About this Unit
The 303rd Bomb Wing traces its origins to World War II as the 303rd Bombardment Group, renowned for its B-17 Flying Fortress missions over Europe, including the first U.S. bombing raid on Germany. Reactivated during the Cold War as the 303rd Bomb Wing, it became part of Strategic Air Command, operating B-29 and later B-47 bombers as a deterrent force. The wing was stationed at various bases, including Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, and participated in key training and alert missions during the height of nuclear tensions. The unit was inactivated in the early 1960s as part of the Air Force's transition to more advanced strategic bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 303rd Bombardment Group (Heavy), the predecessor of the 303rd Bomb Wing, was activated in February 1942 and became one of the first B-17 Flying Fortress units to fly combat missions from England during WWII.
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"Hell's Angels": The group's nickname was "Hell's Angels" and its lead aircraft, B-17F serial number 41-24577, became the first heavy bomber in the 8th Air Force to complete 25 combat missions in Europe, predating the more famous "Memphis Belle."
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Extensive Combat Missions: During WWII, the 303rd completed over 300 missions, dropping more than 13,000 tons of bombs and claiming destruction of over 1,000 enemy aircraft.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The 303rd earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its mission on 11 January 1944, when it braved heavy enemy fire to bomb aircraft factories in Oschersleben, Germany.
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Cold War Era: The 303rd was reactivated as the 303rd Bombardment Wing (Medium) at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, in 1951, flying B-29 Superfortresses and later B-47 Stratojets as part of Strategic Air Command.
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Transition to Missiles: In 1964, the 303rd became a missile unit, operating Titan II intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) until 1984 when the missile program was phased out.
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Vietnam War Support: The 303rd provided air refueling and strategic bombing support, with its units deploying to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War.
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Aircraft Innovations: The 303rd was among the first units to operate the B-47 Stratojet, a jet-powered strategic bomber pivotal in Cold War deterrence.
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Reactivation and Redesignations: Over time, the 303rd has undergone multiple activations, inactivations, and redesignations, reflecting changes in U.S. Air Force strategy and technology.
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Legacy and Heritage: Although inactive today, the 303rd Bomb Wing's legacy is preserved through museums, veterans' associations, and commemorative events, honoring its significant contributions to U.S. and Allied air power.
