About this Unit
The 97th Air Mobility Wing (97th AMW), based at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, traces its origins to its activation as the 97th Bombardment Wing in 1947. Throughout the Cold War, the unit operated strategic bombers, including the B-29 and later the B-52, playing a key role in deterrence missions under Strategic Air Command. In 1992, the wing transitioned to Air Mobility Command, shifting focus to airlift and refueling missions with aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III and KC-135 Stratotanker. Today, the 97th AMW serves as the premier training center for Air Force aircrews, specializing in mobility and aerial refueling operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 97th Air Mobility Wing traces its heritage to the 97th Bombardment Group, activated in 1942, which flew B-17 Flying Fortresses in Europe during World War II.
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First USAAF Group to Bomb Germany: The 97th Bombardment Group was the first US Army Air Forces unit to bomb German-occupied territory in Europe, conducting a raid against Rouen, France on 17 August 1942.
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Jimmy Stewart Connection: Famed actor and Air Force Brigadier General Jimmy Stewart served as operations officer of the 703rd Squadron, part of the 97th Bombardment Group during WWII.
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Cold War Role: Re-designated as the 97th Bombardment Wing, it became one of the first units equipped with the B-47 Stratojet and later the B-52 Stratofortress, playing a crucial role in Strategic Air Command (SAC).
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Historic Bombing Record: The 97th set a record by accomplishing 5,000 accident-free B-52 sorties, a significant achievement in strategic bomber safety and reliability.
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“Operation Chrome Dome”: The 97th participated in the Cold War airborne nuclear alert mission, keeping bombers in the air 24/7, ready to strike if needed.
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Base Moves: The 97th has been based at several locations, including Smoky Hill AFB (Kansas), Biggs AFB (Texas), Blytheville AFB/Eaker AFB (Arkansas), and since 1992, Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma.
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Transition to Air Mobility: In 1992, the unit was redesignated the 97th Air Mobility Wing and shifted from bombers to an airlift and air refueling mission, operating the C-17, KC-135, and KC-46 aircraft.
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Premier Training Mission: The 97th AMW is the primary training wing for USAF aircrew in the C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus, training nearly all pilots and boom operators for these aircraft.
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Distinguished Unit Awards: The wing and its predecessor units have earned numerous honors, including Distinguished Unit Citations and Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for excellence in combat and training missions.
