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WASHINGTON (Dec. 9, 2024) — Retired Maj. Gen. Francis M. McGinn, the NGAUS president, issued the following statement on the conference report on the fiscal 2025 National Defense Authorization Act:
“The backroom deal that would allow the Air Force to forcibly transfer Air National Guard space units to the Space Force without the required consent of their governors was struck in defiance of a century of legal precedence, the fierce opposition of the nation’s governors and the clear intentions of the incoming administration.
“The provision, originally known as Legislative Proposal 480, would also reduce America’s military space capabilities at a time when China and Russia are increasing their presence in space.
“NGAUS and our partners made this case clear to Congress over the past year. It is also an existential threat to state authority over the National Guard. Many lawmakers agreed, as evidenced by the numerous letters and legislative actions taken to reject the proposal. We are grateful for their support.
“Air National Guard space units provide 30% of the military’s space operations squadrons and 60% of its electromagnetic war capability. Members of these units are among the most skilled and experienced space professionals in the U.S. armed forces, but most have indicated in surveys that they do not want to leave the National Guard.
“In addition, Space Force officials have said it may be several years before they will be able to accept part-time personnel. In the interim, these critical units would have to be rebuilt, leaving the nation with a capability gap in a critical domain for several years.
“NGAUS and our partners will continue to oppose LP 480 in other settings. This fight is far from over.”
Reporters, Editors & Producers: Retired Maj. Gen. Francis M. McGinn is available for interviews or to appear as a subject matter expert on issues related to the National Guard. Contact John Goheen at 202-408-5882 to schedule an interview or appearance.
NGAUS: The association was created in 1878 to provide united Guard representation in Washington. In their first productive meeting after Reconstruction, militia officers from the North and South formed the association with the goal of obtaining better equipment and training by petitioning Congress for more resources. Today, 146 years later with more than 45,000 members nationwide, NGAUS has the same mission.
