Counterdrug Program
![Group of Counterdrug Progam members.](/special-units/counterdrug/images/2024-lead-beightler.png)
MISSION
The Ohio National Guard Counterdrug Program provides highly skilled personnel to support law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations in their efforts to reduce drug dependence and anticipate, deter and defeat the threat of illegal substances, trafficking and violence in Ohio.
VISION
We, the Soldiers and Airmen of the National Guard Counterdrug Program, will become the catalysts for synchronized cooperation between and among Department of Defense and federal, state and local agencies across the full spectrum of counterdrug homeland defense operations. By leveraging our unique military capabilities, national resources and community focus, we will play a central role in shaping our state’s response to illicit drugs and associated transnational security threats.
WHO WE ARE
Since 1989, the National Guard Counterdrug Program has provided drug prevention and interdiction support activities to help deter and reduce drug abuse.
Across the nation there are approximately 2,000 Soldiers and Airmen that support local, state and federal agencies in preventing illicit drugs from being imported, manufactured and distributed.
The Ohio National Guard Counterdrug Program is made up of approximately 60 Soldiers and Airmen that support nearly 50 federal, state and local agencies in their fight to eliminate illicit drug abuse and educate citizens on healthy choices and living a drug-free life. Through partnerships with law enforcement agencies, the Ohio National Guard directly supports criminal investigations connected to the illegal drug nexus.
The Counterdrug Program is executed by governors of 54 states/territories; and supports strategic goals of the Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.
WHAT WE DO
The Ohio National Guard Counterdrug Program supports the fight against drugs primarily through analysis and civil operations.
Analysts are located statewide and partner with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and support criminal investigations. Nearly 50 analysts combine their unique civilian skills with the broad spectrum of capabilities gained through their military service. This allows them to pursue investigations related to all drugs, especially those involving opiate abuse. These personnel conduct general analysis, document exploitation, link analysis and case support to help combat the illegal drug trade on the streets.
Civil operators provide support to community-based organizations and drug free coalitions throughout the state. These personnel help focus communities on strategies to educate youth and their parents about the dangers of all drugs, especially prescription drug misuse and heroin. They embody the respect, discipline and potential of all youth who choose to make good life decisions and serve as positive role models for others.
Ground reconnaissance operators team with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to observe and gather information about suspected illegal drug activity.
STORIES
04.24.2017 Fighting Opioid Abuse Drives Airmans Passion Counterdrug Program - Career (Video)
04.19.2018 ONG Counterdrug Task Force marches with Ohio youth to celebrate drug-free lifestyle
04.24.2018 Ohio National Guard Counterdrug Program Marches with Youth We Majority Rally (video on DVIDS)
06.04.2018 ONG Airman recognized for efforts during 2016 OSU terrorist attack
July/August 2018 Recoding the Fight on Drugs
08.06.2018 Guard aviators help law enforcement weed out illegal marijuana grow operations
04.30.2019 Counterdrug Program supports drug-free Ohio teens during annual We Are The Majority Rally
07.22.2019 Counterdrug analyst finds purpose through tragedy
10.01.2019 National Red Ribbon Month: Airman helps combat opioid epidemic (story)
10.01.2019 Cleveland Drug Enforcement Administration: Air National Guard Highlight (video)