Commentary: A new chapter in the 442nd Fighter Wing history book

  • Published
  • By Col. Hubie Hegtvedt
  • 442nd Fighter Wing Commander
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  In April, I had a memorable experience, meeting a group of 442nd Fighter Wing retirees. I was asked to speak at a Reserve Officer's Association dinner and give a brief about the wing's history. Being new to the 442nd, it was a challenge to dive in to such a huge history in just a few days.

From the wing's response and dedication to the mission since World War II to today, it was impressive to learn how much our wing has contributed to the national defense and security of America. Everything you do is a mark in the wing's history. Those who have served before us have written a history of which we can be proud.

Beginning in World War II, the 442nd was constituted as the 442nd Troop Carrier Group and served at Sedalia Army Airfield, Mo., now known as Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo..

In 1949, the unit was reactivated at Fairfax Field, Kansas City, Kan., re-designated as the 442nd Troop Carrier Wing and assigned to the Air Force Reserve.
Many of our airmen participated in the Korean Conflict and afterward, relocated to Grandview Airport, Kansas City, Mo. in April 1955. The Airport was renamed Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in 1957.

Fourty-one years later, a base realignment and closure inactivated Richards-Gebaur AFB. The wing relocated to its current station at Whiteman AFB in June 1994--a move some of you still remember.

Throughout our wing's great history, our predecessors were directly involved in D-Day, the Berlin Crisis and Operation Southern Watch in the Persian Gulf. The 442nd FW's responsibility shifted in 2000 to Operation Northern Watch where we flew combat search and rescue missions out of Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. After the terror attacks of 9/11, members of the wing deployed to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan in support of Operation
Enduring Freedom.

In April 2003, 60 years after the 442nd was first organized to support World War II, wing members and aircraft were once again deployed, this time in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Wing air expeditionary force packages have deployed five times since 9/11 in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

When we look back at the wing's history, it's amazing to see how each of you have directly contributed to the sterling reputation of the 442nd Fighter Wing. This Memorial Day, as you take some time off work to spend with your families, think about those who have come before you. Remember their sacrifices, and those of their families. Most of you have deployed or will deploy in the near future. Know that your service is another chapter in the history of our nation - and someday others will look back and reflect on your sacrifice and say "thank you" for everything you've done. It's an honor to serve with you.

Have a great Memorial Day.