317th Airlift Wing

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 317th Airlift Wing

The 317th Airlift Wing, originally established as the 317th Troop Carrier Group in 1942, played a pivotal role during World War II, participating in major airborne operations across Europe, including D-Day and Operation Market Garden. In the postwar years, the unit supported various airlift missions, adapting to new aircraft and evolving operational requirements during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Reactivated and redesignated several times, the 317th has flown the C-130 Hercules since the 1960s, providing crucial tactical airlift capability for the United States Air Force. Today, stationed at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, the 317th Airlift Wing continues to support global mobility and humanitarian operations around the world.

Unit Members

Eric Brown

U.S. Air Force (1976 - 1996)

317th Airlift WingView Profile

Douglas Laferney

U.S. Air Force (1975 - 1995)

317th Airlift WingView Profile

Photos

U.S. Marine Corps • 1988

USS America CVA-66

U.S. Navy • 1962

About 317th Airlift Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Established during World War II: The 317th Airlift Wing traces its lineage back to the 317th Troop Carrier Group, which was activated in 1942 and played a key role in airborne operations in the Pacific Theater. • Redesignated Multiple Times: Over its history, the unit has been known under several designations, including the 317th Troop Carrier Wing, 317th Tactical Airlift Wing, and finally the 317th Airlift Wing. • Role in the Berlin Airlift: Elements of the 317th participated in the Berlin Airlift (1948–1949), delivering vital supplies to the blockaded city of Berlin during the early Cold War. • Vietnam War Legacy: The wing and its predecessors provided critical airlift support during the Vietnam War, moving troops, equipment, and supplies throughout Southeast Asia. • Current Home at Dyess AFB: The 317th Airlift Wing is based at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, where it operates C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. • Humanitarian Missions: The unit is known for providing humanitarian airlift support, such as delivering relief supplies after natural disasters including Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti earthquake in 2010. • Global Reach: The 317th regularly deploys worldwide, including to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, supporting operations like Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve. • Distinguished Unit Citations: The group has received multiple Distinguished Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism, including actions during WWII in New Guinea and the Philippines. • Innovator in Air Mobility: The 317th has contributed to developing modern airlift tactics, including formation flying, rapid deployment, and airdrop techniques. • ‘The Eyes of Freedom’: The 317th’s nickname, “The Eyes of Freedom,” recognizes its crucial role in providing rapid global mobility and support for U.S. and allied forces.