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History of 8th Tactical Fighter Wing (PACAF)

The 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, known as the "Wolf Pack," is a distinguished unit of the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) with a storied history dating back to its activation in 1948. During the Vietnam War, the wing became renowned for its combat effectiveness while operating out of Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, flying F-4 Phantom II aircraft on interdiction, air superiority, and close air support missions. Under the legendary leadership of Colonel Robin Olds, the 8th TFW achieved significant aerial victories and played a pivotal role in Operation Bolo, a successful effort to lure and destroy North Vietnamese MiGs. Today, the 8th Fighter Wing is based at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, and continues its legacy of readiness and deterrence with modern F-16 Fighting Falcons.

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ABOUT 8th Tactical Fighter Wing (PACAF)

  • Nickname - "Wolf Pack": The 8th Tactical Fighter Wing (8th TFW) is famously known as the "Wolf Pack," a moniker that originated during the Vietnam War under the leadership of Colonel Robin Olds.
  • Vietnam War Service: The 8th TFW was one of the most active and decorated units during the Vietnam War, flying out of Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base and engaging in combat operations from 1966 to 1974.
  • Colonel Robin Olds' Leadership: The legendary fighter ace Colonel Robin Olds served as the wing commander from September 1966 to December 1967, leading the unit to great success and fostering a strong esprit de corps.
  • Operation Bolo: In January 1967, the 8th TFW executed Operation Bolo, a brilliantly planned fighter sweep that resulted in the destruction of seven North Vietnamese MiG-21s in a single engagement, shifting air superiority in favor of the U.S.
  • MiG Kills: The 8th TFW has the distinction of achieving more MiG kills than any other USAF wing during the Vietnam War, credited with 38 confirmed victories.
  • Aircraft Flown: Over its history, the 8th TFW has operated several iconic aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II during Vietnam, the F-16 Fighting Falcon in the post-Vietnam era, and currently the F-16C/D Block 40.
  • Move to South Korea: In 1974, after the end of American combat operations in Southeast Asia, the 8th TFW relocated to Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, where it remains as a vital part of the U.S. defense commitment on the Korean Peninsula.
  • 24/7 Readiness: The wing is renowned for its constant state of readiness, maintaining the ability to launch combat missions at a moment’s notice as part of United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF).
  • Wolf Pack Heritage: The unit's "Wolf Pack" traditions and symbols are still a major part of its identity, with ceremonies, call signs, and unit patches all reflecting its storied history.
  • Humanitarian and Allied Operations: Beyond combat, the 8th FW has participated in numerous humanitarian missions and joint exercises, strengthening U.S. alliances and providing disaster relief throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

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