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ABOUT 97th Flying Training Wing
- Origins in World War II: The 97th Flying Training Wing traces its roots to the 97th Bombardment Group, which was activated in 1942 and flew B-17 Flying Fortress bombers during World War II, participating in the first Eighth Air Force heavy bomber mission over occupied Europe.
- First American Bombers Over Europe: The 97th Bombardment Group was the first American heavy bomber group to attack Nazi-occupied Europe, conducting its first mission from the UK on August 17, 1942, targeting the marshalling yards at Rouen-Sotteville, France.
- Distinguished Service in WWII: The unit earned two Distinguished Unit Citations for its actions during bombing missions over Germany and occupied territories, demonstrating extraordinary heroism and effectiveness.
- Transition to Strategic Air Command: After WWII, the 97th was reactivated under Strategic Air Command (SAC), operating B-29 and later B-47 and B-52 bombers during the Cold War, contributing to America’s nuclear deterrence posture.
- Involvement in the Korean War: The 97th Bombardment Wing participated in the Korean War, flying combat missions from their base in the United States to support United Nations forces.
- Longest Bombing Mission: In 1957, the 97th Bomb Wing set a record for the longest non-stop jet bomber flight, flying around the world in a B-52 Stratofortress as part of Operation Power Flite.
- Transition to Air Mobility and Training: The unit’s mission shifted from bombardment to air refueling and eventually to pilot training, reflecting changing needs in the Air Force.
- Relocation to Altus Air Force Base: The 97th moved to Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, in 1992 and was redesignated as the 97th Flying Training Wing, focusing on airlift and tanker aircrew training.
- Training the Mobility Air Force: Today, the 97th FTW is the primary training unit for C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus aircrews, playing a crucial role in global mobility operations.
- “Mobility’s Hometown” Nickname: Altus AFB and the 97th FTW are known as “Mobility’s Hometown,” symbolizing their central role in preparing aircrews who deliver rapid global mobility for the U.S. Air Force.