56th Fighter Wing

Flight Journal, Jun 2002 by Kaplan, Ron

In November 2001, as a member of the USAF Art Program, I made an official visit to Luke Air Force Base, 20 miles northwest of Phoenix, Arizona. Since it was established during WW II, Luke has turned out fighter pilots nearly nonstop. The area's generally clear weather and proximity to vast expanses of the Sonora Desert for gunnery practice provide an ideal site for aerial combat training, and I had looked forward to this trip for some time.

With more than 200 F-16s on its ramp, the 56th is the largest fighter wing in the USAF-a very busy place. Every USAF F-16 pilot and crew chief is trained here, as are those from numerous foreign F-16 operators, including at present, one squadron from Singapore and one from Taiwan.

In the mid-1990s military drawdown, the Air Force top brass wisely moved to ensure that its most highly decorated units would remain part of the active-duty USAF. It is particularly gratifying to see that 56th Wing personnel have proudly embraced the illustrious heritage of the famed 56th Fighter Group-"Zemke's Wolfpack"-and are working hard to carry on the legacy.

I found it comforting to spend three days in a place where the roar of jet fighters is heard from before dawn until well after dark. The 308th Fighter Squadron "Emerald Knights" gave me the unforgettable chance to fly a supersonic two-seat F-16D and experience a 9G-plus ride. These men and women earn their keep and deserve our utmost respect.

I thank the 56th Fighter Wing CC, Brig. Gen. Stephen Sergeant, Lt. Col. Sam "Chewy" Johnston and Maj. Tom Littleton of the 308th FS, Gus Vines (Luke AFB historian) and the 56th FW's Public Affairs office. For additional information and photos at www.warbirdaviationart.com. -Ron Kaplan