About this Unit
The 49th Tactical Fighter Wing (49th TFW) was originally activated in 1948 as the 49th Fighter Wing and has a distinguished history in the United States Air Force. During the Korean War, the wing flew numerous combat missions, providing crucial air support and earning several unit citations. In the Vietnam War era, the 49th TFW was stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, operating aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre and later the F-4 Phantom II. Over the decades, the wing transitioned to advanced fighter jets, including the F-15 Eagle and F-117 Nighthawk, playing a significant role in both training and combat operations before its redesignation as the 49th Wing.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Years: The 49th Tactical Fighter Wing (49th TFW) was originally activated as the 49th Pursuit Group in January 1941, just before the United States entered World War II.
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World War II Service: The unit served with distinction in the Southwest Pacific during World War II, earning two Distinguished Unit Citations and a Philippine Presidential Unit Citation.
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Korean War Deployments: The 49th Fighter-Bomber Wing (as it was then known) was one of the first jet fighter units deployed to Korea, flying F-80 Shooting Stars and later F-84 Thunderjets.
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Cold War Role in Europe: In the early 1950s, the 49th was stationed in Germany, providing a key part of NATO’s air defense during the tense early years of the Cold War.
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Vietnam War Era: Although not directly deployed to Vietnam, the 49th TFW trained and prepared pilots and crews for combat deployment, supporting the Vietnam War effort from home bases.
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F-4 Phantom II and F-15A Eagle: The wing flew a variety of fighter aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the advanced F-15A Eagle, reflecting the rapid evolution of American airpower.
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First Operational F-117A Stealth Fighters: In 1992, the 49th TFW became the first operational wing to fly the F-117A Nighthawk "stealth fighter" at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico.
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Desert Storm Participation: The wing’s elements took part in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, deploying F-117A aircraft that played a pivotal role in the air campaign against Iraq.
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Humanitarian Missions: The 49th has also participated in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief and evacuation operations, highlighting its versatility beyond combat roles.
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Legacy and Honors: The 49th TFW, now known as the 49th Wing, is one of the most decorated units in the U.S. Air Force, with a rich history spanning over 80 years of service.
