3rd TFW

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 3rd TFW

The 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing (3rd TFW) traces its origins to World War II, where it was first activated as the 3rd Bombardment Group in 1919 and later saw extensive combat in the Pacific Theater. Redesignated the 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing during the Cold War, the unit became a key component of the United States Air Force's presence in Asia, particularly at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. The 3rd TFW flew a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-15 Eagle, participating in operations such as the Vietnam War and providing air defense and strike capabilities in the region. In 1991, the wing relocated to Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, where it continues its mission as the 3rd Wing, maintaining readiness for rapid deployment and air superiority.

Unit Members

James Benson

U.S. Air Force

3rd TFWView Profile

Donald Alexander

U.S. Air Force

3rd TFWView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1986

About 3rd TFW

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in WWII: The 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing (3rd TFW) traces its lineage back to the 3rd Attack Group, established in 1919 and active in the Pacific Theater during World War II. • Korean War Veterans: The 3rd TFW played a major role in the Korean War, flying B-26 Invaders in night intruder and interdiction missions, earning a Distinguished Unit Citation. • First Jet Aircraft: After the Korean War, the unit transitioned to jet aircraft, operating the F-80 Shooting Star and later the F-100 Super Sabre. • Vietnam War Service: The 3rd TFW deployed to Southeast Asia, flying missions over Vietnam and Thailand with the F-100, providing close air support and interdiction. • Clark Air Base Era: From 1974 to 1991, the 3rd TFW was based at Clark Air Base in the Philippines, serving as a key American airpower asset in the Pacific. • Operation Fiery Vigil: In 1991, the 3rd TFW participated in Operation Fiery Vigil, the evacuation of Clark Air Base after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo. • Alaska Reassignment: After leaving the Philippines, the wing was reassigned to Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, where it became the core of Alaskan air defense. • F-15 and F-22 Operations: The 3rd Wing (redesignated from 3rd TFW) currently operates the F-22 Raptor, making it one of the first operational Raptor units in the Air Force. • Decorations and Honors: The unit has earned numerous awards, including multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and campaign streamers from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. • Motto and Symbolism: The wing’s motto, “The First and the Best”, reflects its long history and distinction as one of the oldest continuously active combat units in the U.S. Air Force.