72d Air Base Wing

• Heritage Dates to WWII: The 72d Air Base Wing traces its lineage back to the 72d Observation Group, activated in June 1941, which participated in antisubmarine patrols during World War II. • Strategic Air Command Era: The unit was re-designated as the 72d Bombardment Wing, Heavy, in 1952, operating B-36 Peacemaker and later B-52 Stratofortress bombers under Strategic Air Command (SAC). • Deployed to Puerto Rico: The 72d Bombardment Wing was based at Ramey Air Force Base, Puerto Rico, from 1959 until its inactivation in 1971, providing a strategic bomber presence in the Caribbean. • Support Role at Tinker AFB: The 72d Air Base Wing was reactivated in 1994 as the host unit at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, providing installation support for a variety of tenant units. • Enormous Workforce: The wing supports more than 27,000 civilian and military personnel at Tinker AFB, making it one of the largest single-site employers in Oklahoma. • Home of the E-3 AWACS: The 72d supports critical missions of the 552d Air Control Wing, which operates the E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft, a key component of U.S. airborne surveillance and command. • Disaster Relief Operations: The wing has played a vital role in supporting disaster relief operations, including responding to tornadoes that have struck the Oklahoma City area. • Base Services: The 72d ABW maintains extensive base infrastructure, including medical, security, fire protection, and family support services for all Tinker AFB personnel. • Environmental Leadership: The wing has earned recognition for its environmental stewardship, winning awards for innovative pollution prevention and sustainability programs. • Honored Legacy: The 72d Air Base Wing carries forward a proud history, with its emblem and honors reflecting both its combat heritage and current vital support role in the U.S. Air Force.