5th Bomb Wing

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 5th Bomb Wing

The 5th Bomb Wing, activated in 1947, is a United States Air Force unit based at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. Originally flying B-29 Superfortresses, the wing participated in numerous strategic bombing missions and played a vital role during the early years of the Cold War. Over the decades, the wing transitioned to operating B-52 Stratofortress bombers, enhancing America’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. Today, the 5th Bomb Wing remains a key component of the nation’s strategic bomber force, maintaining readiness for global strike missions.

Unit Members

carroll Kressel

U.S. Air Force (1963-1967)

5th Bomb WingView Profile

Cheryl Near

U.S. Air Force

5th Bomb WingView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1966

Sheppard Tech School '68 I am the one in the middl

U.S. Air Force • 1968

Winter Reforger 3-8 Cav 1

U.S. Army • 1985

About 5th Bomb Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The 5th Bomb Wing traces its lineage to the 5th Bombardment Group, activated in 1919 and later distinguished for its role in the Pacific theater during World War II. • Historic Aircraft: The unit has operated a wide range of iconic bombers, including the B-17 Flying Fortress, B-24 Liberator, B-29 Superfortress, B-47 Stratojet, and currently the B-52 Stratofortress. • Guadalcanal Campaign: The 5th Bombardment Group played a vital role in the Guadalcanal Campaign, conducting long-range bombing and reconnaissance missions against Japanese forces. • Nickname “The Bomber Barons”: During WWII, the group earned the nickname "The Bomber Barons" due to their effectiveness and daring raids in the South Pacific. • Atomic Era Transition: After WWII, the unit transitioned to Strategic Air Command and flew the B-29 Superfortress, part of the early U.S. nuclear deterrent force. • Cold War Deployments: As part of the Cold War posture, the 5th Bomb Wing maintained a constant alert status and participated in numerous airborne alert missions, including Operation Chrome Dome. • Minot AFB Assignment: The 5th Bomb Wing has been stationed at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota since 1968, making it one of only two B-52 wings in the Air Force. • Operation Desert Storm: Aircrew and aircraft from the 5th Bomb Wing participated in Operation Desert Storm, flying long-range strike missions against targets in Iraq. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The wing and its predecessor groups have earned multiple Distinguished Unit Citations and Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for valor and excellence in combat. • Modern Day Role: Today, the 5th Bomb Wing provides global strike and combat support capabilities, maintaining readiness to deliver conventional or nuclear weapons anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice.