68th Bomb Wing

• Origins: The 68th Bomb Wing was originally activated as the 68th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing on 10 November 1951, at Lake Charles Air Force Base, Louisiana. • Cold War Role: The wing primarily operated Boeing B-47 Stratojet bombers and was part of the United States’ strategic nuclear deterrent during the early Cold War. • Redesignation: In 1963, the 68th was redesignated as the 68th Bombardment Wing, Heavy, and transitioned to the B-52 Stratofortress, one of the most iconic American bombers. • Vietnam War Support: Although not deployed directly to Vietnam, the 68th Bomb Wing supported operations such as Arc Light by providing aircrews and aircraft for rotations to Southeast Asia. • Refueling Operations: The wing also operated the KC-135 Stratotanker, providing vital aerial refueling support to both bombers and tactical aircraft. • Seymour Johnson Air Force Base: The unit moved to Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, in 1957, which became its principal home for nearly three decades. • Cuban Missile Crisis: During the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, the 68th Bomb Wing maintained heightened alert status, with bombers ready for immediate launch. • Strategic Air Command: The wing was a key component of Strategic Air Command (SAC), responsible for maintaining a continuous nuclear deterrent during the tense years of the Cold War. • Inactivation: The 68th Bomb Wing was inactivated on 30 September 1982, as part of the Air Force’s reorganization and modernization efforts. • Legacy: The 68th’s heritage lives on through its successor units and through the accomplishments of its personnel, who contributed to American airpower and strategic deterrence.