405th Combat Support Grp

• Origins in World War II: The 405th Combat Support Group traces its heritage back to the 405th Fighter Group, which was activated in 1943 and flew P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater. • Normandy Invasion Support: The original 405th played a significant role in providing air support for the D-Day landings in June 1944, attacking enemy positions and infrastructure. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 405th Fighter Group earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions during August 1944, notably for attacking German forces retreating from the Falaise Pocket. • Cold War Era Reactivation: The 405th Combat Support Group was reactivated during the Cold War, serving as part of the United States Air Force presence in Europe, particularly in support of tactical fighter operations. • Philippines Service: The 405th was stationed at Clark Air Base in the Philippines during the Vietnam War era, providing critical support to combat and reconnaissance operations in Southeast Asia. • Base Recovery Operations: The group was instrumental in recovery operations after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991, which devastated Clark Air Base and led to its evacuation. • Versatile Support Functions: The 405th provided a diverse range of support services, including logistics, base security, civil engineering, and medical services, ensuring operational readiness. • Humanitarian Missions: Throughout its history, the group supported humanitarian relief efforts, notably assisting after natural disasters in the Asia-Pacific region. • Disbandment and Legacy: The group was inactivated as part of the United States’ withdrawal from Clark Air Base in 1991, but its legacy lives on in successor units and through its distinguished service record. • Symbolism: The unit’s emblem and insignia feature elements highlighting its fighter group roots and commitment to support operations, reflecting both its combat and logistical heritage.