366 Tfw

• The 366th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was activated during the Cold War era and is best known for its service in the Vietnam War, where it earned the nickname “Gunfighters.” • The “Gunfighters” moniker originated in Vietnam when 366th aircrews fitted their F-4 Phantoms with external gun pods, giving them an edge in close air combat. • The unit traces its lineage to World War II, originally formed as the 366th Fighter Group in 1943, flying P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater. • Stationed at Da Nang Air Base, Vietnam, the 366th TFW became one of the most decorated units, flying thousands of combat missions and earning the Presidential Unit Citation. • The 366th TFW was the first Air Force unit to modify F-4 Phantom II aircraft to carry an M61 Vulcan 20mm cannon, addressing the need for an internal gun during aerial engagements. • After the Vietnam War, the Wing was relocated to Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, where it continues to operate, now known as the 366th Fighter Wing (FW). • During the Gulf War (Desert Storm), the 366th deployed personnel and aircraft, supporting coalition operations with precision strikes and air superiority missions. • The unit has flown a variety of aircraft over its history, including the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-84F Thunderstreak, F-4 Phantom II, F-111 Aardvark, F-15E Strike Eagle, and F-16 Fighting Falcon. • The 366th TFW played a key role in integrating the Wild Weasel mission (suppression of enemy air defenses) into U.S. Air Force operations, using specially equipped F-4G aircraft. • The “Gunfighter” heritage is celebrated annually at Mountain Home AFB, with reunions and air shows honoring the unit’s storied history and its contributions to U.S. airpower.