About this Unit
The 116th Bomb Wing was originally activated as the 116th Fighter Group in 1946, part of the Georgia Air National Guard. During the Korean War, the unit was federalized and served in combat, flying F-84 Thunderjets. In 1950, it was redesignated as the 116th Bomb Wing and later transitioned to flying B-1B Lancer bombers as part of the Air National Guard’s strategic bombing force. Over the decades, the unit has played a critical role in both national defense and state emergencies, adapting to evolving missions and advanced aircraft technologies.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 116th Bomb Wing traces its heritage to the 353d Fighter Group, which flew P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater during World War II, earning distinction for their escort and ground-attack missions.
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Georgia Air National Guard: The wing is part of the Georgia Air National Guard, headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia.
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B-29 Superfortress Era: After WWII, the unit was re-designated and equipped with B-29 bombers, marking its initial role as a bomb wing during the early Cold War.
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Transition to Jet Age: The 116th flew the F-84 Thunderjet in the 1950s, participating in both air defense and tactical bombing roles.
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Federalization during the Korean War: The unit was called to active duty in 1950 for service during the Korean War, deploying to Japan and Korea under the Strategic Air Command.
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First "Blended Wing" in Air Force History: In 2002, the 116th Bomb Wing became the first "blended" (active duty and Air National Guard personnel integrated) wing, operating the E-8C Joint STARS aircraft.
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E-8C Joint STARS Mission: The wing's primary mission shifted to operating the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System, providing airborne battle management, command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
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Global War on Terrorism Contributions: The 116th BW has deployed extensively to support Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and other contingency operations, providing critical battlefield surveillance and command capabilities.
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Return to "Classic" Association: In 2011, the blended wing concept ended, but the 116th continued its partnership with the 461st Air Control Wing, maintaining its mission focus on the E-8C platform.
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Numerous Awards and Honors: The unit has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, recognizing its operational excellence and significant contributions to both state and national defense.
