The 479th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was activated by the United States Air Force in 1952 at George Air Force Base, California. Initially equipped with F-51 Mustangs and later transitioning to F-86 Sabres and F-100 Super Sabres, the wing played a key role in developing tactical fighter operations during the early Cold War. In the 1960s, the 479th TFW became one of the first units to receive the F-104 Starfighter, deploying to Europe and training pilots for NATO allies. The wing was inactivated in 1971 as part of a broader realignment of Air Force units and resources.