the wing was formed as a world war ii command and control organization for newly organized troop carrier groups and glider units being trained for overseas deployment to combat theaters. it deployed to england in 1944 and its units subsequently engaged in combat operations, carrying army parachutists and towing gliders during operation overlord, operation market garden and operation varsity. the 53d was also engaged in aerial resupply and casualty evacuation of wounded personnel as well as theater troop transport operations. it operated until v-e day, then supported occupation units in germany until fall 1945.