Sherman Phillips

The 513th Airborne Command & Control Wing traces its origins to World War II, where it was first activated as a bombardment group. Over the decades, the unit has undergone multiple redesignations and missions, ultimately being reactivated at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, in 1996. As an associate wing, the 513th operates the E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft, providing critical airborne command, control, and surveillance capabilities. The wing has supported numerous operations, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, enhancing U.S. and allied airpower with advanced battle management and situational awareness.