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Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station (NFARS) has a rich history dating back to 1943, when Bell Aircraft Corporation began constructing facilities to design and produce experimental aircraft. In 1945, the Bell X-1 experimental aircraft was developed and tested at Niagara Falls before being moved west to make aviation history. In 1947, Capt. Chuck Yeager became the first person to break the sound barrier in the X-1 at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Since its establishment, NFARS has hosted more than 20 different military aircraft, including cargo, refueling, and fighter models.

Our Heritage

The 914th Air Refueling Wing's 328th Air Refueling Squadron has its origins on April 15, 1944, when Lt. Col. John Moriarty organized the 3rd Combat Cargo Squadron. During World War II, the squadron flew C-47 Skytrains over "The Hump," a perilous route across the Himalayas, delivering critical supplies to ground forces in the China-Burma-India theater. Over the past seven decades, the 328th has operated a variety of aircraft, including the C-47, C-119 Boxcar, C-130 Hercules, and KC-135 Stratotanker, supporting numerous campaigns and conflicts.

Our Mission

On June 3, 2017, the 914th Airlift Wing transitioned to the 914th Air Refueling Wing, replacing its fleet of C-130 Hercules with eight KC-135 Stratotankers. Today, the 914th continues its tradition of excellence, standing ready to support joint partners and ensure mission success through global reach—anytime, anywhere.