459th Trp Carr Wg

• Origins in World War II: The 459th Troop Carrier Wing traces its lineage to the 459th Bombardment Group (Heavy), activated in 1943, which flew B-24 Liberators during WWII, conducting strategic bombing missions in Europe. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 459th Bombardment Group received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its bold attacks on heavily defended oil refineries at Ploesti, Romania, in 1944. • Postwar Reserve Activation: After WWII, the group was inactivated, then reactivated in the Air Force Reserve in 1947, beginning its transition to troop carrier operations. • Transition to Troop Carrier: The unit was redesignated as the 459th Troop Carrier Group in 1949, flying aircraft like the Curtiss C-46 Commando and later the C-119 Flying Boxcar. • Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the 459th supported airlift missions, including the Berlin Airlift and other critical logistics support for NATO allies. • Modern Aircraft: The Wing currently operates the KC-135R Stratotanker, providing aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. • Andrews Air Force Base: The 459th Air Refueling Wing is based at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland—a prestigious installation known for its proximity to Washington, D.C., and for supporting Air Force One. • Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom: The 459th has supported major operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing crucial air refueling and airlift for combat and humanitarian missions. • Multi-Generational Service: Many families have had multiple generations serve in the 459th, contributing to a strong heritage and sense of camaraderie in the unit. • Humanitarian Relief Efforts: The 459th has played an important role in disaster relief missions, including hurricane response and delivering supplies after global natural disasters.