3rd TFW

• 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.