Intro
Discover the 379th Air Expeditionary Wings vital role in global air operations. Learn about its origins, combat missions, and aircraft fleet. Explore its strategic location, deployment history, and contributions to regional stability. Get the inside scoop on this elite military units impact on modern warfare.
The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing is a United States Air Force unit that has been involved in various military operations around the world. As a crucial part of the Air Force's expeditionary forces, the 379th AEW has played a significant role in maintaining global security and stability. Here are five interesting facts about the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing:
The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing has its roots in World War II, when it was established as the 379th Bombardment Group (Heavy) in 1942. The unit flew B-17 Flying Fortresses and participated in several notable campaigns, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge.
Formation and Early Years
The 379th Bombardment Group was activated on November 3, 1942, at Salt Lake City Army Air Base, Utah. The unit consisted of four squadrons: the 524th, 525th, 526th, and 527th Bombardment Squadrons. The group trained at various bases in the United States before deploying to England in May 1943.
World War II Operations
The 379th Bombardment Group began combat operations on May 19, 1943, with a mission to bomb a German airfield in France. The unit flew over 300 combat missions during the war, targeting German airfields, industrial sites, and transportation hubs. The group also participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, dropping bombs on German positions in support of the Allied invasion.
Korean War and Cold War Era
After the end of World War II, the 379th Bombardment Group was inactivated on July 20, 1946. However, the unit was reactivated on November 1, 1952, as the 379th Bombardment Wing (Medium), with the 524th, 525th, 526th, and 527th Bombardment Squadrons. The wing operated B-47 Stratojets and later B-47Es, participating in various exercises and deployments during the Korean War and Cold War era.
Gulf War and Post-Cold War Era
In 1990, the 379th Bombardment Wing was reactivated as the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, with the 524th, 525th, 526th, and 527th Bombardment Squadrons. The wing participated in Operation Desert Storm, flying B-52 Stratofortresses and B-1 Lancers. After the Gulf War, the wing continued to participate in various exercises and deployments, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Current Operations
Today, the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing is a critical component of the Air Force's expeditionary forces, providing airpower support to military operations around the world. The wing operates a variety of aircraft, including B-52 Stratofortresses, B-1 Lancers, and F-15 Eagles.
Gallery of 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Images
379th Air Expeditionary Wing Image Gallery
What is the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing's primary mission?
+The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing's primary mission is to provide airpower support to military operations around the world.
What aircraft does the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing operate?
+The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing operates a variety of aircraft, including B-52 Stratofortresses, B-1 Lancers, and F-15 Eagles.
What is the history of the 379th Bombardment Group?
+The 379th Bombardment Group was established in 1942 and flew B-17 Flying Fortresses during World War II. The unit participated in several notable campaigns, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing's history and current operations. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to ask!