132nd Fighter-Bomber Wing

• Origins in World War II: The 132nd Fighter-Bomber Wing traces its heritage to the 365th Fighter Group, which was activated in 1943 and flew the P-47 Thunderbolt during WWII. • Iowa Air National Guard: The unit is part of the Iowa Air National Guard and is based at Des Moines Air National Guard Base in Iowa. • Federal Recognition: The 132nd was federally recognized on December 1, 1947, originally as the 132nd Fighter Wing. • Korean War Activation: The Wing was mobilized for federal service during the Korean War, providing pilots and support personnel for combat operations. • Aircraft Evolution: Over the decades, the unit has flown various aircraft, including the F-51 Mustang, F-84 Thunderjet, F-100 Super Sabre, A-7D Corsair II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and later transitioned to MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted aircraft. • Fighter-Bomber Role: The unit was designated as the 132nd Fighter-Bomber Wing in the early 1950s, reflecting its dual mission of air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. • Domestic Operations: The 132nd has played an essential role in homeland defense, including support for Operation Noble Eagle after the September 11, 2001 attacks. • International Deployments: Members of the unit have deployed in support of operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations around the world. • Transition to Intelligence: In 2013, the Wing transitioned from flying F-16s to new missions, including operating MQ-9 Reaper drones and supporting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. • Community Involvement: The 132nd has a strong tradition of community engagement in Iowa, participating in disaster relief, youth education, and local outreach programs.