ABOUT 93RD BOMB WING
- Formation and Early Years: The 93rd Bomb Wing traces its origins to the 93rd Bombardment Group, activated in 1942 during World War II, making it one of the oldest bomb wings in the U.S. Air Force.
- World War II Service: As part of the Eighth Air Force, the 93rd Bombardment Group flew B-24 Liberators on strategic bombing missions over Nazi-occupied Europe.
- "Ted's Travelling Circus": The 93rd earned its nickname for operating from multiple bases and participating in record-setting long-range missions, including the famous Ploesti raid in Romania.
- Operation Tidal Wave: The unit played a crucial role in the low-level attack on the Ploesti oil refineries in August 1943, earning two Distinguished Unit Citations for its bravery and effectiveness.
- Strategic Air Command: In 1947, the 93rd was reactivated as the 93rd Bomb Wing, becoming the first wing to be assigned to the newly-formed Strategic Air Command (SAC), helping to shape postwar U.S. nuclear deterrence.
- B-52 Era: The 93rd Bomb Wing became the first unit to operate the B-52 Stratofortress, receiving its first aircraft in 1955 and helping to usher in the jet age for strategic bombers.
- Operation Chrome Dome: During the Cold War, the 93rd participated in Operation Chrome Dome, maintaining airborne nuclear alert missions to deter Soviet aggression.
- Vietnam War Involvement: Elements of the 93rd deployed to Southeast Asia, supporting the Vietnam War through Arc Light bombing missions with B-52s.
- Transition to Airborne Warning and Control: In 1996, the 93rd Bomb Wing was redesignated as the 93rd Air Control Wing, transitioning from bombers to operating the E-8 Joint STARS aircraft for ground surveillance and battle management.
- Legacy: The 93rd’s history is marked by numerous campaign streamers, unit citations, and its continued role in U.S. airpower, symbolizing adaptability and excellence from World War II to the modern era.