454th Bombardment Wing

• World War II Origins: The 454th Bombardment Wing traces its roots to the 454th Bombardment Group, which was activated during World War II in 1943 and flew B-24 Liberators in combat missions over Europe and the Mediterranean. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 454th earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for a daring mission against the Hermann Goering Steel Works in Linz, Austria, in July 1944, despite heavy enemy resistance. • Strategic Air Command Era: Reactivated in 1952 as the 454th Bombardment Wing, the unit became part of Strategic Air Command (SAC), flying B-47 Stratojets during the Cold War. • Location: The wing was stationed at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, serving as an important SAC installation for bomber operations. • Air Refueling Capability: In addition to bombers, the 454th included the 901st Air Refueling Squadron, which operated KC-97 Stratofreighters to support global air operations. • Cuban Missile Crisis Alert: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the 454th Bombardment Wing was placed on high alert, with aircraft prepared for immediate nuclear strike missions. • Deactivation: The wing was inactivated in 1964 when the Air Force began retiring the B-47 fleet, marking the end of its active service. • Unit Emblem: The wing’s emblem featured a shield with a blue background and a red lightning bolt, symbolizing its speed and striking power. • Notable Commanders: Several prominent Air Force officers served with the 454th, many of whom went on to higher leadership roles within SAC and the USAF. • Legacy and Honors: Although inactivated, the 454th Bombardment Wing’s legacy continues through its World War II honors and Cold War contributions, commemorated in Air Force history.