144th Fighter Wing California Air National Guard Base

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 144th Fighter Wing California Air National Guard Base

The 144th Fighter Wing is a unit of the California Air National Guard, headquartered at the Fresno Air National Guard Base in Fresno, California. Established in 1948, the wing has a distinguished history supporting both state and federal missions, including air defense, homeland security, and overseas deployments. Over the decades, the 144th has operated several aircraft, transitioning from the F-86 Sabre to the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and currently flying the advanced F-15C Eagle. The unit has played a critical role in protecting the airspace of the western United States and responding to emergencies such as natural disasters and national security events.

Unit Members

Jack Arnold

U.S. Air Force (1972 - 1979)

144th Fighter Wing California Air National Guard BaseView Profile

Richard Friend

U.S. Air Force

144th Fighter Wing California Air National Guard BaseView Profile

Photos

USS John Hancock Carrier Quals with F3H-2 Demons (1958-59)

U.S. Navy • 1958

F3H-2 Demon Airshow NAS Miramar

U.S. Navy • 1959

Dad standing by F3H-2 Demon Craig only 18 months of age.

U.S. Navy • 1959

About 144th Fighter Wing California Air National Guard Base

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Founding: The 144th Fighter Wing (144th FW) was originally established in 1948, shortly after World War II, as part of the postwar expansion of the Air National Guard. • Location: The unit is based at Fresno Air National Guard Base in Fresno, California, serving as a critical air defense and homeland security installation for the western United States. • Aircraft History: Over its history, the 144th FW has operated a wide range of aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang, F-86 Sabre, F-102 Delta Dagger, F-106 Delta Dart, F-4 Phantom II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and currently, the F-15C Eagle. • Homeland Defense: The 144th FW plays a key role in the Aerospace Control Alert (ACA) mission, providing rapid-response fighter jets to intercept and identify potential threats in U.S. airspace. • 9/11 Response: In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the unit was activated for Operation Noble Eagle, patrolling and protecting critical infrastructure and airspace over the western United States. • Global Deployments: Members of the 144th Fighter Wing have deployed to multiple conflict zones, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and Operation Inherent Resolve. • Historic Firsts: The 144th FW was among the first Air National Guard units to transition to the Air Force’s premier air superiority fighter, the F-15C Eagle, in 2013. • Wildfire Support: The unit and its personnel have provided critical support during California’s devastating wildfire seasons, assisting with aerial reconnaissance and communications. • Distinguished Honors: The 144th FW has earned numerous awards, including Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and recognition for its safety and operational excellence. • Community Engagement: The Wing is known for its active involvement in local community events, airshows, and educational outreach, helping to inspire future generations of aviators and maintain strong ties with the citizens of California.