The Persian Gulf Crisis of 1990-91 was a pivotal episode for the Air National Guard (ANG). Driven by a total force policy & the robust defense budgets of the 1980s, the ANG had developed into a true force in reserve that demonstrated a high degree of professionalism. Contents: introduction (ANG aviators have participated in wars & contingencies since 1916); leaning forwardÓ (the ANG pushed to be Ôin the hunt' during the Persian Gulf Crisis); redefining the ANGÓ (volunteerism is emphasized & tailored forces are packaged); validating the total forceÓ (ANG members performed well during the Persian Gulf Crisis). Photos.