188TH WING ANG

• Origins in WWII: The 188th Wing traces its lineage to the 463rd Fighter Squadron, activated during World War II in 1944, flying P-47 Thunderbolts in the Pacific Theater. • Arkansas Pride: The unit is based at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and has been a major part of the Arkansas Air National Guard since 1953. • Multiple Aircraft Eras: Over its history, the 188th has flown F-84 Thunderjets, F-100 Super Sabres, F-4 Phantom IIs, A-7D Corsair IIs, F-16 Fighting Falcons, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, and now operates MQ-9 Reaper drones. • Combat Deployments: The 188th deployed in support of Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve, flying crucial combat and reconnaissance missions. • Transition to Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR): In 2014, the unit transitioned from flying A-10s to its current ISR mission, operating MQ-9 Reapers and supporting Distributed Ground Station-Arkansas. • Hurricane Katrina Response: The 188th provided vital support and personnel for disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, exemplifying the National Guard's dual state and federal mission. • Decorated Service: The unit has received numerous awards, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, for excellence in both combat and peacetime operations. • Local Community Ties: The 188th Wing is a major employer and economic driver in western Arkansas, and its members are active in local civic and charitable events. • International Training Hub: Ebbing Air National Guard Base was selected in 2021 as the location for a new Foreign Military Sales pilot training center, bringing international partners to Arkansas. • “Flying Razorbacks” Nickname: The 188th is nicknamed the “Flying Razorbacks,” reflecting Arkansas’ state mascot and symbolizing the unit’s fierce fighting spirit and deep local roots.