36th Wing celebrates 20 years as Indo-Pacific strategic hub Published April 11, 2026 By Airman 1st Class Charline Ebreo 36 Wing PA ANDERSEN AIR FORC BASE, Guam -- This year, the 36th Wing marks 20 years since its public redesignation on April 12, 2006, underscoring two decades of readiness, resilience, and commitment to the mission in the Indo-Pacific. During that time, Team Andersen has transformed this installation into a critical platform for projecting airpower, strengthening alliances, and responding rapidly across one of the world’s most dynamic regions. What began as a strategic vision is now a daily reality carried out by Airmen operating from the forward edge. Distance has always shaped the Indo-Pacific, but at Andersen it has never been a limitation. “We are closer to where it matters,” said Jeffrey Meyer, former 36th Wing historian. “This base was built to ensure forces could arrive faster, respond sooner, and operate effectively across the region.” Over the past two decades, that vision has taken shape through steady evolution. The integration of specialized units, expansion of contingency response capabilities, and growth of joint and multinational exercises have strengthened the wing’s ability to operate in complex environments. Exercises like Cope North brought together forces from the United States, Japan, and Australia, sharpening interoperability and building the partnerships that remain essential to regional security today. Large scale training events and Department level exercises have continued to develop mission ready Airmen capable of executing in contested and dynamic conditions. At the same time, the nature of airpower at Andersen has adapted to meet changing demands. The shift to Bomber Task Force operations introduced greater flexibility and unpredictability, reinforcing the wing’s role in deterrence and demonstrating the ability to deliver combat power when and where it is needed. That readiness has been tested not only in exercises, but in real world crises. From Operation Tomodachi in Japan to disaster response efforts across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, Airmen from the 36th Wing have consistently answered the call. Whether delivering humanitarian aid, restoring critical infrastructure, or enabling rapid assessments from the air, Team Andersen has demonstrated that its mission extends beyond combat capability. It includes support to communities across the region. That commitment was evident in the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar, when Airmen restored airfield operations within 48 hours and supported recovery efforts across the island. In the face of widespread damage and disruption, their response reflected years of preparation and a culture built on resilience. Today, the 36th Wing continues to build on that legacy by developing war-ready Airmen, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing its ability to project power across the Indo-Pacific. "Throughout its history, Andersen Air Force Base has delivered rapid airpower and sustained operations across the Indo-Pacific," said Brig. Gen. Dan Cooley, commander of the 36th Wing. "As the 36th wing celebrates a 20-year anniversary, we remain committed to developing our Airmen and the supporting base infrastructure so we are prepared to respond when it matters most." The 36th Wing remains firmly focused on the future. The challenges of the Indo-Pacific continue to evolve, but the foundation built over the past 20 years ensures Team Andersen is ready to meet them.