Intro
Discover the fascinating history of Twelfth Air Force, a US Air Force numbered air force. Learn 10 key facts about its role in World War II, the Cold War, and modern operations. From its formation to notable commanders and deployments, explore the evolution of this crucial military unit in defending national security and global interests.
The Twelfth Air Force, also known as Air Forces Southern, is a Numbered Air Force (NAF) of the United States Air Force Air Combat Command (ACC). It is responsible for Air Force operations in the area of responsibility of U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), which includes Central and South America and the Caribbean.
As the air component of USSOUTHCOM, Twelfth Air Force is one of the most diverse and dynamic NAFs in the Air Force, with a wide range of responsibilities and a rich history. Here are 10 interesting facts about the Twelfth Air Force:
History of the Twelfth Air Force
The Twelfth Air Force was established on August 20, 1942, as the Twelfth Air Force Theater of Operations. It was originally formed to support the Allied invasion of North Africa during World War II. The air force played a significant role in the North African Campaign, providing air support for ground troops and conducting strategic bombing missions against enemy targets.
Area of Responsibility
The Twelfth Air Force is responsible for Air Force operations in the area of responsibility of U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), which includes Central and South America and the Caribbean. This area encompasses 31 countries and more than 1,000 islands, covering over 15 million square miles.
Responsibilities
The Twelfth Air Force has a wide range of responsibilities, including:
- Providing air support for USSOUTHCOM operations
- Conducting joint exercises and training with partner nations
- Supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts
- Providing air defense for the region
- Conducting counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations
Units and Organizations
The Twelfth Air Force is composed of several units and organizations, including:
- 612th Air and Space Operations Center (AOC)
- 612th Air Operations Squadron
- 612th Combat Operations Squadron
- 612th Intelligence Squadron
- 612th Maintenance Squadron
Major Exercises and Operations
The Twelfth Air Force participates in several major exercises and operations throughout the year, including:
- Exercise PANAMAX: A multinational exercise focused on improving air and maritime interoperability in the region.
- Exercise Partnership of the Americas (POTA): A joint exercise with partner nations to improve air and ground interoperability.
- Operation MARTILLO: A counter-narcotics operation conducted in conjunction with USSOUTHCOM and partner nations.
Awards and Decorations
The Twelfth Air Force has received several awards and decorations for its service, including:
- Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
- Air Force Organizational Excellence Award
- USSOUTHCOM Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Leadership
The Twelfth Air Force is led by a major general, who serves as the commander of the air force. The current commander is Major General Barry R. Cornish.
Locations
The Twelfth Air Force is headquartered at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. The air force also has units and personnel stationed at several locations throughout the region, including:
- Howard Air Force Base, Panama
- Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras
- Tolemaida Air Base, Colombia
Gallery of Twelfth Air Force Images
Twelfth Air Force Image Gallery
What is the Twelfth Air Force responsible for?
+The Twelfth Air Force is responsible for Air Force operations in the area of responsibility of U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), which includes Central and South America and the Caribbean.
What are the Twelfth Air Force's main responsibilities?
+The Twelfth Air Force's main responsibilities include providing air support for USSOUTHCOM operations, conducting joint exercises and training with partner nations, supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, providing air defense for the region, and conducting counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations.
Where is the Twelfth Air Force headquartered?
+The Twelfth Air Force is headquartered at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona.
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