33rd Fighter Wing

• The 33rd Fighter Wing was activated on August 22, 1946 at Otis Air Force Base, Massachusetts. • The wing has flown various aircraft throughout its history, including the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-15 Eagle, and F-22 Raptor. • In 1970, the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing deployed to Southeast Asia to support operations during the Vietnam War. • The wing has been stationed at several bases throughout its history, including Eglin Air Force Base in Florida and Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida. • In 1996, the 33rd Fighter Wing became the first wing to operate the F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft. • The wing played a key role in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing air support for ground forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. • The 33rd Fighter Wing has received several awards and decorations for its service, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. • The wing has also participated in numerous training exercises and deployments around the world, including Red Flag exercises in Nevada and Pacific Defender exercises in Guam. • The 33rd Fighter Wing has a long history of excellence in combat air operations, dating back to World War II when it was known as the 33rd Pursuit Group. • Today, the wing continues to train and deploy combat-ready forces to support U.S. national security objectives around the globe.