301st SAC

• Origins in World War II: The 301st began as the 301st Bombardment Group (Heavy), activated in 1942, and played a pivotal role in the European Theater, flying B-17 Flying Fortress bombers. • SAC Redesignation: After several postwar changes, the unit became part of Strategic Air Command (SAC) as the 301st Bombardment Wing, reflecting the shift to Cold War deterrence missions. • KC-135 Stratotanker Era: The 301st operated the KC-135 Stratotanker, providing vital aerial refueling capabilities that extended the global reach of U.S. nuclear bombers during the Cold War. • Berlin Crisis Deployment: During the 1961 Berlin Crisis, the 301st was among the SAC units placed on heightened alert, ready to respond to Soviet aggression in Europe. • Vietnam War Support: Elements of the 301st supported operations in Southeast Asia, refueling bombers and fighters involved in combat missions over Vietnam. • Operation Chrome Dome: The 301st participated in Operation Chrome Dome, a continuous airborne alert mission where B-52 bombers armed with nuclear weapons were kept aloft as a deterrence measure. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 301st Bombardment Group earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its daring daylight raid on Steyr, Austria, in February 1944, enduring heavy enemy opposition. • Strategic Relocations: Over its history, the 301st was stationed at multiple key SAC bases, including Barksdale AFB (Louisiana) and Lockbourne AFB (Ohio). • Deactivation and Legacy: The 301st Bombardment Wing was inactivated in the early 1970s as SAC restructured, but its legacy endures in USAF lineage and honors. • Notable Alumni: Several prominent USAF leaders and pilots began their careers with the 301st, contributing to its reputation for excellence and professionalism.