137th special ops wing

• Origins in World War II: The 137th Special Operations Wing (137 SOW) traces its lineage to the 404th Fighter Group, which was activated in 1943 and fought in the European Theater during World War II. • Oklahoma Roots: The unit is based at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and is part of the Oklahoma Air National Guard. • Multiple Aircraft: Over its history, the 137th has operated a wide variety of aircraft, including the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-100 Super Sabre, KC-135 Stratotanker, and currently the MC-12W Liberty. • Gulf War Service: The 137th was mobilized for Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing aerial refueling support with its KC-135 aircraft. • Special Operations Transition: In 2015, the unit transitioned from an air refueling mission to special operations, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) with the MC-12W. • First ANG MC-12W Unit: The 137th became the first Air National Guard unit to operate the MC-12W Liberty, an ISR aircraft supporting special operations. • Civil Support: The wing has assisted in numerous state emergencies, including disaster relief after tornadoes and floods in Oklahoma. • Distinguished Personnel: Throughout its history, the unit has had members who went on to achieve prominence, including high-ranking generals and decorated combat veterans. • Global Deployments: Members of the 137th have deployed in support of operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations worldwide. • Emblem Symbolism: The wing’s emblem features a Native American theme, honoring Oklahoma’s heritage and the unit’s commitment to vigilance and readiness.