31st Fighter Wing
| 31st Fighter Wing | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Active | 1947–present |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Air Force |
| Role | Fighter |
| Part of | United States Air Forces Europe |
| Garrison/HQ | Aviano Air Base |
| Motto(s) | Return With Honor |
| Engagements |
|
| Decorations |
Distinguished Unit Citation Presidential Unit Citation Air Force Outstanding Unit Award w/ V Device Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/ Palm |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander |
Brigadier General Barre R. Seguin |
| Notable commanders |
Charles F. Wald |
The 31st Fighter Wing (31 FW) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the United States Air Forces in Europe major command and the Third Air Force. It is stationed at Aviano Air Base, Italy, a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) base run by the Italian Air Force.
The 31st Fighter Wing is the only United States fighter wing south of the Alps. This strategic location makes the wing important for operations in NATO's southern region. The 31st FW maintains two F-16 fighter squadrons, the 555th Fighter Squadron and the 510th Fighter Squadron, allowing the wing to conduct offense and defensive combat air operations.
In peacetime, the 31st FW prepares for its combat role by maintaining aircraft and personnel in a high state of readiness.
The commander of the 31st Fighter Wing is Brigadier General Barre R. Seguin. The Command Chief Master Sergeant is Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Johnson.
The 31st Fighter Wing first activated in 1947, but it traces its heritage to its World War II predecessor unit, the 31st Pursuit Group. The group’s lineage began with its activation at Selfridge Field Michigan, on 1 Feb 1940. Redesignated as the 31 Fighter Group shortly before entering the war, it amassed an impressive record. Number one in the Mediterranean theater of operations in terms of aerial victories, the group was involved in 15 WWII campaigns and earned two Distinguished Unit Citations. The wing celebrates the heritage of its predecessor by flying its honors on the wing flag. The group is currently assigned to the wing as the 31st Operations Group.
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