Black-and-white photograph of a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling an F-4 Phantom II above the clouds, with other F-4s flying nearby.

Courtesy photo via the 920th Rescue Wing

Operation · May 10–October 23, 1972

Operation Linebacker

Operation Linebacker targeted North Vietnam's supply routes during the 1972 Easter Offensive.

About the Operation / Event

Getting to the target meant facing MiG fighters and surface-to-air missiles. Laser-guided bombs helped crews hit bridges that had survived earlier attacks. The campaign showed how greater accuracy could cut vital transport links.

Joint effort

U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy

Stubborn target

Thanh Hoa Bridge finally severed

Opening-day escort

555th Tactical Fighter Squadron F-4Ds

One airman's return

Roger Locher rescued after 23 days