Massachusetts Air National Guard facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Massachusetts Air National Guard
Shield of the Massachusetts Air National Guard
Active	18 November 1921 - present
Country	United States of America
Allegiance	United States of America  Massachusetts
Branch	United States Air Force
Role	"To meet commonwealth and federal mission responsibilities."
Part of	Air National Guard Massachusetts National Guard
Garrison/HQ	Massachusetts Air National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters-Massachusetts, 2 Randolph Road, Hanscom Air Force Base, MA 01731
Commanders
Civilian leadership	President Joe Biden (Commander-in-Chief) Frank Kendall III (Secretary of the Air Force) Governor Charlie Baker (Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Military Forces)
Commonwealth military leadership	Major General Gary W. Keefe
Aircraft flown
Fighter	F-15C Eagle

The Massachusetts Air National Guard (MA ANG) is like the air force for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It is part of the Massachusetts National Guard, which also includes the Massachusetts Army National Guard.

These units are special because they are not always under the regular United States Air Force command. They usually report to the Governor of Massachusetts. However, the President of the United States can call them into federal service if needed. The Massachusetts Air National Guard has its main office at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts.

What is the Massachusetts Air National Guard?

The Massachusetts Air National Guard is a key part of the "Total Force" idea. This means they work closely with the regular Air Force. Air Force trains and equips these units. If they are called into federal service, they become part of a larger Air Force command.

How the Guard Helps

Members of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, called Airmen, can be sent on missions anywhere. They work alongside active duty Air Force members and Air Force Reserve members. This helps the United States be ready for anything.

Besides federal duties, the Massachusetts Air Guard also helps their home state. The Governor can activate them for state emergencies. This includes protecting people and property. They help keep peace and public safety. Their state missions include:

• Helping after natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods.
• Fighting forest fires.
• Finding and rescuing people.
• Protecting important public services.
• Supporting civil defense efforts.

Important Units of the Guard

The Massachusetts Air National Guard has several main units. Each unit has a special job.

102nd Intelligence Wing

This unit started on November 18, 1921. It was first known as the 101st Observation Squadron.

• Where they are: Otis Air National Guard Base, Mashpee.
• What they do: This unit does not fly planes. Instead, they analyze information. They look at data from sensors and other sources. This helps them give quick updates to military leaders. These updates help leaders make smart decisions in battle.

104th Fighter Wing

This unit was formed on February 24, 1947. It was first called the 131st Fighter Squadron.

• What they fly: They operate F-15C/D Eagle fighter jets.
• Where they are: Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield.
• What they do: The 104th Fighter Wing supports the Air Force during wartime. They also do many peacetime missions. This includes keeping an active "Air Sovereignty Alert." This means they are ready to protect the skies over the United States at all times.

253rd Cyberspace Engineering Installation Group

• Where they are: Otis Air National Guard Base.
• What they do: This group trains Airmen to be ready to deploy quickly. They provide important communication services. They also help with air traffic control. This supports Air Force needs and other emergency situations around the world.

History of the Guard

The 131st Fighter Squadron was officially recognized in February 1947. It was organized by Lyle E. Halstead.