James Goldsmith

The 185th Tactical Fighter Group, originally established as the 185th Fighter Group, traces its roots to the Iowa Air National Guard in Sioux City, Iowa, with federal recognition dating back to 1962. The unit initially flew the F-100 Super Sabre, later transitioning to the A-7D Corsair II during the 1970s, and eventually the F-16 Fighting Falcon in the 1990s. The group has participated in numerous deployments, including support for Operations Desert Storm, Northern Watch, and Enduring Freedom, reflecting its active role in both national defense and overseas contingency operations. In 1992, the unit was redesignated as the 185th Fighter Group and later the 185th Air Refueling Wing, shifting its mission to aerial refueling with the KC-135 Stratotanker.