Governor Kotek Visits Oregon Guard Aviation Crews, Department Of Forestry Reps For An Aerial Wildland Firefighting Update (Photo) - 08/28/26

Governor Kotek visits Oregon Guard aviation crews, Department of Forestry reps for an aerial wildland firefighting update

PENDLETON, Ore. - The Oregon Army National Guard's Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion, hosted Governor Tina Kotek for a state multiagency wildland fire update at Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Pendleton, Oregon, on August 27, 2026. Attendees included Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Oregon’s Adjutant General; Doug Grafe, Wildfire Programs Director; Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Oregon State Fire Marshal; and KC Kacey, Director of the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Representatives from both the Oregon Army National Guard and the Oregon Department of Forestry briefed Governor Kotek on aerial firefighting efforts for the Hagen and Paradise Fires in Umatilla County.

Governor Kotek also received an update from the Oregon Army National Guard on the maintenance of aircraft and water buckets used to support wildland firefighting efforts.

Oregon Army aviation crews were activated in late July under Operation Plan (OPLAN) Smokey, the formal agreement between the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry. This agreement outlines the Oregon National Guard’s support for wildland firefighting operations statewide.

Under standard OPLAN Smokey conditions, the Oregon Army National Guard provides one CH-47 Chinook and two HH-60M helicopters. This summer, crews have operated at surge capacity since July 28, deploying three HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and two CH-47 Chinooks.

As of August 27, Oregon Guard helicopters had dropped 1,398 water buckets, totaling approximately 1.4 million gallons of water during this wildfire season.

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Released photos:

260827-Z-NJ272-1000: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Dan Russell, Commander, Army Aviation Support Facility #2, briefs Governor Tina Kotek, alongside Lindsey Olivera, Pendleton Unit Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry, in Pendleton, Oregon, August 27, 2026. Governor Kotek received briefings from both the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry on air-attack efforts for the Hagen and Paradise Fires, both currently burning in Umatilla County. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1002: Oregon Army National Guard aviation personnel show Oregon Governor Tina Kotek a water bucket being used for fire suppression efforts on the Hagen and Paradise Fires at the Army Aviation Support Facility #2, in Pendleton, Oregon, August 27, 2026. Oregon Guard aviators have been supporting state wildland fire efforts beginning July 28, after completing a day of administrative in-processing for State Active Duty, and have dropped more than 1.4 million gallons of water during the 2026 Wildland Fire Season. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1003: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Taylor Frye, Operations Officer, Army Aviation Support Facility #2, briefs Governor Tina Kotek in Pendleton, Oregon, August 27, 2026. During the visit, Governor Kotek received updates from both the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry on air-attack efforts for the Hagen and Paradise Fires, both currently burning in Umatilla County. (U.S.National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1004: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Dan Russell, Commander, Army Aviation Support Facility #2, briefs Governor Tina Kotek in Pendleton, Oregon, on August 27, 2026. Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General of Oregon, and Maj. Taylor Frye, Operations Officer at AASF #2, also attended. Governor Kotek received updates from the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry on air-attack efforts for the Hagen and Paradise Fires, both burning in Umatilla County. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1008: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Taylor Frye, Operations Officer, Army Aviation Support Facility #2, briefs Governor Tina Kotek in Pendleton, Oregon, August 27, 2026. During the visit, Governor Kotek received updates from both the Oregon Military Department and the Oregon Department of Forestry on air-attack efforts for the Hagen and Paradise Fires, both currently burning in Umatilla County. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1009: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion, along with members of Golf Company, 1-189th Aviation, listen as Governor Tina Kotek shares her appreciation for their work supporting wildland fire suppression efforts during a visit to Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Pendleton, Oregon, on August 27, 2026. Soldiers from the unit have been supporting the Hagen and Paradise Fires in coordination with the Oregon Department of Forestry since completing administrative onboarding on July 27, 2026. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

260827-Z-NJ272-1012: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Detachment 1, Bravo Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion together with members of Golf Company, 1-189th Aviation, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General - Oregon, Doug Grafe, Wildfire Programs Director, Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Oregon State Fire Marshal, and KC Kacey, Director, Oregon Department of Forestry, stand in front of an Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopter following the Governor’s visit to Army Aviation Support Facility #2, in Pendleton, Oregon, August 27, 2026. Soldiers from the unit have been supporting the Hagen and Paradise Fires in coordination with the Oregon Department of Forestry since completing administrative onboarding on July 27, 2026. (U.S. National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Oregon Army National Guardsmen Mobilized For Overseas Assignment (Photo) - 08/27/26

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. - The Oregon Army National Guard's 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment was honored at a deployment ceremony on August 26, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. Family members, fellow Guard soldiers, and dignitaries attended, including Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read and District 39 House Representative April Dobson.

Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Oregon's Adjutant General, served as Presiding Officer. During the ceremony, seven Oregon Citizen-Soldiers were mobilized to support joint operations in Europe following pre-deployment training at Fort Hood, Texas.

“The 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, known as the MPAD, is a small group, but its ability to reach and influence audiences around the world is undeniable, Gronewold said, highlighting their unique skills. “These service members work directly distributing photo and video content to social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X. They truly fulfill the Department of War obligation to keep the American people informed.”

The 115th MPAD has a proud tradition of sharing the Oregon National Guard’s story wherever its Soldiers serve, from combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan to multinational exercises in Europe, as well as supporting the Department of Defense State Partnership Program and missions across Oregon. Through photography, video, journalism, and public engagement, their work documents events as they happen and preserves the history of the United States military.

“It’s both a privilege and honor for me to stand here today and for just the second time as the battalion commander that I will send citizen-soldiers forward to support federal missions,” said Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, 821st Troop Command Battalion Commander. “I appreciate everything you’ve done to prepare and what you're about to embark upon for us.”

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Released Photos:

260826-Z-CH590-1015: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (right) and Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, 821st Troop Command Battalion Commander (center), along with members of the 115thMobile Public Affairs Detachment, stand at attention for the playing of the National Anthem during the unit’s mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, Happy Valley, Oregon, on Aug 26, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1017: The unit Guidon for the 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment is presented to those in attendance at the unit's formal mobilization ceremony on Aug. 16, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1024: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard (left), Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read (center), and District 39 House Representative April Dobson (right), greet soldiers assigned to the 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment during the conclusion of their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, Happy Valley, Oregon, on Aug. 26, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1048 and 1112: Members of the Oregon Army National Guard’s 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on Aug 26, 2026. Seven members will first complete pre-deployment training at Fort Hood, Texas, before their assignment in Europe. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1083: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment as they are mobilized on Aug. 26, 2026, for their upcoming assignment in Europe. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1067: Dignitaries and military officials attend the mobilization ceremony for the 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on Aug. 26, 2026.  (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260826-Z-CH590-1121: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, 821st Troop Command Battalion Commander, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment as they are mobilized for an overseas assignment in Europe on Aug. 26, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

The Oregon National Guard Hosts A Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony For Recent Renovations At The Ashland Armory (Photo) - 08/25/26

ASHLAND, Ore. - A formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony marking the recent completion of renovations at the Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory was held on August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon.

Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon, served as the presiding officer for the event, joined by elected officials, City of Ashland representatives, and Oregon National Guard dignitaries.

In a historic 1911 special election, Ashland residents voted overwhelmingly (427 to 73) to tax themselves to help build the original armory, designed by William C. Knighton, Oregon's first State Architect. The current Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory at 1420 E. Main Street, a 22,620-square-foot building, was built in 1988 and serves full-time and part–time traditional National Guardsmen from the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry.

"Long before the state and federal government stepped in, this community decided that the Oregon National Guard belonged here in Ashland," Gronewold said, after welcoming current and past serving Soldiers of the Oregon Army National Guard along with members of the community. "We honor the same spirit of local support from 1911, ensuring that the National Guard will have a home here in Ashland for at least another 25 years."

The updates to the armory include modernization of the building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as the replacement of failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. These upgrades not only enhance the armory's daily functionality but also ensure it remains a durable and effective facility for ongoing training and mission preparedness.  

The Armory Service Life Extension Program (ASLEP) and Regional Emergency Enhancement Program (REEP) project received approval and funding to move forward in 2023.

"Long after today's ribbon is cut, this armory will continue to do what it has done since the people of Ashland first voted to build here. Standing watch, ensuring continued readiness and remaining part of the community," Gronewold said.

The 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, has a distinguished lineage dating back to the Ashland Mountain Rangers and the Southern Oregon Volunteers in the 1860s. Officially constituted in 1921, the regiment earned battle honors in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including in Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. In recent decades, the Battalion has supported global operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Horn of Africa. It has also provided critical domestic disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina and security support for the United States Capitol during the 59th Presidential Inauguration.

"Countless young men and women walk through these doors, taking their first steps as soldiers, and within these walls, thousands of experienced leaders have helped prepare the next generation to carry our mission forward," said Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment. "As we celebrate this occasion today, let us remember that while buildings may be renovated, it is the people who leave legacies."

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Released Photos:

260825-Z-CH590-1003: A display of memorabilia and other artifacts is on view during the ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony for the recently updated Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory, held August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. The armory project includes modernizing building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1013: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon (left), and Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment (right), along with other members of the Ashland community, stand for the National Anthem during the ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony for the recently updated Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory, August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. The project includes modernizing the building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1022-1023: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon; Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment; and other members of the Ashland community came together to cut the ribbon at the rededication ceremony of the Ashland Army National Guard Armory on August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. The project involved collaborative efforts to modernize the building, including interior and exterior upgrades and parking lot improvements, demonstrating a shared commitment to community progress. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)(Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1026: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott delivers the benediction to close the formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony for the recently updated Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory, August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. The project includes modernizing building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1041: The Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory opened its doors for a formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony on August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. The armory project includes modernizing building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1085: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon, delivers remarks to attendees at the formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory, on August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. This armory project includes modernizing building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260825-Z-CH590-1120: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Joshua Rapp, Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, addresses attendees at the formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony for the Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory on August 25, 2026, in Ashland, Oregon. This armory project includes modernizing building finishes, such as interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, and stainless-steel kitchen counters, as well as replacing failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

The Oregon National Guard To Host Ribbon-cutting Ceremony For Renovations At The Ashland Armory (Photo) - 08/24/26

MEDIA ADVISORY

OREGON MILITARY DEPARTMENT

SALEM, Ore. - A formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony marking the completion of renovations at the Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory is scheduled for Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at 1420 E. Main Street, Ashland, Oregon.

Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, will preside over the event, joined by elected officials, City of Ashland representatives, and Oregon National Guard dignitaries.

In a historic 1911 special election, Ashland residents voted overwhelmingly (427 to 73) to tax themselves to help build the original armory designed by William C. Knighton, Oregon's first State Architect. The current Oregon Army National Guard Ashland Armory at 1420 E. Main Street was built in 1988 as a 22,620-square-foot facility and serves full-time and part–time traditional National Guardsmen from the 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry.

“The very foundation of the Guard in Ashland was built on a community vote. Our current state-funded investment honors that 1911 spirit of local support,” Gronewold said.

The Armory Service Life Extension Program (ASLEP) and Regional Emergency Enhancement Program (REEP) project was given approval and funding to move forward in 2023.

The updates to the armory include modernization of the building finishes, including interior and exterior paint, exterior wood accents, main entry foyer wood accents, new carpet, polished floors, stainless steel kitchen counters, and replacement of failing pavement and curbing in the parking lot. These improvements will ensure that Ashland Armory continues to serve as a cornerstone of training, readiness, and community engagement over the next 25 years.

Media representatives wishing to attend may contact Major Leslie Reed, Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department. 503-990-0178

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Ashland Armory File Photo:

​110305-Z-RW508-1002: Oregon Army National Guard Honor Guard prepares for the gun salute during the memorial service of retired Col. Christian P. Hald at the Ashland Army National Guard Armory, Ashland, Oregon, on March 5, 2011. (File Photo by Staff Sgt. David Overson, 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

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The Oregon National Guard Hosts Formal Ribbon-cutting Ceremony For Renovations At The Corvallis Armory (Photo) - 08/20/26

The Oregon National Guard hosts formal ribbon-cutting ceremony for renovations at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon National Guard held a formal ribbon-cutting and rededication ceremony on August 20, 2026, to mark the completion of renovations at the Oregon Army National Guard Corvallis Armory.

Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, presided over the ceremony. Aimee Kotek Wilson, First Lady of Oregon, delivered special remarks to attendees from the Corvallis community at the ceremony.

“For over 130 years, the Oregon National Guard has been part of the Corvallis landscape. Long before this building at 1100 N.W. Kings Boulevard existed, Citizen-Soldiers from this community were already answering the call to serve,” Gronewold said. “When the state and federal government invested in this site in the 1950s, they weren't simply putting up a building. They were making a promise that Corvallis would always have a place to train, gather, and serve.”

In the 1950s, state and federal governments invested in the facility, recognizing Corvallis as vital to Oregon’s strength and preparedness. To reaffirm this commitment, the State of Oregon and federal partners have allocated over $8.8 million to modernize the armory. These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment and the community for the next 25 years.

“Throughout my career, I’ve tried to make sure people affected by decisions have a real voice, whether that meant bringing students to the Capitol or listening to social workers about what would actually help their patients.” Kotek Wilson said. “Today, that same principle matters here. This armory was rebuilt because the community and the Battalion spoke up about their needs, and Oregon responded.”

Following the ceremony, Gronewold and Kotek Wilson toured the armory to view the renovations and meet with Oregon Military Department members and civilian suppliers involved in the upgrades.

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Released Photos:

260820-Z-CH590-1130: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (left),  Lt. Col. Ryon Skiles, 2-162nd Battalion Commander (right), and Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (center), prepare to cut the ribbon at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, during a ceremony highlighting more than $8.8 million in modernization funding for the armory. These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1133 and 1134: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (left), Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (center), and Lt. Col. Ryon Skiles, 2-162nd Battalion Commander (right), and other dignitaries prepare to cut the ribbon at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, during a ceremony highlighting more than $8.8 million in modernization funding for the armory. These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1135: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (left),  Lt. Col. Ryon Skiles, 2-162nd Battalion Commander (right), and Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (center), cut the ribbon at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, during a ceremony highlighting more than $8.8 million in modernization funding for the armory. These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1107: The official party, consisting of Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (center); Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (right); and Lt. Col. Ryon Skiles, 2-162nd Battalion Commander (left), stands for the playing of the National Anthem during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon.  These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1168: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers formal remarks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon.  These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1227: Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon, delivers formal remarks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon.  These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1144: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon (left), Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (right), review the Architectural designs for the upgrades at the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon.  These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1303: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, Aimee Kotek Wilson, the First Lady of Oregon (right), and other dignitaries tour the Corvallis Army National Guard Armory following the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon.  These upgrades include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260820-Z-CH590-1151: The Corvallis Army National Guard Armory as viewed from the south exterior following the ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Aug. 20, 2026, in Corvallis, Oregon. The $8.8 million upgrades to the armory include seismic fortification, energy-efficiency improvements, and expanded training space for soldiers, ensuring the facility will serve the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, and the community for the next 25 years. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

The Oregon National Guard To Host Ribbon-cutting Ceremony For Renovations At The Corvallis Armory (Photo) - 08/19/26

Oregon Guard Senior Leaders Visit Airmen Fighting Grasshopper Fire (Photo) - 08/17/26

TYGH VALLEY, Ore. — Oregon National Guard senior leaders flew from Salem to the Grasshopper Fire camp aboard an HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter with Golf Company, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation, Aug. 17, 2026, to visit Air National Guard members supporting wildland firefighting operations, thanking the airmen for volunteering to fight one of the state's largest active wildfires.

Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, led the visit alongside Brig. Gen. Jenifer E. Pardy, director of the Joint Staff; Chief Warrant Officer 5 Lenora Landwehr, command chief warrant officer; Chaplain (Col.) Jacob Scott, the state chaplain; and Chief Master Sgt. Brent Cavanias, command senior enlisted leader. Jonna Papaefthimiou, resilience officer for Gov. Tina Kotek's office, also joined the visit to meet with the airmen on the governor's behalf.

"This is a big deal for Oregonians, big deal for the Guard, to go out and see National Guardsmen out fighting fire, doing what we're trained to do," Gronewold told the group. "What we're here to do is protect Oregonians and their property, and you guys are doing that."

The Grasshopper Fire had burned more than 90,000 acres and was 47% contained as of Aug. 17. The fire camp supporting the response has grown to approximately 1,800 personnel, with about 1,550 directly engaged in firefighting operations.

Among the airmen Gronewold and the other leaders met with were Senior Airman Colby Shoals and Senior Airman Connor Carlson, both assigned to the 270th Air Traffic Control Squadron, nicknamed "Chaos," out of the 173rd Fighter Wing. Shoals said the physically demanding work of wildland firefighting fits naturally with the team's usual training.

"It's right up our alley," Shoals said. "What we do day to day at the base, we're already working together out in the field, so it's pretty much another day on the job for us."

Carlson said the team has taken on some of the more physically demanding tasks on the fire line, including carrying water on their backs to perform wet mop-up work.

"We've been able to pick up a lot of those heavier tasks, like carrying a bladder pack on us, so we can do that wet mop-up where it's easier rather than doing dry mop-up," Carlson said.

Shoals said the mission mirrors the teamwork and mutual accountability the airmen already rely on in their day-to-day work.

"Everybody's like a big family there, so everybody has each other's backs," Shoals said. "If somebody looks like they're not doing so well or getting a little tired, everybody's checking on each other."

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1019106/oregon-guard-senior-leaders-visit-airmen-fighting-grasshopper-fire

Released Photos: 

260817-Z-ZJ128-1001
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, addresses Oregon Air National Guard airmen supporting wildland firefighting operations at the Grasshopper Fire camp near Tygh Valley, Ore., Aug. 17, 2026. From left, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Lenora Landwehr, Jonna Papaefthimiou, resilience officer for Gov. Tina Kotek's office, Gronewold and Chief Master Sgt. Brent Cavanias, command senior enlisted leader, joined the airmen during the visit.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260817-Z-ZJ128-1002
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, right, shakes hands with Giovanni Carranza, a California smokejumper serving as a crew boss for one of the Oregon National Guard's hand crews, as fellow crew boss Daniel Schroth looks on at the Grasshopper Fire camp near Tygh Valley, Ore., Aug. 17, 2026. Crew bosses work closely with fire resource advisors to direct where Guard hand crews are employed each day.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260817-Z-ZJ128-1003
Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, fist-bumps an Oregon Air National Guard airman while visiting hand crews supporting wildland firefighting operations at the Grasshopper Fire camp near Tygh Valley, Ore., Aug. 17, 2026.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260817-Z-ZJ128-1004
Chief Master Sgt. Brian Brown, 173rd Fighter Wing, briefs Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, on hand crew employment using an operations map at the Grasshopper Fire camp near Tygh Valley, Ore., Aug. 17, 2026.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260817-Z-ZJ128-1005
Oregon National Guard senior leaders join Oregon Air National Guard hand crews, California smokejumpers and Oregon Department of Forestry personnel for a group photo at the Grasshopper Fire camp near Tygh Valley, Ore., Aug. 17, 2026.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Oregon Guard Helicopter Crew Trades Saving Lives For Saving Homes On Hagen Fire (Photo) - 08/14/26

Oregon Air National Guard Hand Crews Continue Wildfire Fight At Grasshopper Fire (Photo) - 08/09/26

Oregon Air National Guard Hand Crews Activated To Fight Grasshopper Fire (Photo) - 08/07/26

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Air National Guard activated 44 Airmen Aug. 7, 2026, to support wildland firefighting on the Grasshopper Fire in the Mount Hood National Forest, marking the first time in the organization's history that Air National Guard personnel have led the state's ground firefighting response.

"The Oregon National Guard embodies the very best of Oregon – service, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “This activation today reflects our shared resolve to stand together this wildfire season and safeguard the people and places we love."

Two 22-person hand crews, one from the 142nd Wing at Portland Air National Guard Base and one from the 173rd Fighter Wing in Klamath Falls, mobilized today at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem before heading to a fire camp near the Warm Springs area, though the exact location may shift as the fire's footprint changes.

Col. Ryan Barton, deputy commander of the Oregon Joint Domestic Operations Command, said the Oregon Department of Forestry requested the additional ground teams after its own firefighting resources were nearly exhausted.

"Every year it's a really unique thing for the partnership between Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon National Guard to make sure that we're there to be ready to assist when needed," Barton said. "This year is really unique also because normally we'll have the Army ground teams go out first, but the Oregon Air National Guard is the first two teams out the door."

Barton said the mission is expected to last 14 days, with two additional Air National Guard teams on standby if the fire requires further support, followed by Army National Guard ground teams if the mission continues to grow.

As of Aug. 7, approximately 80 Oregon National Guard members were activated in support of the state's wildfire response, including one HH-60M helicopter supporting search and rescue medevac operations, two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and two CH-47 Chinook helicopters flying water bucket missions. Those aircraft have completed 237 water bucket drops, delivering approximately 256,150 gallons of water on Oregon wildfires.

Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's Adjutant General, addressed the departing Airmen before they left for fire camp, calling the moment a significant one for the state.

"This is one of the worst fire seasons Oregon's had in a long time," Gronewold said. "People are losing their homes and their property, and you are going out there to help protect those Oregonians, protect our citizens, and that's part of our job."

Gronewold said the mission reflects a new milestone for the organization.

"This is huge for Oregon citizens to see their National Guard going out and fighting wildland fires," Gronewold said. "It's probably the first time ever that the Air National Guard has led the way on hand crews. Thank you to both wings for stepping up and doing this."

Command Chief Master Sgt. Brent Cavanias, Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard, told the Airmen their work carries weight beyond the fire line.

"Your presence out there is reassuring to Oregonians," Cavanias said. "There's high confidence and trust in the National Guard, and what you do out there is important."

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1018025/oregon-air-national-guard-hand-crews-activated-fight-grasshopper-fire

Released Photos:

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Oregon Air National Guard airmen with the 142nd Wing and 173rd Fighter Wing arrive by charter bus at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, to begin Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration ahead of deploying as part of two 22-person hand crews supporting wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire in the Mount Hood National Forest.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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U.S. Air Force Maj. Jon Hotchkiss welcomes Oregon Air National Guard airmen to a State Active Duty personnel briefing during Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration at Anderson Readiness Center in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, ahead of their deployment to support wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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U.S. Air Force Col. Ryan Barton, deputy commander of the Oregon Joint Domestic Operations Command, addresses Oregon Air National Guard airmen before a State Active Duty personnel briefing during Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration in Salem, Ore., Aug. 7, 2026, ahead of their deployment to support wildland firefighting efforts on the Grasshopper Fire.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Oregon's adjutant general, holds up two fingers to signify the two hand crews activated Aug. 7, 2026, while explaining to Oregon Air National Guard airmen how additional Air and Army Guard crews would be composed if further support is needed, during a State Active Duty personnel briefing in Salem, Ore.

(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

2026 Wildfire-Response.pdf

Oregon Guard Trains Near White City, Gives Community A Hands-on Look At Aug. 1 Event (Photo) - 08/06/26

WHITE CITY, Ore. — Dozens of Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers spent four days training at the Salt Creek Training Area here, July 30 to Aug. 2, 2026, and opened part of that training to the public Aug. 1, giving local recruiters and interested young adults a firsthand look at what a day of Army training looks like.

Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment worked through weapons training, land navigation and small-unit drills in preparation for a demanding Army skills competition next year that tests Soldiers on core combat tasks. Because part of that training involved firing blank ammunition, the Oregon Military Department brought in wildland firefighters from Camp Rilea to stand by throughout the week as an added safety measure.

The Aug. 1 community event let visiting recruiters, students in the Guard's Recruit Sustainment Program and other interested young adults try out some of the same training the Soldiers had been running all week, including hands-on time with several Army weapons systems.

"This event was a great opportunity for future Soldiers to get hands-on training from Soldiers they will serve alongside in the future," said Sgt. 1st Class Erik Andreason, an Oregon Army National Guard recruiter based in Medford. "Some of the NCOs running the lanes were my enlistments over the last few years, some even graduated from the same high schools as the Soldiers enlisting now. They've grown into NCOs and officers, and now the Soldiers I enlisted are going to be responsible for raising the next generation of local troops."

The battalion closed out the training period Aug. 2 with a road march along the Bear Creek Greenway in Medford.

Jeremy Carver, the Oregon Military Department's deputy director of installations, said bringing in fire coverage for the training was simply part of looking out for the surrounding community.

"I called 1SG Warren to get the details and coordinated our fire coverage to prevent a wildfire from starting," Carver said.

Released Photos: 

Here are all four cutlines in order:

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Mychal Taylor, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, instructs Oregon Military Department wildland firefighters as they fire M249 Squad Automatic Weapons loaded with blank ammunition for familiarization at the Salt Creek Training Area near White City, Ore., July 31, 2026.
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Recruit Sustainment Program members and Guard for a Day participants practice hand-and-arm signals during a class with 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, at the Salt Creek Training Area near White City, Ore., Aug. 1, 2026.
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Benjamen Rubio, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, instructs Giovanni Gonzalez, a Guard for a Day participant from Roseburg, Ore., on how to operate the M240 machine gun during training at the Salt Creek Training Area near White City, Ore., Aug. 1, 2026.
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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From left, Jordan Chandler, Matthew Kaye and Cotton Twonames, wildland firefighters with the Oregon Military Department, hold hand tools used to construct firelines at the Salt Creek Training Area near White City, Ore., Aug. 1, 2026.
(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)