122nd Fighter Wing

122nd Fighter Wing Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 122nd Fighter Wing?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 122nd Fighter Wing?

Do you have 122nd Fighter Wing photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 122nd Fighter Wing.

Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 122nd Fighter Wing

The 122nd Fighter Wing (122 FW) is a unit of the Indiana Air National Guard, stationed at Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Established in 1947 as the 122nd Fighter Group, the unit has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F-51 Mustang, F-100 Super Sabre, and currently the A-10C Thunderbolt II. The 122nd has participated in numerous federal and state missions, including deployments for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Over its history, the wing has earned multiple honors for its outstanding service and continues to play a vital role in both national defense and state emergency response.

Unit Members

Denver Higley

U.S. Air Force (1972-2012)

122nd Fighter WingView Profile

Joe Gossett

U.S. Air Force

122nd Fighter WingView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 122nd Fighter Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Formation and Location: The 122nd Fighter Wing (122 FW) is part of the Indiana Air National Guard and is based at Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base, Indiana. It was officially established on 10 November 1947. • Nickname: The unit is widely known as the "Blacksnakes," a name derived from the Eastern Black Kingsnake, which is native to Indiana. • World War II Heritage: The wing traces its heritage to the 358th Fighter Group, which served with distinction in the European Theater during World War II, flying P-47 Thunderbolts. • Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the 122 FW has operated several frontline fighter aircraft, including the F-51 Mustang, F-84 Thunderjet, F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and currently the A-10 Thunderbolt II. • Operation Noble Eagle: After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the 122nd played a key role in Operation Noble Eagle, providing homeland air defense missions. • Combat Deployments: The wing has deployed personnel and aircraft in support of military operations abroad, including Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. • Distinguished Unit: The 122nd has been recognized with multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exceptional service and performance. • Community Involvement: The Blacksnakes have a long tradition of supporting local communities during emergencies, including disaster relief and humanitarian assistance missions. • Historic Flyovers: The 122nd Fighter Wing is known for participating in ceremonial flyovers at major sporting events and commemorations throughout Indiana and the Midwest. • Modern Mission: Today, the 122nd Fighter Wing's primary mission is close air support, utilizing the A-10C Thunderbolt II, renowned for its effectiveness in supporting ground troops.