FOR RELEASE: July 4, 2026
CONTACT: Colorado National Guard Public Affairs, 720-250-1053, ng.co.coarng.list.militarysupport@army.mil or Colorado Air National Guard Public Affairs 720-847-9435, 140wg.pa.org@us.af.mil
CENTENNIAL, Colo. — Under executive order more than 80 Colorado National Guard members are supporting the Pueblo County Sheriff’s office managing traffic control points for road closures and evacuated areas near the Aspen Acres Fire.
Governor Jared Polis declared a state of emergency and authorized the Colorado National Guard to mobilize in support of the fire response.
“Our dedicated Soldiers and Airman are prepared to support our state and our neighbors to help save lives, reduce suffering, and mitigate property damage whenever and wherever,” said the 45th Adjutant General of Colorado, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Bob Davis. “On our nation’s 250th birthday, these Minutemen answered the call and continue to exemplify what it means to be Always Ready, Always There.”
Approximately 60 members of Task Force NGRF (National Guard Response Force) and 17 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles response July 3. Additional personnel including a liaison officer, resupply elements, fuelers and maintainers are actively supporting the task force.
CONG forces train annually to support state and federal missions. CONG members last supported wildland fire evacuation efforts in August 2024 for the Alexander Mountain Fire near Loveland, Colorado.
The use of CONG forces in a support role relieves local first responders actively responding to calls in the community.
Joint Task Force-Centennial is a standing task force ready to respond to domestic events as directed by the Governor.