Thomas LONG

The 319th Bomb Wing was originally activated in 1942 as the 319th Bombardment Group, participating in World War II campaigns in North Africa, Italy, and the Mediterranean. Reactivated during the Cold War, the unit was stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, and operated a variety of bomber aircraft, including the B-52 Stratofortress and later the B-1B Lancer. The wing played a critical role in nuclear deterrence and strategic bombing missions throughout its history. In the 1990s, the 319th transitioned to air refueling operations before ultimately being redesignated as the 319th Reconnaissance Wing, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.