442d Fighter Wing

08/21/2026

We recognize a few of those faces ⚡️🐗❤️💛

08/15/2026

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08/03/2026

On this episode of the HawgCast, Col. Rick Mitchell and Command Chief Master Sgt. Nathan Parks sit down for a candid chat.

Get to know the team behind the titles as they share stories from Col. Mitchell's Air Force journey, personal leadership philosophies, and what keeps the 442d Fighter Wing ready for the mission.

Welcome back to the HawgCast! In this episode, Col. Rick Mitchell, Commander of the 442d Fighter Wing, and Command Chief Master Sgt. Nathan Parks discuss the wing's strategic priorities, leadership philosophy, and overall readiness in today's dynamic operational environment. Additionally, Col. Mitch...

08/02/2026

Ready for a lightning round? ⚡️😅

Tune in as 442d Fighter Wing Commander Col. Rick Mitchell and Command Chief Master Sgt. Nathan Parks talk about the wing, leadership, readiness and share a few laughs along the way.

Catch the full episode tomorrow!

07/28/2026

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Staff Sergeant Tabitha Awoniyi, a Commander Support Staff (CSS) specialist with our 442d Force Support Squadron, who won a regional Emmy Award on Saturday, July 25!

When she isn't in uniform supporting our mission, SSgt Awoniyi serves her community as the weekday 6:00 a.m. news producer for WLKY-TV, a 24-hour news station in Louisville, Kentucky.

Her morning show won the award in the Morning, Daytime, or Weekend Newscast category for their outstanding coverage of the tragic UPS plane crash that occurred on November 4. Balancing a fast-paced, high-stakes civilian newsroom during a local crisis requires the exact kind of leadership, composure, and dedication we see from her here at the 442d.

Reflecting on her achievement and how her Air Force training intersects with her civilian news career, SSgt Awoniyi shared; "One of the biggest lessons I've learned from the Air Force is the importance of accountability and staying calm under pressure. In both military service and a fast-paced newsroom, people rely on you to be prepared, communicate clearly, and execute your responsibilities with precision. As a news producer, the anchors read the scripts I write on live TV, so the accuracy of the info they present begins with me. Knowing that others depend on my work has reinforced the importance of taking ownership, paying attention to detail, and remaining composed even in high-pressure situations.

"Winning an Emmy was an incredible honor and a moment I'll always be grateful for. It was a reminder that perseverance, teamwork, and trusting God's timing truly pays off. Professionally, it affirmed the passion I have for storytelling and the responsibility that comes with telling stories that matter."

Please join us in congratulating SSgt Awoniyi on this prestigious achievement! Her success is a shining example of the dedication, talent, and excellence our Reserve Citizen Airmen bring to both their military service and their communities.

07/11/2026

**HAPPENING NOW!**

The 442 Fighter Wing Chiefs' Group Social is underway at Mission's End on Whiteman AFB!

Stop by for an evening of camaraderie, networking, and relaxation with fellow Airmen and friends.

Free refreshments (drinks provided)
Food available for purchase
Join the corn hole tournament for your chance to win an AAFES gift card!

-Location: Mission's End, Whiteman AFB
-Time: Happening now

Come out, connect with your teammates, enjoy great company, and join the fun. We look forward to seeing you there!

*Sponsored by the 442 Chiefs' Group*

07/05/2026

The unmistakable sound of the A-10 Thunderbolt II has become synonymous with strength, resolve, and to many, freedom.

Thank you to the National WWI Museum and Memorial for inviting us to help celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an Independence Day flyover. It was an honor to commemorate this historic milestone and pay tribute to the generations of Americans whose courage and sacrifice have preserved our nation’s freedom.

For 250 years, freedom has endured because of those willing to defend it.

07/02/2026

This weekend, we celebrate the Fourth of July and mark the historic 250th anniversary of our Nation's founding. Since our founding, America's military has been built on innovation and determination, and the 442d Fighter Wing remains proud to contribute to that legacy. As we look back on our Nation's history, our deepest gratitude goes out to all who serve and to the families whose sacrifices ensure America remains the Arsenal of Freedom. 🇺🇸

As you celebrate in the heat and humidity, please execute a solid safety plan. Stay vigilant in large crowds, keep hydrated, and remember that zero DUIs is the standard. If you're celebrating with fireworks, handle them responsibly.

06/22/2026

The 358th Fighter Squadron welcomed a new commander today during a change of command ceremony, as Maj. Jonathan R. Griffin assumed command from Lt. Col. Justin T. Ledvina.

We are grateful to Lt. Col. Ledvina for his dedicated leadership and commitment to the Airmen of the 358th Fighter Squadron. We welcome Maj. Griffin and look forward to his leadership as the squadron continues generating air power and maintaining readiness in support of our nation's defense.