MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Both the Air and Army components of the Kansas National Guard were activated to support critical wildland firefighting operations in support of state domestic operations May 15-21, 2026.
Operating under the direction of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, KSNG forces mobilized to provide vital prevention and response capabilities to civil authorities. This joint effort utilized the 184th Wing and multiple Army Guard units, demonstrating the Guard’s robust capacity for rapid interagency support.
The activation saw forces successfully deploy with all required resources across multiple key locations in the state, including the Kansas Training Center and Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range in Salina, as well as Clark, Meade, and other locations in Southwest Kansas.
Despite the rapid, time-sensitive nature of the taskings, which included the short-notice mobilization of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers serving as air-to-ground liaisons, personnel met the operational demands. Service members integrated with civilian agencies on the ground, and delivered essential capabilities needed to combat the widespread fires.
The activation helped protect local communities and highlighted the readiness, flexibility, and dedication of our Kansas Guardsmen.
