Peter Brooks

The **9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing** (9th SRW) was activated on November 25, 1948, at Fairfield-Suisun Air Force Base, California, as part of the United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command. Initially equipped with RB-29 Superfortress aircraft, the wing transitioned to more advanced reconnaissance platforms over time, playing a crucial role in gathering intelligence during the Cold War. In 1966, the 9th SRW became the first operational unit to fly the SR-71 Blackbird, providing unparalleled high-speed, high-altitude reconnaissance capability worldwide. The wing was later redesignated as the 9th Reconnaissance Wing and continues its vital intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions today from Beale Air Force Base, California.