122nd FW

• Origins in WWII: The 122nd Fighter Wing (FW) traces its heritage to the 358th Fighter Group, which fought in Europe during World War II, flying P-47 Thunderbolts in support of ground forces. • Indiana Air National Guard: The 122nd FW is a unit of the Indiana Air National Guard, based at Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base in Fort Wayne, Indiana. • Nickname – “Blacksnakes”: The unit is known as the “Blacksnakes,” a nickname inspired by Indiana’s native black rat snake and the group’s WWII nose art. • Cold War Alert: During the Cold War, the 122nd stood alert with fighter interceptors, ready to defend the U.S. mainland from potential Soviet bomber attacks. • Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the unit has flown a wide range of aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang, F-80 Shooting Star, F-84 Thunderjet, F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, A-7D Corsair II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and currently the A-10C Thunderbolt II. • Operations Around the World: The 122nd FW has deployed for multiple operations, including Operation Northern Watch, Operation Southern Watch, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. • Disaster Response: In addition to combat missions, the unit has supported domestic disaster responses, such as hurricane relief and flood response efforts in the Midwest. • Community Involvement: The Wing is a significant presence in Indiana, providing jobs and supporting local events, education, and public outreach programs. • Distinguished Unit Awards: Over its history, the 122nd FW has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exceptional service and mission accomplishment. • Notable Firsts: The Blacksnakes were among the first Air National Guard units to convert to the A-10 Thunderbolt II, enhancing their ground-support capabilities and cementing their reputation as premier “close air support” experts.