Kentucky 2026 Regular Session

Kentucky Senate Bill SR121

Introduced
2/26/26  
Refer
2/26/26  
Refer
3/2/26  

Caption

A RESOLUTION recognizing the tremendous bravery and skill of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) of the United States Army, known as the "Night Stalkers."

Summary

SR121 is a Senate resolution honoring the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) of the U.S. Army, known as the “Night Stalkers.” The resolution describes the unit’s history, its Fort Campbell, Kentucky home, its role as the Army’s only special operations aviation force, and its use of modified helicopters and unmanned aerial systems to support special operations missions worldwide. It also praises the regiment’s reputation for night operations, precision, and readiness, and notes its continued deployments since September 11, 2001. The resolution further references a January 3, 2026 operation involving the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, stating that the mission was supported by the Night Stalkers and that Kentucky contributed a replica safe-house compound used in mission preparation. The Senate resolves to recognize the regiment’s bravery and skill and to adjourn in its honor, with a copy of the resolution transmitted to Senator Craig Richardson.

Impact

SR121 does not amend or create statutory law; it is a ceremonial Senate resolution. Its legal effect is limited to formal recognition by the Kentucky Senate and an adjournment in honor of the regiment. The resolution may have symbolic value for Fort Campbell, the 160th SOAR, and Kentucky’s relationship with military personnel and installations, but it does not change rights, duties, or regulatory requirements for any state agency, local government, or private party.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment is strongly supportive and laudatory. The resolution uses highly positive language to commend the regiment’s bravery, skill, and service, and the final action was adoption by voice vote, indicating broad agreement and little visible opposition. The tone suggests pride in the unit’s Kentucky connection and appreciation for its military role.

Contention

No committee debate or recorded vote opposition is provided, and the bill’s final adoption by voice vote suggests minimal formal contention. The only potentially sensitive element is the resolution’s inclusion of a detailed reference to a 2026 operation involving Nicolás Maduro, which is unusual for a commemorative resolution and could draw scrutiny for its political or factual implications. However, the available record does not show any expressed objection to that language or to the resolution’s overall purpose.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KY SR246

A RESOLUTION adjourning the Senate in honor and loving memory of United States Army Specialist Chaz R. McGowan.

KY SR227

A RESOLUTION commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army.

KY SJR66

A JOINT RESOLUTION establishing the Air Mobility and Aviation Economic Development Task Force.

KY SR226

A RESOLUTION recognizing 250 years of Kentucky's contributions in representing the United States Marine Corps in faithful service to the United States of America.

KY HR81

A RESOLUTION urging the United States Congress and the United States Army Corps of Engineers to assist with the prevention and mitigation of flood damage in Kentucky.

KY SR91

A RESOLUTION recognizing and commending Bowman Skunk Works for empowering Kentucky students for a future in the aviation industry.

KY SR225

A RESOLUTION commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Navy.

KY SR45

A RESOLUTION honoring the George Rogers Clark High School Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps for their victory at the 2024 United States Army Cadet Command Junior ROTC Raider Challenge.

KY HR74

A RESOLUTION recognizing September 17, 2025, as United States Constitution Day and June 1, 2025, as Kentucky Constitution Day in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

KY SB87

AN ACT relating to aviation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.