About this Unit
The 102nd Fighter Interceptor Wing (102nd FIW) traces its origins to the post-World War II reorganization of the Air National Guard, being officially established in 1946. Initially equipped with piston-engine fighters, the unit transitioned to jet aircraft during the early Cold War and was tasked with the air defense of the northeastern United States. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the 102nd FIW operated various interceptor aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre and F-102 Delta Dagger, maintaining a constant alert status during periods of heightened tension. The unit continued its air defense mission into the late 20th century, later redesignated and re-missioned as part of broader Air Force restructuring.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: The 102nd Fighter Wing (FIW) traces its roots to the 318th Fighter Group, which was activated during World War II in 1942 and participated in the Pacific Theater.
• Massachusetts Air National Guard: The unit is part of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, headquartered at Otis Air National Guard Base on Cape Cod.
• Redesignation and Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the unit has flown a variety of aircraft, including the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-84 Thunderjet, F-86 Sabre, F-94 Starfire, F-100 Super Sabre, F-106 Delta Dart, and F-15 Eagle.
• Cold War Air Defense: During the Cold War, the 102nd FIW played a vital role in air defense, becoming one of the first Air National Guard units to fly supersonic interceptors.
• September 11, 2001 Response: The 102nd FIW's F-15s were among the first fighters scrambled in response to the attacks on September 11, 2001, launching from Otis ANGB to intercept hijacked airliners.
• Transition to Intelligence: In 2007, the unit transitioned from a flying mission to an intelligence role, becoming the 102nd Intelligence Wing, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
• Paul Revere’s Legacy: The wing’s nickname, "Paul Revere's Own," pays homage to Massachusetts' revolutionary heritage, symbolizing the unit’s readiness and rapid response.
• Community Involvement: The 102nd has played a significant role in local disaster response, including blizzard relief and hurricane recovery efforts throughout New England.
• Distinguished Members: The unit’s alumni include notable figures such as Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., the older brother of President John F. Kennedy, who served as a pilot during World War II.
• Historic Base: Otis Air National Guard Base, the unit’s home, is named after Lt. Frank Otis, a World War I pilot, and has hosted various military units and missions over its long history.
