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31st Fighter Wing 31st anniversary
The 31st Fighter Wing commemorated its 31st anniversary with a week-long celebration highlighting its enduring legacy, mission readiness and close ties with Allies and partners at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 19-22, 2025.
As told by Airman 1st Class Zachary Jakel, 31st FW/PA, in the article 31st Anniversary of the 31st Fighter Wing, the 31st FW, originally established in 1947, has a long and distinguished history. Over the years, it has participated in numerous conflicts and operations, serving in WWII, Vietnam, the Balkans and the Middle East. Since relocating to Aviano AB in 1994, the wing has served as a key component of U.S. and NATO airpower in southern Europe.
Its motto, “Return With Honor,” reflects the values and commitment of the Airmen who have served in its command. The wing has earned multiple commendations, including the first US Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for its combat performance and excellence in Operation Fox Peter One, a operation requested by the Strategic Air Command.
The anniversary opened with a leadership panel hosting former 31st FW commanders including retired Lt. Gen. Lance Landrum, retired Maj. Gen. Barre Seguin and retired Brig. Gen. Jason Bailey, as well as the current 31st FW commander, Brig. Gen. Tad Clark. The panel discussed the unit’s history, memorable moments as commanders and how the wing can prepare for the future.
Combat operations and deployments
“Over the past 31 years, we have continuously prepared for combat operations and deployments,” said Landrum. “When we have all of these missions and operations, we can expect a pretty high tempo at Aviano AB that has not changed over the years, and we still continue to operate with excellence even today.”
Pacific Air Forces F-16 Demonstration team and the Italian Frecce Tricolori Demonstration team provided aerial demonstrations, showcasing aircraft capabilities and operator expertise. Additionally, a HH-60W Jolly Green II and US Air Force F-16 from Aviano AB provided a Combat Search and Rescue and Close Air Support demonstration in conjunction with ground crews.
The week’s festivities concluded with an anniversary bash, bringing together military personnel, families and Italian partners. Live music and food were provided while celebrating both the unit’s accomplishments and the strong partnership between the US Air Force and Italy.
While the 31st anniversary served as an opportunity to reflect on the past, it also highlighted the wing’s forward-facing posture. Airmen and leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining strong alliances, investing in innovation and sustaining the professional standards that have defined the unit’s legacy.
Two F-16 fighter squadrons
The 31st FW maintains two F-16 fighter squadrons, the 555th Fighter Squadron and the 510th Fighter Squadron, capable of conducting offensive and defensive air combat operations.
The 31st FW also hosts the 56th Rescue Squadron providing a rapidly-deployable, worldwide combat rescue and reaction force response utilizing HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters. The 56th RQS integrates with the Guardian Angels weapon system and other special forces to support insertion, extraction and recovery of both US and allied combatants.
The 31st FW has the 57th Rescue Squadron that leads, organizes, trains and equips Guardian Angel forces and combat support teams to conduct day and night personnel recovery operations in combat, as well as to provide combatant commanders with options to report, locate, recover and reintegrate isolated personnel. Additionally, the 57th RQS provides personnel recovery, combat search and rescue, civil search and rescue and casualty evacuation subject matter experts.
The 31st FW also includes the 606th Air Control Squadron, capable of providing air surveillance, control and communications.
In peacetime, the 31st FW prepares for its combat role by maintaining aircraft and personnel in a high state of readiness. The 31st FW is the only US fighter wing south of the Alps. This strategic location makes the wing critical to operations in NATO’s southern region.
The 31st FW has one assigned geographically separated unit, the 731st Munitions Squadron at Camp Darby, Italy. The wing also supports numerous other geographically separated units.
Photo credit: Staff Sgt. Brooke Rogers and Staff Sgt. Douglas Lorance / U.S. Air Force
