About this Unit
The 5th Air Force, originally activated as the Philippine Department Air Force in 1941, is one of the oldest air forces in the United States Air Force. It played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, notably in the defense of the Philippines, the campaigns in New Guinea, and the liberation of the Philippines. After the war, the 5th Air Force became the primary U.S. air component in Japan and played a major role during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Today, headquartered at Yokota Air Base, Japan, the 5th Air Force continues to support U.S. interests and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 5th Air Force was originally formed as the Philippine Department Air Force in September 1941, just months before the outbreak of war in the Pacific.
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Heroic Defense of the Philippines: Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the unit's early members fought valiantly during the defense of the Philippines against the Japanese invasion in 1941–1942.
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General George Kenney’s Leadership: General George C. Kenney took command in 1942 and transformed the 5th Air Force into a highly effective fighting force, pioneering new tactics in air warfare.
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Innovations in Air Power: The 5th Air Force was instrumental in developing low-level attack tactics, skip bombing, and the use of parafrag bombs against enemy shipping and airfields.
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Key Role in New Guinea Campaign: The unit played a decisive role in the Allied campaign in New Guinea, helping to turn the tide against Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific.
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First U.S. Unit in Japan after WWII: The 5th Air Force was the first U.S. air unit to be stationed in Japan following the Japanese surrender in 1945, helping with occupation duties.
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Critical in the Korean War: During the Korean War (1950-1953), the 5th Air Force provided the bulk of the U.S. Air Force's combat power, earning numerous unit citations for its actions.
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Home to Famous Aces: Several legendary fighter aces, including Major Richard Bong (America’s top ace in WWII), served with the 5th Air Force.
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Headquarters in Japan: Today, the 5th Air Force is headquartered at Yokota Air Base in Japan, serving as the main USAF component in the country and supporting the U.S.-Japan alliance.
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Promoting Regional Security: The 5th Air Force continues to be a key player in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, regularly participating in joint exercises and humanitarian missions.
