The 147th Attack Wing, based in Houston, Texas, boasts a distinguished history of service to the United States, both domestically and abroad. From its early days as the 111th Aero Squadron in 1917 to its modern role providing critical intelligence and strike capabilities, the Wing has consistently demonstrated excellence. Among its notable alumni is former President George W. Bush. This article delves into the history of the 147th Attack Wing and clarifies what did George W. Bush fly in the Air National Guard during his time with this esteemed unit.
The 147th Attack Wing’s Legacy: From Biplanes to Drones
Originally formed as the 111th Aero Squadron at Kelly Field in August 1917, the unit’s early days were marked by the biplanes of World War I. Reactivated in 1923 as the 111th Observation Squadron, 36th Division of the Texas National Guard, they operated Curtiss JH-6H Jenny’s from Ellington Field. These aircraft, capable of 80-90 mph, were replaced by O-2 Observation aircraft in 1928 and later by Douglas O-38s in 1931, reflecting the evolving technology of military aviation.
Alt: Vintage Curtiss Jenny biplane, the type of early aircraft operated by the 111th Aero Squadron, highlighting the historical roots of the 147th Attack Wing.
The squadron adopted the iconic “Ace-In-The-Hole” emblem in 1933, a symbol of their Texas heritage and enduring identity. As the threat of World War II loomed, the 111th transitioned to Douglas O-43A and O-47 aircraft, preparing for potential conflict. Federalized in September 1940, the unit served domestically before deploying to Algeria in November 1942 as part of Operation Torch.
During World War II, the 111th Observation Squadron played a crucial role in the Mediterranean and European theaters. Initially flying A-20s for submarine patrols, they quickly adapted to P-39s and fighter reconnaissance. Redesignated the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron and equipped with P-51 Mustangs, they became the “eyes” of the 7th Army in Sicily and Southern France. By the end of the war, the squadron had flown thousands of combat missions, earning numerous accolades for their service and contribution to Allied victory.
Alt: P-51D Mustang fighter plane in flight, similar to the aircraft flown by the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron during World War II, showcasing their transition to advanced aircraft.
Post-WWII and the Korean War: The Jet Age Arrives
Following World War II, the unit was redesignated the 111th Fighter Squadron and equipped with P-51D Mustangs. They were called to service again for the Korean War in 1950, becoming the 111th Fighter-Bomber Squadron and transitioning to F-84E Thunderjets. Deployed to Japan and then Korea, they flew close air support and interdiction missions, significantly impacting enemy supply lines and troop movements. Notably, the Texas Wing, including the 111th, was the first Air National Guard wing mobilized for combat since WWII and the first to down a MiG-15 fighter, marking their significant contribution to the Korean conflict.
Alt: Republic F-84 Thunderjet fighter-bomber, representing the jet aircraft the 111th Fighter-Bomber Squadron utilized during the Korean War, highlighting their adaptation to jet technology.
Back in Texas after the Korean War, the 111th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (FIS) transitioned to F-80 Shooting Stars and later F-86D Sabres. In 1957, they established the Air National Guard Jet Instrument School, training over 1000 Air Guard pilots, demonstrating their commitment to developing airmanship within the Air National Guard.
The F-102 Delta Dagger Era and George W. Bush’s Service
In 1958, the 147th Fighter Interceptor Group (FIG) was formed to support the 111th FIS. The unit transitioned to F-86L Sabres and, significantly, in August 1960, became one of the first to operate the F-102A Delta Dagger, an all-weather fighter interceptor. This marked a crucial period in the 147th’s history and directly connects to the answer to what did George W. Bush fly in the Air National Guard.
George W. Bush joined the Texas Air National Guard and was assigned to the 147th Fighter Interceptor Group in 1968. During his service from 1968 to 1973, Bush flew the Convair F-102 Delta Dagger. This supersonic jet interceptor was the primary aircraft he piloted during his time in the Air National Guard.
Alt: Convair F-102 Delta Dagger fighter jet, the specific aircraft George W. Bush flew during his service with the 147th Fighter Interceptor Group in the Texas Air National Guard.
The 147th FIG earned accolades for combat readiness during the 1960s and, while Bush was a member, participated in “Palace Alert” in Southeast Asia. In 1970, the 147th took on the mission of training all F-102 pilots for the Air National Guard, highlighting their expertise with this aircraft. In 1971, they transitioned to F-101F Voodoo interceptors, becoming the training center for all Air Guard Interceptors on this new platform.
From Voodoos to Phantoms and Falcons: Adapting to Changing Missions
The 147th FIG resumed 24-hour alert duties in 1972 while continuing training missions. The F-102s were retired in 1974, replaced by F-101s. The unit continued its training role and alert commitment throughout the 1970s.
In 1982, the 147th transitioned to F-4C Phantom II fighters, and later F-4D variants. They maintained alert duties and supported European Alert missions in the 1980s. The 147th also excelled in William Tell weapons competitions, showcasing their maintenance and weapons loading skills.
Alt: F-4C Phantom II fighter jet, representing a later aircraft type operated by the 147th Fighter Wing after the F-102 era, showing their continuous evolution and adaptation.
The 147th expanded its capabilities in 1989 with C-26 Merlin aircraft for counter-drug and support missions. That same year, they transitioned to F-16A Fighting Falcons, later upgraded to F-16 ADF variants. In 1995, redesignated the 147th Fighter Wing, they converted to F-16C models and shifted to general-purpose air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, reflecting the evolving demands of modern air power.
The Modern Era: From Fighter Wing to Attack Wing
In the post-9/11 era, the 147th Fighter Wing played a crucial role in homeland defense, escorting President Bush on Air Force One after the attacks. They deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operation Southern Watch and later to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom, flying F-16 combat missions with exceptional success rates in challenging conditions.
In 2008, the unit was redesignated the 147th Reconnaissance Wing, and in 2017, transitioned to the MQ-9 Reaper, becoming the 147th Attack Wing. Today, they operate MQ-1B Predator and MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial systems, providing vital intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike capabilities globally.
MQ-9 Reaper
Conclusion: A Legacy of Service and the Answer to the Keyword
The 147th Attack Wing has a long and proud history, adapting and excelling across different eras of military aviation. From its beginnings in World War I to its current role in modern warfare, the Wing has consistently served with distinction.
To directly answer the question, George W. Bush flew the Convair F-102 Delta Dagger during his service with the 147th Fighter Interceptor Group of the Texas Air National Guard from 1968 to 1973. His time with the 147th is part of the rich tapestry of this unit’s history, which continues to this day as the 147th Attack Wing stands ready to serve the nation. The dedication and professionalism of the men and women of the 147th Attack Wing, past and present, ensure its continued importance to the Texas Military Forces, the Air National Guard, and the United States Military.
