Robin Hein

The 319th Bomb Wing was originally activated in 1942 as the 319th Bombardment Group, participating in World War II campaigns in North Africa, Italy, and the Mediterranean. Reactivated during the Cold War, the unit was stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, and operated a variety of bomber aircraft, including the B-52 Stratofortress and later the B-1B Lancer. The wing played a critical role in nuclear deterrence and strategic bombing missions throughout its history. In the 1990s, the 319th transitioned to air refueling operations before ultimately being redesignated as the 319th Reconnaissance Wing, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

The 319th Bomb Wing (319 BW) was originally activated in 1942 as the 319th Bombardment Group, serving with distinction in World War II in the Mediterranean Theater, flying B-26 Marauders and later B-25 Mitchells. Reactivated during the Cold War, the unit was redesignated as the 319th Bomb Wing in 1955 and stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, operating B-52 Stratofortress bombers and later KC-135 Stratotankers as part of Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrent force. Over the decades, the 319 BW participated in several major conflicts and operations, including support roles during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. In the early 1990s, the wing transitioned to an air refueling mission before eventually being redesignated as the 319th Air Base Wing, continuing its legacy of excellence in support of the United States Air Force’s global missions.