939th Air Refueling Wing

• Origins in World War II: The 939th traces its lineage to the 939th Troop Carrier Group, activated in 1963, but its predecessor units supported WWII missions as troop carriers and cargo transporters. • Transition to Air Refueling: Originally formed as a troop carrier and later airlift wing, the 939th officially became an Air Refueling Wing in 1992, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker. • Portland Air Reserve Station: The unit was based at Portland International Airport in Oregon from 1963 until its inactivation in 2008, playing a key role as the only air refueling wing in the Pacific Northwest Reserve. • Support for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom: The 939th provided extensive aerial refueling support for combat and support operations in Afghanistan and Iraq in the early 2000s. • Air Force Reserve Component: All members of the 939th were Air Force Reservists, many of whom balanced civilian careers with military commitments, reflecting the Total Force concept. • KC-135 Stratotanker: The wing operated the KC-135E and later the KC-135R, a critical aircraft for extending the range and endurance of U.S. and allied aircraft. • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, the 939th participated in humanitarian airlift and refueling missions, supporting disaster relief and evacuation efforts around the globe. • BRAC Inactivation: The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process led to the inactivation of the 939th in 2008, ending its 45-year presence in Portland. • Distinguished Unit Awards: Over its history, the 939th earned numerous Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, recognizing its operational excellence and readiness. • Legacy Continues: Although inactivated, the 939th Air Refueling Wing's legacy continues through its former personnel, many of whom serve in other Air Force Reserve units or have transitioned to civilian aviation careers.