About this Unit
The 459th Troop Carrier Wing was established in 1949 as part of the United States Air Force Reserve. Initially based at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, the wing was responsible for training and conducting airlift operations, utilizing aircraft such as the C-46 Commando and later the C-119 Flying Boxcar. The unit played a significant role during the Korean War, providing critical airlift support for personnel and supplies. Over time, the wing underwent several redesignations and mission changes, eventually becoming the 459th Air Refueling Wing, reflecting its transition to aerial refueling operations with the KC-135 Stratotanker.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 459th Troop Carrier Wing traces its lineage to the 459th Bombardment Group (Heavy), activated in 1943, which flew B-24 Liberators during WWII, conducting strategic bombing missions in Europe.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The 459th Bombardment Group received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its bold attacks on heavily defended oil refineries at Ploesti, Romania, in 1944.
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Postwar Reserve Activation: After WWII, the group was inactivated, then reactivated in the Air Force Reserve in 1947, beginning its transition to troop carrier operations.
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Transition to Troop Carrier: The unit was redesignated as the 459th Troop Carrier Group in 1949, flying aircraft like the Curtiss C-46 Commando and later the C-119 Flying Boxcar.
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Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the 459th supported airlift missions, including the Berlin Airlift and other critical logistics support for NATO allies.
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Modern Aircraft: The Wing currently operates the KC-135R Stratotanker, providing aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide.
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Andrews Air Force Base: The 459th Air Refueling Wing is based at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland—a prestigious installation known for its proximity to Washington, D.C., and for supporting Air Force One.
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Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom: The 459th has supported major operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing crucial air refueling and airlift for combat and humanitarian missions.
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Multi-Generational Service: Many families have had multiple generations serve in the 459th, contributing to a strong heritage and sense of camaraderie in the unit.
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Humanitarian Relief Efforts: The 459th has played an important role in disaster relief missions, including hurricane response and delivering supplies after global natural disasters.
