182nd Airlift Wing

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 182nd Airlift Wing

The 182nd Airlift Wing, based at Peoria Air National Guard Base in Illinois, traces its origins to 1947, when it was established as the 182nd Fighter Squadron. Over the decades, the unit transitioned through various aircraft and missions, including tactical reconnaissance and fighter operations. In 1995, the wing shifted to an airlift mission, becoming equipped with the C-130 Hercules aircraft, and has since supported numerous domestic and overseas operations, including humanitarian relief and combat deployments. The 182nd Airlift Wing is recognized for its excellence in readiness and has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.

Unit Members

Scott Stadler

U.S. Air Force

182nd Airlift WingView Profile

Edwin Anderson

U.S. Air Force

182nd Airlift WingView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 182nd Airlift Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The 182nd Airlift Wing traces its lineage to the 304th Fighter Squadron, which was activated in 1943 and served in the China-Burma-India Theater during World War II. • Illinois Air National Guard: The unit is part of the Illinois Air National Guard and is based at Peoria Air National Guard Base in Peoria, Illinois. • Transition to Airlift: Originally a fighter unit, the 182nd transitioned to an airlift mission in the 1990s, operating the C-130 Hercules aircraft. • Disaster Response Role: The 182nd Airlift Wing has played a critical role in domestic disaster relief, including providing airlift support after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. • Global Deployments: The unit has deployed multiple times to support operations such as Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, transporting troops and supplies in combat zones. • Outstanding Unit Awards: The 182nd has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, recognizing its exceptional service and mission accomplishments. • Innovative Maintenance: The 182nd Maintenance Group is known for high readiness rates and has been recognized for innovative approaches to aircraft maintenance, keeping their C-130s mission-ready. • Community Support: The unit is deeply involved in local Illinois communities, supporting civic events, educational programs, and youth outreach initiatives. • Unique Call Sign: The 182nd's aircraft often use the call sign "Stinger," a homage to their earlier fighter squadron heritage. • International Exercises: The 182nd Airlift Wing regularly participates in multinational exercises, such as Operation Saber Junction, fostering interoperability with allied air forces.