Charles Wilson

9th Reconnaissance Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 9th Reconnaissance Wing, originally established in 1949, is a United States Air Force unit based at Beale Air Force Base, California. It has a distinguished history in aerial reconnaissance, operating high-altitude aircraft such as the U-2 Dragon Lady and previously the SR-71 Blackbird to gather critical intelligence during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and beyond. The wing has played a pivotal role in global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, supporting U.S. and allied operations worldwide. Continually adapting to new technologies and mission requirements, the 9th Reconnaissance Wing remains a cornerstone of America's strategic reconnaissance capabilities.

505th Command and Control Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 505th Command and Control Wing, headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, was activated in 2004 to enhance the United States Air Force’s command and control capabilities. Its roots trace back to World War II-era units, but its modern incarnation focuses on integrating, testing, and training advanced command and control systems. The Wing plays a pivotal role in operational planning, joint and coalition exercises, and the development of tactics for the Air Operations Center Weapon System. Through its innovation and expertise, the 505th has become a cornerstone in ensuring U.S. and allied forces maintain information superiority across the spectrum of conflict.

The 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing (9th SRW) was activated on November 25, 1965, at Beale Air Force Base, California, as part of the United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command. Tasked with conducting high-altitude reconnaissance, the unit became renowned for operating the SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest and highest-flying operational aircraft in the world. Throughout the Cold War, the 9th SRW provided crucial intelligence gathering and surveillance capabilities, supporting national security and strategic decision-making. In 1991, the wing was redesignated as the 9th Reconnaissance Wing, continuing its legacy of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions with aircraft such as the U-2 Dragon Lady.