A history of the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing

A recent photo of the 455th Air Expeditionary WingRecently, Afghanistan - On an USAF base in a Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, there’s an elite unit of soldiers proudly named the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing (455 AEW). Support Our Troops recently had the privilege to provide these patriots with care packages and letters, and remind them how grateful Americans are for the job they do. The 455th has a storied history, dating back to World War 2. The current unit was activated in 2001, and its members are deployed throughout the world.

The unit primarily provides air support for U.S. and coalition forces on the ground. On June 1, 1943 the 455th Bombardment Group (heavy) was activated. The unit flew its first mission in Italy in 1944. They fought strategic bombing missions to targets all over Europe.  They also suffered some heavy losses in the process, but they were credited with 27 enemy aircraft destroyed and 17 probables.

Even though the met severe opposition and lost several bombers, on June 26, 1944 they attacked an oil refinery at Moosbierbaum. Twenty six of 32 planes returned. Throughout the war, they lost 118 aircraft. The unit received numerous honors and medals for its bravery and hard work. They were inactivated in Italy on September 9 1945. The 455th was also involved in the Cold war, and they proudly serve today. Logo for the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing.

Master Sergeant Donald ---- expressed his sincere thanks for donations. He writes: Sir/Ma'am, Thank you very much for the care packages and letters! I have nearly a hundred personnel working for me here at Bagram AB, Afghanistan and every package and letter we receive brings a little bit of home to a pretty dreary place. Your letters truly mean a lot. I have attached a picture of our unit as a small way of saying thanks! ~~ DONALD --, MSgt, USAF   Please message us if you can, and donate to help support the men and women of the Armed Forces.