This is the 3-squadron, black-bordered, color version of the “gaggle” patch for the squadrons of the 31st Fighter Wing (31 FW), which is a USAF unit assigned to the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) major command and the Third Air Force. They are stationed at Aviano Air Base, Italy, a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) base run by the Italian Air Force. The 31FW is the only United States fighter wing south of the Alps. This strategic location makes the wing important for operations in NATO’s southern region. The 31FW maintains two F-16 fighter squadrons, the 555FS and the 510FS, allowing the wing to conduct offense and defensive combat air operations. In peacetime, the 31FW prepares for its combat role by maintaining aircraft and personnel in a high state of readiness. This patch does not have velcro attached.
