92nd Air Refueling Wing

• Established in 1947: The 92nd Air Refueling Wing (ARW) traces its origins to the 92nd Bombardment Wing, activated at Spokane Army Air Field (now Fairchild AFB), Washington, in November 1947. • Cold War Alert Role: During the Cold War, the wing maintained a constant nuclear alert status, ready to launch B-52 Stratofortress bombers at a moment’s notice as part of the U.S. nuclear deterrent. • Operation Chrome Dome: The 92nd participated in Operation Chrome Dome, where B-52s flew continuous airborne alert missions armed with nuclear weapons, circling the Arctic regions. • Strategic Air Command: For decades, the 92nd was a key element of Strategic Air Command (SAC), which managed America’s strategic bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles. • Korean War Deployments: Aircrews from the 92nd flew combat missions over Korea, supporting United Nations operations during the early 1950s. • Transition to Air Refueling: In 1994, the unit transitioned from a bomber wing to an air refueling wing, operating the KC-135 Stratotanker and providing vital aerial refueling support. • Operation Allied Force: The 92nd ARW supported NATO operations in Kosovo, providing around-the-clock aerial refueling for U.S. and allied aircraft during 1999. • Global War on Terrorism: Following 9/11, the 92nd has continuously deployed aircraft and personnel in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. • Fairchild Air Force Base: The wing has been headquartered at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, since 1947, making it one of the oldest continuously operating units at the same installation. • Operation Homefront: The 92nd ARW has a proud tradition of community involvement, notably responding to the 2015 Washington wildfires by providing support to firefighters and evacuees.