Leadership of the North Dakota Air National Guard Chain of Command

Vision 
 
Our vision is to be the premiere Air National Guard Unit in the nation.
 
 
119th Wing Mission 
 
Provide well disciplined, highly trained and equipped professional forces to the United States Air Force and the governor to defend our nation and state from any threats to the safety and well being of our citizens.  
 
Our Flying Mission 
 
The 119th Wing is comprised of two squadrons, the newly created 177th Airlift Squadron and the 178th Reconnaissance Squadron, formerly the 178th Fighter Squadron.   
 
Air National Guard State Mission 
 
When Air National Guard units are not mobilized or under federal control, they report to the governor of their respective state, territory (Puerto Rico, Guam, Virgin Islands) or the commanding general of the District of Columbia National Guard. Each of the 54 National Guard organizations is supervised by the adjutant general of the state or territory. Under state law, the Air National Guard provides protection of life, property and preserves peace, order and public safety. These missions are accomplished through emergency relief support during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and forest fires; search and rescue operations; support to civil defense authorities; maintenance of vital public services and counterdrug operations.
 
 
Air National Guard Federal Mission 
 
The Air National Guard's federal mission is to maintain well-trained, well-equipped units available for prompt mobilization during war and provide assistance during national emergencies (such as natural disasters or civil disturbances). During peacetime, the combat-ready units and support units are assigned to most Air Force major commands to carry out missions compatible with training, mobilization readiness, humanitarian and contingency operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Air National Guard units may be activated in a number of ways as prescribed by public law. Most of the laws may be found in Title 10 of the U.S. Code.

The Air National Guard provides almost half of the Air Force's tactical airlift support, combat communications functions, aeromedical evacuations and aerial refueling. In addition, the Air National Guard has total responsibility for air defense of the entire United States.