas National Guard

The Kansas National Guard has a long history. It officially started on August 30, 1855. Over the years, its members have served Kansas and the United States in many ways. They have helped during wars, natural disasters, and other important events. Their dedication helps keep Kansans safe and supports national security.