4th Tactical Fighter Group

• Formation and World War II Service: The 4th Tactical Fighter Group originated as the 4th Fighter Group in 1942, formed from the famed "Eagle Squadrons"—American volunteers who flew with the Royal Air Force before the U.S. entered WWII. • Distinguished Combat Record: The 4th Fighter Group became one of the top-scoring U.S. Army Air Forces units in WWII, credited with destroying over 1,000 enemy aircraft. • First U.S. Eighth Air Force Unit: The 4th was the first fighter group in the Eighth Air Force to fly combat missions over Europe, starting in late 1942. • Transition to Jet Aircraft: Post-WWII, the group was among the first to transition to jet fighters, operating the F-86 Sabre during the Cold War. • Redesignation and Tactical Role: The unit was redesignated the 4th Tactical Fighter Group in 1955, reflecting its new mission focus on tactical air operations. • Vietnam War Deployment: Elements of the 4th TFG, flying F-4 Phantom IIs, deployed to Southeast Asia and participated in significant air combat and strike missions during the Vietnam War. • Home Base at Seymour Johnson AFB: The 4th TFG has been based at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina since the 1950s, making it one of the base's most storied units. • Famous Air Aces: Several aces, including Don Blakeslee and James Goodson, served with the group, helping cement its legendary reputation. • Modern Legacy: Today, the unit is known as the 4th Fighter Wing, flying the F-15E Strike Eagle and continuing its legacy of excellence. • Unit Motto: The group's motto, "Fourth But First," reflects its pioneering spirit and history of achievement in American airpower.