Welcome to the official website of the 122nd Fighter Wing, home of the Blacksnakes! The mission of the 122nd Fighter Wing is to fly, fight, and win while maintaining agile support of community, state, and nation while readying combat airpower for tomorrow. During peacetime operations, we take pride in assisting local authorities with rescue and relief operations in the event of a natural disaster, disturbance or other emergency while protecting the citizens of Indiana and their property. The vision of the 122nd Fighter Wing is to be warrior Airmen, reliable and motivated to accomplish our mission. We are leaders in changing strategic roles and innovative in achieving operational agility to sustain relevance for the future.
The122nd Fighter Wing has flown only fighter aircraft during its many years of service which include the P-51, F-80, F-84, F-86, F-100, F-4, F-16, A-10, and currently a more advanced block of F-16 fighters. The Wing traces its heritage back to the 358th Fighter Group which was activated in January 1943, flying the P-47D "Thunderbolts." During WWII they flew interdiction and bomber escort missions from England until D-Day. As the allies advanced they took on the role of ground support, to include "tank-busting." Following the surrender of Germany, the group re-deployed to the United States in July 1945, and were officially inactivated the following November. In May 1946, the group was re-designated as the 163rd Fighter Squadron (later to become the 122nd Fighter Wing) and assigned with all honors and colors to the Indiana National Guard. During the war the 358th, known as the "Orange Tails" for their distinctive bright orange aircraft markings, was awarded three Distinguished Unit Citations, and the Croix de Guerre. As a unit, we maintain and fly the F-16 fighter aircraft. The base is also known by its original name, Baer Field, named for 1st Lieutenant Paul Baer, a World War I flying ace and Fort Wayne native.
We are fortunate to have the incredible support of the Fort Wayne Community through the partnership of the Fort Wayne Base Community Council, Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce, local community leaders and individual citizens. The Fort Wayne Base Community Council has shown great support not only to the 122nd Fighter Wing but to all military members and their respective units in the Fort Wayne area. We are blessed to be able to give back by showing our support with community service projects, donation assistance and community outreach programs.
As a country, we will continue to face future challenges, but whatever may come our way, the 122nd Fighter Wing will most assuredly honor our past by displaying the same standard of excellence, safety, pride and patriotism of those that sacrificed before us. I am truly thankful to be a part of this unit, the Fort Wayne community and the Indiana Air National Guard. All those that serve our nation at the 122nd Fighter Wing are extremely thankful for your support and extend to you a warm and friendly Blacksnake Family welcome!