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Air Force Reserve activates space wing

  • Published
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  Air Force Reserve Command is expanding the critical role reservists play in space operations by establishing its first space wing at Schriever AFB, Colo.

The command will officially activate the 310th Space Wing March 7. The new organization is an expansion of the existing 310th Space Group, based at Schriever AFB.

"This will be a landmark day in our Air Force's long and proud history," said Col. Jeff Ansted, 310th Space Group commander. "Our members have worked very hard over the past 15 years to provide unrivaled support in operating and defending our space systems. By increasing our unit's mission and responsibilities, the Air Force is again acknowledging that space is a vital component to fighting and winning our nation's wars."

The new organization is comprised of 16 subordinate units located at Schriever AFB, Peterson AFB and Buckley AFB in Colorado and at Vandenberg AFB, Calif.

The 310th's heritage dates back to World War II when it began as the 310th Bombardment Group on March 15, 1942. The unit flew B-25 "Mitchell" bombers in support of operations in Tunisia, Sicily, Italy, Sardinia, France, Austria and Yugoslavia. The group perfected "skip bombing" techniques against bridge, airborne, rail yard and marshaling yard targets.

After several deactivations, the 310th was activated again Sept. 4, 1997, as the 310th Space Group. The group was created from its original squadron, the 7th Space Operations Squadron. It has grown rapidly to meet the Air Force Reserve's expanding role in space operations.

"We're extremely proud and excited to be a part of the Air Force's expanding mission in space," said Colonel Ansted. "The 310th is combat ready. We provide highly trained Citizen Airmen to perform operations that contribute to a number of Air Force space missions. We never lose sight of that."

An activation ceremony is currently scheduled for April 4 at Peterson AFB. (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)