PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, Pa. -- A ceremony marking a significant milestone in the 911th Airlift Wing’s history was held at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, April 6, 2018. The Numbered Air Force reassignment ceremony signified the 911th AW’s transition from the 22nd Air Force to the 4th Air Force and the expansion of its mission set.
The transfer of command authority from the 22nd Air Force to the 4th Air Force within the Air Force Reserve Command is part of the 911th AW’s on-going conversion from the C-130 Hercules airframe to the newer C-17 Globemaster III.
Under its new command, the wing will assume a different role within the United States Air Force as it moves from a tactical airlift mission into a strategic airlift mission with the much larger C-17 Globemaster III.
“After 55 years of flying tactical airlift, the exceptional Airmen and civilians here at the 911th will continue a legacy of integrity, service and excellence as we continue forging ahead into our bright future, our new place within the Air Force Reserve, and new chapter in the history of the 911th Airlift Wing, flying strategic airlift with the C-17 Globemaster,” said Maj. Scott A. Kniola, the narrator for the reassignment ceremony.
Historically, the 911th Airlift Wing has held an airlift mission providing aerial transport of personnel, equipment and supplies around the globe. The C-17 Globemaster III is the newest, most flexible cargo aircraft to enter the airlift force, with capabilities of carrying more cargo and personnel over greater distances than the C-130.
“What a great wing this is,” said Maj. Gen. Randall A. Ogden, the 4th Air Force commander, as he addressed the men and women of the 911th Airlift Wing at the reassignment ceremony. “You guys have great airlift experience. Bringing that kind of tactical aerial experience to another strategic airlift is going to serve us well and we [the 4th Air Force] will learn from you as well. We are absolutely delighted to have you come on board. Welcome to the 4th Air Force!”
The 4th Air Force commands the Reserve’s long-range airlift and air-refueling units located throughout the continental U.S., Hawaii and Guam. With the 911th AW’s reassignment to the 4th Air Force they join the more than 33,500 Airmen across 17 wings and two groups that provide strategic airlift, airdrop, aeromedical, air refueling and associated expeditionary support activities.
“Our reputation is stellar,” said Col. Douglas N. Strawbridge, the 911th AW commander. “We are going to go into the 4th [Air Force] strong. We already are and we’re going to continue building on that."