86th Fighter Wing

• World War II Origins: The 86th Fighter Wing traces its roots to the 86th Fighter Group, activated in 1942. It flew P-47 Thunderbolts in the Mediterranean Theater, supporting Allied ground forces in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The unit received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions during the Italian campaign, particularly for its attacks on enemy communications and supply lines. • Post-War Occupation Duty: After WWII, the 86th served as part of the occupation forces in Germany, helping stabilize the region during the tumultuous postwar years. • Cold War Role: During the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), the unit played a vital role in providing air defense for US and Allied operations in West Germany. • First Jet Aircraft: The 86th transitioned to jet aircraft in the early 1950s, flying F-84 Thunderjets and later F-86 Sabres, marking a new era in aerial combat capability. • Ramstein Air Base: The 86th Fighter Wing has been stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, since 1973. Ramstein is now a strategic hub for U.S. and NATO operations in Europe. • Change to Airlift Mission: In 1994, the 86th transitioned from a fighter to an airlift wing, now known as the 86th Airlift Wing, operating C-130 Hercules and other transport aircraft. • Humanitarian Operations: The wing has been involved in numerous humanitarian missions, including relief efforts in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and during the 2014 Ebola crisis in West Africa. • Largest US Air Force Wing Overseas: The 86th Airlift Wing is the largest wing in the U.S. Air Force stationed outside the continental United States, supporting tens of thousands of military and civilian personnel. • Heroes and Legends: Several pilots from the 86th became aces during WWII, and the unit boasts a proud heritage of valor, including Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Col. William Leverette, who, while attached to the group, shot down seven enemy aircraft in a single mission.