1st Tactical Fighter Wing

• Oldest Active Fighter Wing: The 1st Tactical Fighter Wing, now known as the 1st Fighter Wing, is the oldest active fighter wing in the United States Air Force, activated on 17 October 1947. • Langley Air Force Base: The unit has been headquartered at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, since 1975, making it a staple of East Coast air defense. • F-15 Eagle Pioneers: The 1st Fighter Wing was the first operational unit to receive the F-15 Eagle in 1976, making them pioneers in operating this legendary air superiority fighter. • F-22 Raptor Transition: In 2005, the wing became the first operational unit to fly the F-22 Raptor, ushering in a new era of stealth and air dominance. • Lineage to WWI: The wing traces its heritage to the 1st Pursuit Group, which fought in World War I and is credited with many of America’s first air combat victories. • Desert Storm Deployment: The 1st Tactical Fighter Wing deployed to the Middle East for Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, flying air superiority missions over Iraq and Kuwait. • “First to the Fight” Motto: The wing’s motto, “First to the Fight,” reflects its history of being at the forefront of new aircraft and combat operations. • Presidential Escort: The wing has frequently provided air defense and escort for Air Force One and other key assets during presidential movements in the United States. • Home of the “Hat in the Ring”: The wing’s insignia features the famous “Hat in the Ring,” honoring the original 94th Aero Squadron from World War I, which included the ace Eddie Rickenbacker. • International Training and Exercises: The unit regularly hosts and participates in international exercises with NATO and allied air forces, maintaining global readiness and partnerships.