81st TFW

• Origins in World War II: The 81st Fighter Wing traces its lineage back to the 81st Fighter Group, activated in 1942 and flying P-39 Airacobras and later P-38 Lightnings in the North African and Mediterranean Theaters during WWII. • Cold War Presence: The 81st Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was activated at RAF Bentwaters, United Kingdom, in 1951, serving as a critical part of NATO’s air defense during the Cold War. • Home of the A-10 Thunderbolt II: The 81st TFW was one of the first units to operate the A-10 "Warthog," specializing in close air support and anti-armor roles, from the late 1970s through the early 1990s. • Dual Base Operations: The 81st TFW operated from both RAF Bentwaters and RAF Woodbridge, known as the "Twin Bases," providing redundancy and enhanced readiness. • Secret Nuclear Mission: During the Cold War, the 81st TFW was secretly tasked with the delivery of tactical nuclear weapons in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact. • RAF Bentwaters UFO Incident: In December 1980, the famous Rendlesham Forest UFO incident occurred near RAF Bentwaters, bringing international attention and numerous conspiracy theories to the base and its personnel. • Transition of Aircraft: Over its history, the 81st TFW operated a variety of aircraft, including F-86 Sabres, F-84 Thunderjets, F-101 Voodoos, F-4 Phantoms, and A-10s. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 81st Fighter Group received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions in the Mediterranean Theater during WWII. • Deactivation and Legacy: The 81st TFW was inactivated in 1993 after the end of the Cold War and the drawdown of US forces in Europe; its legacy continues as part of the 81st Training Wing at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. • Unique Emblem: The wing’s emblem features a black panther, symbolizing stealth, power, and striking ability, and became a recognizable symbol for the unit throughout its history.