About this Unit
The 405th Fighter Wing was originally activated as part of the United States Air Force in 1952, succeeding earlier World War II-era units. Stationed at several bases throughout its history, including Laon Air Base in France and later Clark Air Base in the Philippines, the wing played a key role in tactical fighter operations during the Cold War. Equipped primarily with aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre and later the F-4 Phantom II, the 405th supported a variety of missions, including air defense, close air support, and tactical bombardment. The wing was inactivated in 1974, but its legacy continues through its contributions to U.S. air power and Cold War deterrence in the Pacific and European theaters.
Historical Facts
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Formation: The 405th Fighter Wing was originally activated on December 1, 1952, at Godman Air Force Base, Kentucky, as part of the United States Air Force during the early years of the Cold War.
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Philippine Service: The 405th Fighter Wing is most famously associated with its long-term stationing at Clark Air Base in the Philippines from 1959 until 1974, playing a crucial role in U.S. Pacific defense strategy.
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Vietnam War Role: The 405th Fighter Wing supported operations during the Vietnam War, deploying aircraft and crews for combat missions, including tactical air support, interdiction, and close air support.
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Aircraft Operated: Over its history, the 405th operated several notable aircraft types, including the F-86 Sabre, F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, and later the A-10 Thunderbolt II.
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Disaster Relief: The Wing was involved in humanitarian and disaster relief missions in the Pacific, providing rapid response during typhoons and other natural disasters in the region.
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Return to the U.S.: After its inactivation in the Philippines, the 405th was reactivated at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, where it became a major training unit for Air Force pilots.
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Gulf War Involvement: Elements of the 405th Fighter Wing participated in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, deploying A-10s and personnel to support coalition forces in the Gulf War.
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Redesignation: The Wing was redesignated several times, reflecting its changing mission profiles, including as the 405th Tactical Training Wing and the 405th Air Expeditionary Wing.
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Unit Emblem: The 405th’s emblem features a golden eagle clutching a lightning bolt, symbolizing speed and striking power.
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Legacy: The 405th Fighter Wing's legacy continues in various forms, with its lineage and honors carried forward by modern U.S. Air Force units, contributing to pilot training, combat readiness, and air support capabilities.
