455th Missile Wing

The 455th Missile Wing was originally established as the 455th Bombardment Group during World War II, flying B-24 Liberators in combat missions over Europe from 1943 to 1945. After the war, the unit was inactivated and later reactivated during the Cold War era as the 455th Strategic Missile Wing. Stationed at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, the wing operated intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), including the Minuteman series, as part of the United States’ nuclear deterrent force. The 455th Missile Wing contributed to Strategic Air Command’s mission until its inactivation in the late 1960s, reflecting changes in force structure and missile technology.