The Operational Air National Guard: Relationship Changes and Policy Implications

: Recent statute and policy changes have been instituted to expedite access to Air National Guard (ANG) forces in peacetime in an effort to maintain an Operational ANG after U.S. withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan. Operationalizing the ANG has the potential to cause profound changes in the long standing complex relationships between the ANG, the nation, the Air Force, civilian employers, and the ANG members themselves. The Air Force must be measured and deliberate when exercising current authorities, seeking new authorities and establishing policies as the Air Force redefines these relationships in support of an operational ANG.