86th Airlift Wing

86th Airlift Wing
Ten 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules return home after supporting Exercise Bayonet Resolve, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, 5 October 2011.
Active1948–1968; 1969–present
Country United States
Branch United States Air Force
TypeWing
RoleAirlift
Part ofUnited States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa
Garrison/HQRamstein Air Base, Germany
Motto(s)"Virtus Perdurat"
"Enduring Courage"
Engagements
Gulf War
  • Liberation and Defense of Kuwait
Decorations
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device (15 Jan 2004 – 31 Oct 2005)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (13x)
Commanders
Current
commander
Brigadier General Adrienne L. Williams
Command ChiefChief Master Sergeant Louis J. Ludwig
Notable
commanders
Wilbur L. Creech
Robert C. Oaks
George B. Simler
Insignia
86th Airlift Wing emblem

The 86th Airlift Wing (86 AW) is a United States Air Force wing, currently assigned to the Third Air Force, United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. The 86th AW is stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

The wing's primary mission is to conduct airlift, airdrop and aeromedical evacuation operations flying the C-21A, C-37A and C-130J aircraft. The 86th Airlift Wing commander also serves as the Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC) commander, leading the largest American community outside the United States.

Originally the 86th Fighter Wing was established and activated on 1 July 1948 at Neubiberg AB, Germany.