102nd FIW

• 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.