The 49th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was originally activated in 1948 as part of the United States Air Force, with a distinguished lineage tracing back to World War II. Stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, the 49th TFW played a significant role during the Cold War, flying aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, and later the F-15 Eagle. The wing was deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, where it conducted combat operations and provided crucial air support. Throughout its history, the 49th TFW earned numerous accolades for its operational excellence before eventually transitioning to the 49th Fighter Wing, reflecting changes in mission and aircraft.