183rd Fighter Wing

• Origins in World War II: The 183rd Fighter Wing traces its lineage to the 370th Fighter Group, activated in 1943 and serving in the European Theater during WWII, flying P-47 Thunderbolts and P-38 Lightnings. • Illinois Air National Guard: The wing is part of the Illinois Air National Guard and is based at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois. • Redesignations: Over the years, the unit has been redesignated several times, reflecting changes in mission and aircraft, including as the 170th Fighter Squadron and the 183rd Tactical Fighter Group. • F-16 Fighting Falcon Era: The 183rd flew the F-16 Fighting Falcon for many years, providing both air defense and tactical missions until 2008. • BRAC 2005 Impact: As a result of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), the 183rd lost its flying mission in 2008 but continued to serve in other vital roles. • Current Mission: The wing now performs a variety of missions, including the Centralized Intermediate Repair Facility (CIRF) for F-16 engines, providing maintenance support for units across the nation. • State and Federal Service: Members of the 183rd have been activated for state emergencies (including disaster relief) and federal missions, such as Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. • Decorations and Honors: The wing and its predecessor units have received numerous awards, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, for exemplary performance. • Community Involvement: The 183rd has strong ties to the Springfield community, participating in parades, educational outreach, and supporting local events. • Legacy of Service: With a history spanning more than 70 years, the 183rd Fighter Wing represents a legacy of dedication, evolving from a World War II combat unit to a modern support and maintenance force.