116TH BOMB WING

• 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. • Georgia Air National Guard: The wing is part of the Georgia Air National Guard, headquartered at Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia. • 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. • Transition to Jet Age: The 116th flew the F-84 Thunderjet in the 1950s, participating in both air defense and tactical bombing roles. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.