303rd bomb wing

• 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. • "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." • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Vietnam War Support: The 303rd provided air refueling and strategic bombing support, with its units deploying to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. • 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. • Reactivation and Redesignations: Over time, the 303rd has undergone multiple activations, inactivations, and redesignations, reflecting changes in U.S. Air Force strategy and technology. • 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.