23rd Fighter Group transfers to Moody Published Aug. 18, 2006 By Wright Times Staff Report 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 23rd Fighter Group at Pope Air Force Base held a realignment ceremony there today, which transferred them from the 4th Fighter Wing to the 347th Rescue Wing at Moody AFB, Ga. This fighter group, made up of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, is scheduled to begin relocating to Georgia in mid 2007. The realignment is the result of the 2005 base realignment and closure plan and is designed, in part, to mitigate Air Force hardship from the shrinking budget. "These changes will allow us to use our resources more efficiently and effectively, while honoring the long and distinguished heritage of the Flying Tigers," said Gen. Ronald Keys, Air Combat Command commander. The A-10s of the 23rd FG carry the name and heritage of the renowned Flying Tigers, which fought against the Japanese in World War II. The unit earned fame by advancing tactically against Japan's multiple successes early in the war. "We have always been proud to have the Flying Tigers as part of the 4th FW. Their proud heritage and outstanding combat record make them justifiably famous," said Col. Mike Holmes, 4th FW commander. "I'm particularly impressed with their determination to succeed in any circumstances. We wish them well as they begin the BRAC-directed move to Moody and regain the 23rd Wing heraldry. We'll miss them and continue to root for them." To preserve the heritage of the Flying Tigers, the 347th RQW will deactivate and the 23rd Wing will activate in its place Oct. 1. Moody will be the host base of the 23rd Wing, adopting the banner of the Flying Tigers.