AUGUST 4, 2026 – The Puerto Rico National Guard has distributed more than 505,000 gallons of water as of July 31 in support of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority under Mission Clear Source, an ongoing mission assisting communities across the island. The milestone comes as Puerto Rico faces worsening drought conditions and water-rationing measures in affected … [Read more...]
Washington Guard Responds to Wildfires Across State
AUGUST 4, 2026 — As wildfires spread across Washington state, Washington National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have joined the firefight, working alongside state and local partners to protect threatened communities, property and critical infrastructure. Washington Army National Guard aviation crews began providing sustained aerial firefighting support July 19 using two UH-60 … [Read more...]
Guard Unit at the Forefront of Army Transformation
AUGUST 3, 2026 – The Virginia National Guard’s 116th Mobile Brigade Combat Team, or MBCT, discussed the Army National Guard’s modernization efforts during the Army Current Operations Engagement Tour, highlighting lessons learned from becoming the first National Guard brigade to complete a Joint Readiness Training Center, or JRTC, rotation under the Army’s new Mobile Brigade … [Read more...]
Oregon Guard Aircrews Support Wildfire Response
JULY 31, 2026 — Two Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopters and two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters began water bucket operations July 29 in support of wildland firefighting efforts on the Hagen Fire in Umatilla County. The mission is part of the Oregon National Guard’s broader response to the state’s 2026 wildfire season. As of July 29, the Hagen Fire had burned … [Read more...]
Guard Trains with New Hoist Rescue System
JULY 30, 2026 — Soldiers assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 189th General Support Aviation Battalion, recently completed instructor certification on the VITA Rescue System, a new hoist rescue capability that enhances stability during helicopter rescue operations and improves patient recovery in challenging environments. The two-day training brought together … [Read more...]