Maryland National Guard activated ahead of winter storm
BALTIMORE (January 23, 2026) — At the direction of Governor Wes Moore, approximately 160 personnel of the Maryland National Guard have been activated to support civil authorities with specialized vehicles across the state to ensure rapid response capabilities for communities that may require assistance during anticipated inclement weather conditions of the winter storm.
The activated Guard members on state active duty are prepared to provide support to civilian first responders with 10 Light Medium Tactical Vehicles (LMTV) and 32 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, also known as Humvees.
The Maryland National Guard is strategically prepositioning assets in key locations throughout Maryland to provide timely support to local and county authorities as weather conditions develop. This proactive measure will enable the quick deployment of resources to areas experiencing severe weather impacts in Western Maryland, Central Maryland, and on the Eastern Shore.
“The safety and well-being of Maryland residents is our top priority,” said Brig. Gen Craig Hunter, director of the Maryland National Guard Joint Staff. “By preparing our personnel and equipment before the winter storm, we can respond immediately to requests for assistance from local jurisdictions and help ensure our communities remain safe during this weather. The Maryland National Guard will work in close coordination with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, local emergency management officials, and county governments to identify areas of greatest need.”
From four readiness centers in Dundalk, Hagerstown, Sykesville, and Salisbury, Guard members will provide transportation, mobility, and logistical support to civil authorities to preserve public safety, save lives, prevent human suffering, mitigate property damage, and enable recovery efforts.
“I am proud of our citizen-Soldiers and citizen-Airmen who have stepped up to support their fellow Marylanders during this time of need,” said Maj. Gen. Janeen L. Birckhead, adjutant general for Maryland. “We are grateful to work with such great civilian partners throughout the state as we remain always ready, always there for our neighbors. We encourage everyone to be safe throughout the potentially hazardous winter weather system.”