172nd Airlift Wing

• Established in 1963: The 172nd Airlift Wing (172 AW) of the Mississippi Air National Guard was originally established in 1963 as the 172nd Air Transport Group. • Located at Allen C. Thompson Field: The unit is based at Allen C. Thompson Field (Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport) in Jackson, Mississippi. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the 172 AW has operated several aircraft types, including the C-119 Flying Boxcar, C-121 Constellation, C-130 Hercules, and currently the C-17 Globemaster III. • Airlift Mission: The unit’s primary mission is tactical and strategic airlift, transporting troops, cargo, and equipment across the globe in support of U.S. and allied operations. • Humanitarian Operations: The 172nd has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina (2005) and other natural disasters. • Iraq and Afghanistan Deployments: The Wing has been critical in supporting U.S. military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting hundreds of missions transporting personnel and supplies. • Medical Evacuation Excellence: The 172nd is notable for its aeromedical evacuation missions, particularly its role in transporting wounded service members from combat zones to advanced medical care. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The wing has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exemplary performance in both peacetime and combat operations. • First ANG Unit with C-17s: In 2003, the 172nd became the first Air National Guard unit to receive and operate the advanced C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. • Community Engagement: The 172 AW is deeply involved in the Mississippi community, providing support for local events, educational programs, and emergency response initiatives.