About this Unit
The 906th Air Refueling Wing was a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, first established in 1963 as the 906th Troop Carrier Group at Clinton County Air Force Base, Ohio. Originally tasked with tactical airlift missions, the wing later transitioned to air refueling operations, operating the KC-135 Stratotanker. Throughout its history, the 906th supported numerous training exercises and real-world operations, providing vital aerial refueling capability to enhance U.S. and allied air operations. The unit was inactivated in the mid-1990s as part of post-Cold War restructuring and realignment within the Air Force Reserve.
Historical Facts
• Formation and Early Years: The 906th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) traces its roots back to the 906th Troop Carrier Group, established in 1963 as part of the Air Force Reserve at Clinton County Air Force Base, Ohio.
• Redesignations: The unit underwent several redesignations, becoming the 906th Tactical Airlift Group and later the 906th Tactical Fighter Group before its role in air refueling.
• Relocation to Wright-Patterson: In 1971, the 906th moved to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where it played a significant role in Reserve operations for nearly three decades.
• Aircraft Operated: Over its history, the 906th operated various aircraft including the C-119 Flying Boxcar, C-130 Hercules, and F-4 Phantom II, before transitioning to the KC-135 Stratotanker for air refueling missions.
• Cold War Contributions: During the Cold War, the 906th supported numerous NATO exercises and provided essential tactical airlift and fighter support in Europe.
• Operation Desert Storm: Elements of the 906th were activated during the Gulf War, providing airlift and logistical support to coalition forces in Southwest Asia.
• Distinguished Unit: The 906th earned several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exceptional performance in both peacetime and contingency operations.
• Community Engagement: The wing maintained strong ties with the local Dayton, Ohio community, participating in airshows, civic events, and support for local charities.
• Inactivation: The 906th ARW was inactivated in 1994 due to post-Cold War restructuring and budget reductions, with its personnel and assets reassigned to other units.
• Legacy: Despite its inactivation, the 906th Air Refueling Wing’s legacy of service, innovation, and dedication to both national defense and local community remains an important part of Air Force Reserve history.
