About this Unit
The 307th Bomb Wing was first activated in 1947 as part of the United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command, with its origins tracing back to the distinguished 307th Bombardment Group of World War II. During the Korean War, the wing flew B-29 Superfortresses, conducting strategic bombing missions that earned it two Distinguished Unit Citations. In the Cold War era, the 307th transitioned to jet-powered B-47 Stratojets, maintaining nuclear deterrence through the 1950s and early 1960s before inactivation in 1965. Reactivated in 2011 at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, the wing now operates B-52H Stratofortresses, continuing its legacy in global strike and deterrence operations.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 307th Bomb Wing traces its lineage to the 307th Bombardment Group, which was activated in April 1942 and served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
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"Long Rangers" Nickname: The 307th Bombardment Group earned the nickname "The Long Rangers" due to their long-range bombing missions over vast Pacific distances, targeting Japanese installations from bases such as Guadalcanal and later the Philippines.
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Korean War Action: Reactivated during the Korean War, the 307th Bomb Wing flew B-29 Superfortress bombers, conducting important strategic bombing campaigns and interdiction missions over North Korea from Okinawa.
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Distinguished Unit Citations: The unit has received multiple Distinguished Unit Citations (now Presidential Unit Citations) for extraordinary heroism, including actions over Rabaul, Truk, and in the Korean War.
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Vietnam War Involvement: The 307th was again activated for the Vietnam War, flying B-52 Stratofortresses from U-Tapao Royal Thai Air Base as part of Operation Arc Light, providing crucial strategic bombing support.
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Modern Era Reactivation: The 307th Bomb Wing was reactivated in 2011 at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, and is currently an Air Force Reserve Command unit operating B-52H Stratofortress bombers.
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Crew Heritage and Traditions: The wing maintains a strong heritage of training and mentoring new B-52 crews, upholding traditions that date back to its WWII and Cold War service.
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Global Strike Capabilities: As part of the Air Force Global Strike Command, the 307th Bomb Wing plays a key role in the United States' nuclear deterrence and global power projection missions.
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Humanitarian Missions: Throughout its history, the 307th has participated in humanitarian operations, such as delivering food and supplies to disaster-stricken areas in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Decorated Legacy: Members of the 307th have been awarded numerous individual and unit honors, including Silver Stars, Distinguished Flying Crosses, and Air Medals, reflecting valor and excellence over decades of service.
