The 97th Bombardment Wing (BMW) was first activated during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces. Stationed in Italy, the unit played a significant role in the strategic bombing campaign against Axis targets across southern and central Europe. After the war, the 97th was re-designated and later became the 97th Bomb Wing under the newly independent United States Air Force, operating heavy bombers such as the B-29 and B-47 during the early Cold War period. The unit's legacy continues today as the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, focusing on airlift and air refueling training.
