13th AF

• Creation and Early Role: The 13th Air Force (13th AF) was activated on 14 December 1942 in New Caledonia, during World War II, to oversee air operations in the South Pacific Area. • Nickname: The 13th AF was often referred to as "The Jungle Air Force" due to its extensive operations in tropical and jungle environments across the Pacific. • Island-Hopping Campaigns: The unit played a critical role in the island-hopping campaigns, supporting assaults on Guadalcanal, Bougainville, and the Solomon Islands. • Legendary Aces: Several famous fighter aces, such as Major Richard I. Bong (the top American ace of WWII) and Major Thomas McGuire, flew missions under 13th AF command. • First in the Philippines: 13th AF aircraft were among the first Allied planes to return to the Philippines, providing air support for the liberation of the islands. • Massive Area of Responsibility: At its peak during World War II, the 13th AF controlled more than 12,000 personnel and operated from over 40 airfields across the Pacific. • Post-War Occupation Duties: After WWII, the 13th AF was stationed in the Philippines and played a role in the occupation of Japan and other postwar stabilization operations in Asia. • Cold War Realignment: During the Cold War, 13th AF moved its headquarters to Clark Air Base in the Philippines and later to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, focusing on Pacific defense and deterrence. • Humanitarian Missions: 13th AF was instrumental in disaster relief, including operations after the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, which led to the evacuation and closure of Clark Air Base. • Inactivation and Legacy: The 13th Air Force was inactivated in 2012, with its functions absorbed by Pacific Air Forces, but its legacy continues in the form of combined operations and regional partnerships.