About this Unit
The 347th Tactical Fighter Wing was an active unit of the United States Air Force, first established during the Cold War era. Activated in 1971 at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, the wing was equipped primarily with F-111 Aardvark aircraft, focusing on tactical fighter and strike missions. In 1972, the wing relocated to Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, where it participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, including Operation Linebacker. Following the end of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia, the 347th returned stateside and was eventually redesignated as the 347th Fighter Wing, shifting to a composite mission before its inactivation and later redesignation for new roles.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 347th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) traces its heritage to the 347th Fighter Group, which was activated in 1942 and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, notably flying P-39 Airacobras and P-38 Lightnings.
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Flying Tigers Legacy: The 347th Fighter Group absorbed the assets of the famous American Volunteer Group, the "Flying Tigers," in China after their disbandment in 1942, thus inheriting their legacy.
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Reactivation during Vietnam Era: The 347th TFW was reactivated in October 1970 at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho, and soon moved to Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, taking on a tactical fighter role.
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Aircraft Transition: Over its history, the 347th TFW operated a range of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, F-105 Thunderchief, and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
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Rapid Deployment Capability: The wing was part of the USAF’s Rapid Deployment Force, designed for quick response to crises, especially in the Middle East and other hotspots during the Cold War.
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Participation in Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the wing deployed to Southwest Asia during the 1990-1991 Gulf War, supporting coalition operations against Iraq.
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Decorations and Awards: The 347th TFW and its antecedents earned numerous awards, including Distinguished Unit Citations and Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for their combat performance and operational excellence.
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Transition to Composite Wing: In 1991, the 347th was redesignated as the 347th Wing and reorganized as a composite wing, operating both fighter and rescue aircraft, including HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopters and HC-130 Hercules.
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Role in Search and Rescue: The wing played a crucial role in combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations, supporting both peacetime and combat missions globally.
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Modern Legacy: In 2006, the 347th Wing was redesignated as the 347th Rescue Group and continues its heritage as part of the 23rd Wing at Moody AFB, carrying on the traditions of both the Flying Tigers and the wing’s tactical fighter legacy.
