Approximately 14 staff members of Maryland Congressional Delegates toured the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, August 21, 2019, at Martin State Airport, Middle River, Md. The visit was designed to increase understanding by enabling direct observation and engagement with Maryland National Guard members and programs.
The group was briefed by Maryland National Guard units and partners, including the Free State Challenge Program, Maryland Defense Force and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency. Staffers were able to interact with Airman and Soldiers as well as view exhibits of Maryland National Guard assets like unmanned aerial systems, a mobile analytical lab sweep truck, a static A-10C Thunderbolt II and participate in an orientation flight over Baltimore in a UH-60 Black Hawk.
“It was a great visit as we continue to build on our current relationships with our state and local leaders,” said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Muggli, 175th Wing Command Chief, Maryland Air National Guard. “With the evolving capabilities of the Maryland Air National Guard these opportunities give us a chance to tell our story to the Congressional Staffers."
This event was intended to continue building relationships with state and local government providing an opportunity for communication and awareness of what the Maryland National Guard can contribute to meet both the state and federal objectives.
“I hope our congressional delegates get a really good sense of how wide and deep the guards reach is,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Adam Flasch, Director of Joint Staff, Maryland National Guard. “If they can walk away with the understanding of how much goes into our regular training cycle, where we serve in our communities, and how much of a difference our organization can make to our citizens, then, today would have been a success.”
The Maryland National Guard will continue to host events for the public and civic leaders to create awareness of MDNG programs and support capabilities.