Luke Field/Air Force Base and
56th Fighter Wing
Heritage Pamphlet
1940 - 2012
56th Fighter Wing History Office
Prepared by Mr. Rick Griset
As of 14 September 2012
2
Blazon
Tenne on a chevron azure fimbriated or two lightning flashes
chevronwise of the last.
Motto
CAVE TONITRUM (Beware of the Thunderbolt)
Significance
The orange background was the color of the Army Air Corps and
represents the 56th Fighter Group's World War II service. The
chevron, representing support, is blue to signify the wing's flights
in support of the nation's quest for peace. The lightning bolts are
symbolic of speed, aggressiveness, and the capability to strike
immediately in any direction.
"Cave Tonitrum," Beware of the Thunderbolt!
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Table of Contents
56th Fighter Wing Emblem, Blazon, Motto, and Significance 2
Table of Contents 3
History of the 56th Fighter Wing 6
Commander, 56th Fighter Wing 7
56th Fighter Group World War II Chronology 10
56th Fighter Wing Chronology 14
56th Fighter Wing Lineage 47
56th Fighter Wing Honors/Streamers/Decorations 48
56th Fighter Wing Primary Aircraft 56
56th Fighter Wing Commanders 57
56th Fighter Wing Operations 60
56th Comptroller Squadron 61
56th Operations Group 64
- 56th Fighter Group Aces 66
- 56th Fighter Group Operations 72
56th Operations Support Squadron 73
56th Training Squadron 75
21st Fighter Squadron 81
62d Fighter Squadron 86
308th Fighter Squadron 94
309th Fighter Squadron 102
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310th Fighter Squadron 110
425th Fighter Squadron 116
56th Maintenance Group 121
56th Maintenance Operations Squadron 126
56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron 129
56th Component Maintenance Squadron 133
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron 139
756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron 146
56th Mission Support Group 148
56th Civil Engineer Squadron 157
56th Contracting Squadron 163
56th Communications Squadron 166
56th Force Support Squadron 169
56th Logistics Readiness Squadron 175
56th Security Forces Squadron 182
56th Medical Group 188
56th Medical Operations Squadron 193
56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron 195
56th Dental Squadron 198
56th Medical Support Squadron 200
History of Luke AFB 202
Luke Field/AFB Chronology 203
Luke Field/AFB Commanders 226
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Luke Field/AFB Primary Aircraft 231
Luke AFB Student Production 1941 – FY11 232
F-16 Flying Hour Programs FY83 – FY11 233
56th Fighter Wing Organization 235
2d Lt Frank Luke, Jr.
In September 1918, Luke made aviation history in World War I when he wreaked havoc
on the aerial fleets of Germany. During an 18-day period, of which Luke only flew
8 days, he destroyed 18 enemy aircraft. Because he targeted the most dangerous prey,
the heavily defended observation balloons, he became known as the “Arizona Balloon
Buster.” He was the first aviator awarded the Medal of Honor. On June 6, 1941,
Litchfield Park Air Base (AB) was redesignated Luke Field in his honor and memory.
6
56th Fighter Wing History
The 56th Fighter Wing, one of the most highly decorated aviation units in history, traced
its heritage to the 56th Pursuit Group which first activated on 15 January 1941 at
Savannah AB, Georgia. The unit was redesignated a fighter group and equipped with the
P-47 Thunderbolt when it was reassigned to England. The 56th flew its first combat
missions of World War II on 13 April 1943. During its two-year involvement in the air
war in Europe, the group damaged or destroyed 1,598.5 enemy aircraft. What seemed
incredible was that the 56th posted that record while losing only 25 fighters in aerial
combat. The group also produced 40 fighter aces.*
After World War II, the 56th Fighter Group was assigned at Selfridge Field, Michigan.
On 15 August 1947, the 56th Fighter Wing was activated with the 56th Fighter Group as
a subordinate unit. The wing's mission was air defense. The unit wrote another chapter
in aviation history when on 14 July 1948 its F-80 Shooting Stars made the first ever westto-east
crossing of the Atlantic by military jets. The flight was a month after the Soviets
set up their blockade of Berlin, and put the Soviets on notice that this nation had the
capability to deploy a large package of military aircraft across the Atlantic in minimum
time. The wing was inactivated on 1 January 1964.
On 16 March 1967, the 56th activated as 56th Air Commando Wing in Southeast Asia,
and redesignated as 56th Special Operations Wing on 1 August 1968. While there, the
56th supported and conducted combat operations against opposing armed enemy forces.
Renamed the 56th Tactical Fighter Wing, the wing was reassigned to MacDill Air Force
Base (AFB), Florida, on 1 June 1975 and conducted combat aircrew training in the F-4
and later fighter training in the F-16. When the military downsized in the early 1990’s,
one step removed the fighter aircraft from MacDill. However, the renamed 56th Fighter
Wing would remain part of the active fighter force. On 1 April 1994, the 56th Fighter
Wing was reassigned to Luke AFB.
Today, the 56th Fighter Wing, a unit which historically has proven to have some of the
world’s greatest fighter pilots, continues the mission that has been identified with Luke
AFB since 1941: "Training the world’s greatest F-16 fighter pilots and maintainers
while deploying mission ready warfighters."
NOTE: * There is more below about the 56th Fighter Group which today is the
56th Operations Group.
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56th Fighter Wing Commander
BRIGADIER GENERAL MICHAEL D. ROTHSTEIN
Brig. Gen. Michael D. Rothstein is the Commander, 56th Fighter Wing, Luke Air Force
Base, Arizona. The wing's mission is to train the world’s greatest F-16 pilots and
maintainers while deploying mission-ready warfighters. As part of Air Education and
Training Command, and home to 138 F-16 aircraft and 24 squadrons, the 56th is the
largest fighter wing in the U.S. Air Force and graduates more than 300 F-16 pilots and
500 crew chiefs annually. The wing oversees the Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field
and is steward of the Barry M. Goldwater Range, a military training range spanning more
than 1.7 million acres of Sonoran desert.
8
General Rothstein was commissioned in 1988 as a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air
Force Academy. An F-16 pilot with more than 2,500 hours, he has previously
commanded the 57th Operations Support Squadron at Nellis AFB, Nevada, and the
609th Air Operations Group at Shaw AFB, South Carolina. He also served as the
Director of Operations and Plans, U.S. Air Forces Central at Shaw AFB, and Chief,
Activities Synchronization, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command in
Kabul, Afghanistan. Prior to his current assignment, General Rothstein was the
Commander, 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa Air Base, Japan, a combat-ready F-16CJ fighter
wing with nearly 3,100 personnel and forces and facilities worth over $2 billion. He was
responsible for a 13,000-person installation supporting eight associate units representing
three U.S. military services (Air Force, Army, and Navy) and the Japan Air Self Defense
Force.
EDUCATION
1988 Distinguished graduate, bachelor's degree in political science, U.S. Air Force
Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado
1995 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
1995 USAF Weapons Instructor Course, Nellis AFB, Nevada
1999 Master of Military Arts and Sciences degree, Command and General Staff College,
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
2006 Master of Strategic Studies degree, Air War College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
ASSIGNMENTS
1. August 1988 - January 1990, student, Euro-NATO joint jet pilot training, Sheppard
AFB, Texas
2. January 1990 - August 1990, student, F-16 replacement training, 72nd Fighter
Squadron, MacDill AFB, Florida
3. September 1990 - February 1992, F-16 pilot, 80th Fighter Squadron, Kunsan AB,
South Korea
4. March 1992 - June 1995, F-16 instructor pilot, 13th Fighter Squadron, Misawa AB,
Japan
5. July 1995 - December 1995, student, U.S. Air Force Weapons School, Nellis AFB,
Nevada
6. January 1996 - May 1998, Chief, Weapons and Tactics, 69th Fighter Squadron, and
Chief, F-16 Weapons and Tactics, 347th Wing, Moody AFB, Georgia
7. June 1998 - June 1999, student, Command and General Staff College, Fort
Leavenworth, Kansas
8. June 1999 - January 2002, Chief, Advanced Programs Branch, then Assistant Chief,
Operations and Training Division, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Ramstein AB,
Germany
9. April 2002 - April 2004, assistant operations officer, 421st Fighter Squadron, and
operations officer, 34th Fighter Squadron, Hill AFB, Utah
10. April 2004 - November 2005, Commander, 57th Operations Support Squadron, Nellis
AFB, Nevada
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11. December 2005 - May 2007, student, then special assistant to the Commandant, Air
War College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama
12. May 2007 - March 2008, Commander, 609th Air Operations Group, and Director of
Operations, U.S. Central Command Air Forces, Shaw AFB, South Carolina
13. March 2008 - May 2009, Director, Operations and Plans, 9th Air Force and U.S. Air
Forces Central, Shaw AFB, South Carolina
14. June 2009 - June 2010, Chief, Activities Synchronization, International Security
Assistance Force Joint Command, Kabul, Afghanistan
15. August 2010 - September 2012, Commander, 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa AB, Japan
16. September 2012 – present, Commander, 56th Fighter Wing, Luke AFB, Arizona
FLIGHT INFORMATION
Rating: Command pilot
Flight hours: More than 2,500
Aircraft flown: F-16C Block 30/40/50, T-38 and T-37
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Legion of Merit
Bronze Star Medal
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Aerial Achievement Medal
Joint Service Commendation Medal
Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant June 1, 1988
First Lieutenant June 1, 1990
Captain June 1, 1992
Major August 1, 1998
Lieutenant Colonel May 1, 2001
Colonel December 1, 2006
Brigadier General August 2, 2012
(Current as of September 2012)
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56th Fighter Group Chronology
15 January 1941 56th Pursuit Group (Interceptor) activated and assigned at
Savannah AB, Georgia, equipped with Seversky P-35, and Curtis
P-36 Hawk aircraft.
26 May 1941 Group moved to Charlotte Army Air Base, North Carolina, and
switched to Bell P-39 Airacobra and Curtis P-40 Warhawk
aircraft.
15 May 1942 Unit redesignated 56th Fighter Group (FG).
June 1942
56th Fighter Group reequipped with Republic P-47B
Thunderbolt.
13 November 1942 The first 56th pilots break sound barrier when P-47s dove from
35,000 feet and reached speed of 725 miles per hour.
6 January 1943 All the Group personnel boarded the Queen Elizabeth for passage
to England from the New York port of Embarkation.
12 January 1943 56th Fighter Group reassigned to Kings Cliffe, England, and
joined air war in Europe.
5 April 1943 Moved to a permanent location at Horsham St Faith (Norfolk),
England, after extensive combat training elsewhere, as part of the
VIII Fighter Command.
8 April 1943 Unit reached operational status.
13 April 1943 56th Fighter Group aircraft flew first combat missions of World
War II, fighter sweeps over occupied France.
12 June 1943, Capt Walter V. Cook, 62d Fighter Squadron, recorded the 56th Fighter
Group's first aerial victory against a Foch-Wulf 190 near Blankenberghe, Beljium. Cook
flew Little Cookie, his P-47C, Tail No. 41-6343. Pictured with his Crew Chief
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12 August 1943 First time belly tanks used on the wing's P-47s, but lacked the
range to escort bombers deep into Germany.
19 August 1943 Capt Gerald W. Johnson was first 56th Fighter Group ace.
25 November 1943 Group's first fighter-bomber mission, fifty P-47s dropped
500-pound bombs on an airdrome facility in France.
8 May 1944 Captain Robert S. Johnson of the 61st and 62d Fighter Squadrons
surpassed the World War I record of Captain Eddie
Rickenbacker, when he shot down two enemy aircraft in one day
and raised his total to 27.
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6 June 1944 During D-Day Invasion, group flew 142 protective cover and airto-ground
sorties.
5 July 1944 Lt Col Francis S. Gabreski shot down his 28th aircraft to become
the top ace in the European Theater of Operations, but was shot
down and captured two weeks later.
Lt Col Gabreski shakes hands with his Crew Chief, SSgt Ralph Safford,
while his Assistant Crew Chief, Schacki, looks on.
7 July 1944 Capt Fred Christensen, Jr., of the 62d Fighter Squadron, set new
record when he destroyed six enemy aircraft during single
engagement.
1 November 1944 1st Lt Walter R. Groce, of 63d Fighter Squadron was first pilot in
the group to take part in shooting down a jet fighter
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13 April 1945 Group fighters attacked German airdrome and destroyed or damaged 190
of the enemy Aircraft parked there.
21 April 1945 The last group combat mission flown over Munich. During its 2-year
involvement in World War II, 56th Fighter Group destroyed 667 enemy
aircraft in aerial combat, destroyed another 324 on the ground, probable
kills totaled 58, and another 543 were damaged. 56th posted that record
of 1592 aircraft damaged/destroyed while losing only 25 fighters in
aerial combat. Unit produced 40 aces.
11 October 1945 The entire group returned to the United States aboard the Queen Mary.
18 October 1945 56th inactivated at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey.
1 May 1946 56th Fighter Group activated at Selfridge Field, Michigan.
Maj Lucian A. Dade, Jr., 62d Fighter Squadron,
flew this P-47D-25 with a bubble canopy during June 1944.
Shown is Tail Number 42-26417, painted with the D-Day paint scheme.
Dade later commanded the 56th Fighter Group. He also commanded Luke's
3600th Maintenance and Supply Group in the mid-1950s.
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56th Fighter Wing Chronology
15 August 1947 56th Fighter Wing activated at Selfridge Field, and assumed
command jurisdiction over 56th Fighter Group. Other
subordinate groups activated as the 56th Airdrome Group,
56th Maintenance and Supply Group, and the 56th Station
Medical Group.
14 July 1948 Sixteen 56th Fighter Wing Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting
Star jets flew first west-to-east crossing of Atlantic by military
jets in 13 days. The mission named Fox Able One proved to the
Soviets USAF's ability to deploy large fighter contingents long
distances in short time.
A 56th Fighter Wing Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star
being loaded with munitions in 1949.
1 December 1948 The wing was reassigned from Strategic Air Command to
Continental Air Command's Tenth Air Force.
25 April 1950 Wing began conversion from F-80s to North American F-86
Sabrejet.
6 February 1952 56th Fighter Wing and 56th Fighter Group inactivated at
Selfridge AFB.
18 August 1955 56th Fighter Group activated at O'Hare International Airport,
Chicago, Illinois.
1 October 1959 56th Fighter Group reassigned to K. I. Sawyer AFB, Michigan.
1 February 1961 56th Fighter Wing activated at K. I. Sawyer AFB.
1 January 1964 56th Fighter Wing inactivated.
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16 March 1967 56th Fighter Wing activated and redesignated as the 56th Air
Commando Wing.
8 April 1967 56th Air Commando Wing assigned to Nakhon Phanom Royal
Thai AFB, Thailand.
Douglas A-1E Skyraider aircraft of the 1st and 602d Special Operations Squadrons,
56th Special Operations Wing, Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai AFB, Thailand.
1 August 1968 56th Air Commando Wing redesignated 56th Special Operations
Wing.
May 1975
56th Special Operations Wing involved in rescue of crew of
merchant ship, Mayaguez, after it was seized by Cambodian
pirates.
30 June 1975 56th Special Operations Wing redesignated as the 56th Tactical
Fighter Wing, reassigned to MacDill AFB, Florida, and
conducted McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II training.
56th Tactical Training Wing McDonnell Douglas F-4D Phantom II aircraft
Tail Number 65-0674 on the ramp at MacDill AFB, Florida.
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22 October 1979 First Lockheed F-16A/B Fighting Falcon, Tail No. 78-0100,
delivered to wing as it converted from F-4 to F-16.
56th Tactical Training Wing Flagship Tail No. 78-0056
1 October 1981 Unit redesignated a tactical training wing.
27 June 1988 Wing received its first F-16C.
30 July 1991 Congress approved the closure of MacDill AFB.
1 October 1991 56th redesignated a Fighter Wing.
1 June 1992 Wing became a unit of ACC.
25 February 1993 56th Fighter Wing's 63d Fighter Squadron reassigned without
personnel or equipment to 58th Fighter Wing at Luke AFB.
14 May 1993 56th Fighter Wing's 62d Fighter Squadron inactivated.
19 August 1993 56th Fighter Wing's 61st Fighter Squadron inactivated.
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4 January 1994 56th Fighter Wing transferred all assets to 6th Air Base Wing.
All 56th Fighter Wing units except wing inactivated.
56th Fighter Wing remained assigned at MacDill AFB without
personnel/equipment.
28 February 1994 USAF announced 56th Fighter Wing to be reassigned to Luke to
take over host unit responsibilities from the 58th Fighter Wing
effective 1 April 1994.
Col James E. Brechwald, Vice Commander, unfurls the
56th Fighter Wing Flag for the first time at Luke AFB on 1 April 1994
1 April 1994 58th Fighter Wing redesignated a special operations wing and
reassigned to Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. Most 58-numbered
units inactivated as did the 311th Fighter Squadron and
314th Fighter Squadron. 56th Fighter Wing moved from MacDill
to Luke and assumed assets/mission of 58th Fighter Wing.
308th Fighter Squadron moved from Moody AFB, GA, to Luke
and assigned to 56th Fighter Wing. All 56-numbered groups and
squadrons, including four new medical squadrons, activated and
assigned to 56th Fighter Wing as were the 61st Fighter Squadron
and 309th Fighter Squadron. Additionally, the 62d Fighter
Squadron, 63d Fighter Squadron, 310th Fighter Squadron,
425th Fighter Squadron, 461st Fighter Squadron, and
550th Fighter Squadron were reassigned from 58th Fighter Wing
to 56th Fighter Wing.
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10 May 1994 Anti-encroachment meeting at Luke chaired by member of
Governor's Save Luke AFB Committee concluded that
unchecked development could not continue because of area's lack
of water.
1 August 1994 USAF moved to ensure continued availability of water for Luke
by locating environmental law attorney at base to represent Luke
in on-going water rights adjudication process.
5 August 1994 461st Fighter Squadron inactivated as part of plan to reassign the
McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle program to Seymour
Johnson AFB, North Carolina.
24 August 1994 Mission Ready Technician Program to provide mission ready
crew chiefs to F-16 units USAF-wide implemented in wing.
21 September 1994 Capt Sharon Preszler graduated becoming the first female Air
Force F-16 pilot.
1 October 1994 56th Support Squadron inactivated. Maintenance of Goldwater
Range assumed by civilian contractor.
1 January 1995 311th Fighter Squadron activated to conduct foreign training.
Unit had provided foreign training under 58th Fighter Wing and
had inactivated on 1 April 1994.
31 March 1995 550th Fighter Squadron inactivated ending all F-15 training at
Luke. Since program began in 1974, 3,303 students trained in
F-15A/B/C/D, and 495 pilots and 402 weapons systems officers
trained in F-15E for total of 4,200 graduates.
19 April 1995 Luke acted as staging area for local rescue team which assisted in
Oklahoma City bombing disaster.
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1 July 1995 LANTIRN confidence check area used to calibrate avionics prior
to flying to range for mission moved to west to accommodate
Mountain Vista Ranch and Sun City Grande.
13 July 1995 Arizona Senate Bill 1062 became law and required sellers of
dwellings in high noise zones around military airports to disclose
that fact to potential buyers.
24 August 1995 City of Glendale annexed Luke AFB as part of efforts to protect
base from encroachment.
9 September 1995 Members of 56th Medical Group provided medical assistance for
victims of AMTRAK train derailment west of Luke.
1 October 1995 Intricate chain of command caused reassignment of Mission
Ready Technician Program to 82d Training Wing, Sheppard
AFB, Texas. Program became tenant at Luke.
1 December 1995 311th Fighter Squadron inactivated. Its foreign training mission
and most its jets transferred to 162d Fighter Group (Air National
Guard) in Tucson.
22 March 1996 1995 Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) study
released and delineated smaller noise print than previous studies.
1 May 1996 House Bill 2355 became law and required state real estate
department to prepare noise maps allowing potential home
buyers to determine if prospective dwellings located in high noise
areas.
16 May 1996 Last Peace Carvin II F-16A/B jets left Luke as part of plan to
upgrade program to Block 42 F-16C/D jets.
25 June 1996 Terrorist attack on facility in Saudi Arabia killed 19 Americans
and injured 250 more. Among injured were three men from
56th Fighter Wing.
8 August 1996 21st Fighter Squadron activated to conduct F-16 training for
Taiwan AF.
11 September 1996 President Bill Clinton visited Luke during area stop. Was first
such visit since 14 November 1974 when President Gerald Ford
visited base to preside over acceptance ceremony for first F-15.
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6 December 1996 First Block 20 F-16A/B jets, Tail Nos. 93-0705 and 93-0825
landed for 21st Fighter Squadron 's use in Taiwan AF training
program. The A-model, Tail No. 93-0705, piloted by the
squadron Director of Operations, Lt Col John R. Swarsbrook,
landed first. Maj Mike A. Hanson piloted the B-model.
January 1997
Arizona agreed to sell USAF 81,000 acres of state land on range
for $10 million. State initially wanted $40 million.
27 January 1997 It was reported wing to train more basic course students to offset
losses of pilots separating/retiring early. Other added taskings
included training in night vision goggles, Forward Air Controller
(Airborne), Block 52 F-16C/D ground training, and enhanced
Maverick training.
February 1997
1995 AICUZ study noise print revised when it was noted that
improper throttle settings used to compute noise zones. Revised
noise print reduced high noise zones around base by 2,739 acres.
28 February 1997 Taiwan AF F-16 program graduated its first class when four men
in Class 97 CCTW completed conversion course.
1 July 1997 56th Security Police Squadron redesignated security forces sq.
Sonoran Pronghorn Antelope
27 August 1997 US Fish and Wildlife Service issued opinion that air operations
on Goldwater Range not likely to jeopardize continued existence
of Sonoran pronghorn antelope. Environmentalist group’s charge
that air-to-ground missions jeopardized existence of that
endangered species prompted US Fish and Wildlife Service
opinion.
26 September 1997 City of Surprise signed Arizona League of Cities and Towns
resolution for development of strategic plan to preserve state's
military airports.
29 October 1997 First Forward Air Controller (Airborne) class, 98 AFG, and its
four students completed training with 310th Fighter Squadron.
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30 November 1997 Wing's mission capable (MC) rate for F-16 dropped below major
command standard for the first time since August 1984, and was
prelude to parts-supply problems which affected wing into 1999.
January 1998
Gila Bend AICUZ study completed due to increased operations at
field and to provide guidance in land planning in area.
7 February 1998 Chronic parts shortfall resulted in Saturday flying to ensure
programmed fighter training completed on time.
12 February 1998 It was reported that Arizona House Bill 2515 which sought to
constrict fly zones around military airports was killed in
committee.
18 March 1998 A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 reported low fuel and diverted
to Luke where it landed safely.
8 April 1998 It was reported El Mirage planned zoning changes that could
have allowed residential development 1.5 miles from base's
accident potential zones.
29 May 1998 Longtime USAF supporter Senator Barry M. Goldwater
succumbed at age 89.
Capt Barry M. Goldwater, when a World War II Instructor Pilot at Luke Field
22
2 June 1998 425th Fighter Squadron began another upgrade for Peace
Carvin II Program from Block 42 to Block 52 jets with the arrival
of Tail Nos. 94-0276 (D-model) and 94-0266 (C-model).
15 July 1998 ASU West study put economic impact of base at $1.9 billion
annually.
30 July 1998 US Senators John McCain and Jon Kyl (Rep, Arizona) attached
amendment to Defense Appropriations Bill for USAF to lease
640-acre parcel north of base from Phoenix for $1 annually to
prevent Surprise from seizing land for development. USAF
downsizing so service did not enter into lease.
24 August 1998 El Mirage gave tentative OK for projects in base's high noise
zones including 1,000 Hancock homes, 600 Broad Land
Properties units, and 708 Parque Verde structures.
28 September 1998 310th Fighter Squadron mobile training team began night vision
goggles training for Air National Guard pilots.
2 October 1998 Wing submitted draft LEIS under Land Withdrawal Act to
Congress requesting Goldwater Range be withdrawn from public
use indefinitely rather than for 15 years.
October 1998 Engine parts shortfalls saw wing with 39 holes in February 1998.
In April wing started getting parts and by end of October turned
39 holes into first spare engine in five years.
14 October 1998 Westside leaders explored 17,000-acre agricultural buffer zone
around Luke to protect it from encroachment.
19 November 1998 56TRS graduated first Block 52 class (ground training) when six
men in Class 99 AJX completed training.
18 February 1999 Engine summit held at Luke to look at problem areas in 220/E
engine. Summit recommended more funds for fixes to 220/E
engine on AETC F-16s and USAF F-15s, and GE F110 engine
that powered most F-16s.
27 March 1999 56th Fighter Wing leadership joined USAF leadership in naming
engine problems as cause of recent aircraft losses at Luke.
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27 March 1999 Jet losses caused renewed calls for establishment of 17,000 acre
agricultural zone around base to protect it from encroachment.
27 April 1999 Wing leadership addressed media after sixth jet loss in six
months and noted four of losses due to engine problems.
30 April 1999 Wing posted 62.6 MC rate, lowest F-16 MC rate ever for a Luke
unit. Driving factors were engines and grounding of fleet for
safety inspections.
17 May 1999 HB 2579 creating agricultural district around Luke signed into
law but not funded.
31 May 1999 It was reported US Senator John McCain withdrew his
amendment designed to withdraw range from public use from
Military Funding Bill because of pressure by environmentalists
and Indians.
11 June 1999 Augmentor separation problem that caused two jet losses
resolved. Fix included performing multiple technical orders on
augmentors for cracks in welds. Permanent fix was installing
seamless augmentors in engines.
26 June 1999 Environmentalist group sued USAF and other federal agencies
charging their actions not ensuring recovery of endangered
Sonoran pronghorn antelope on range.
26 June 1999 Wing submitted LEIS to Congress for renewal of range
withdrawal.
30 June 1999 Blade tip curling that caused loss of jet resolved. Fix included
more inspections and installing 4,000 cycle low pressure turbines
with improved materials not prone to curling. New turbines had
faulty blade outer air seals (BOAS). Fix was installing new
BOAS.
30 June 1999 Series of F-16 losses prompted President Bill Clinton, US
Senator John McCain, and acting USAF Secretary F. Whitten
Peters to call for Congress to allocate more funds for engines and
spare parts.
1 July 1999 Phoenix/Surprise dispute over 640 acres in base's fly zone
resolved by land swap. Surprise traded Phoenix 926 acres north
of base which Phoenix planned to keep as agricultural zoning.
Phoenix gave Surprise 640-acre parcel, but with deed restrictions
to ensure compatible development with base's operations.
20 September 1999 Wing lost seventh jet in 11 months. Loss not traced to recent
trends as was due to electrical problems. Loss of seven jets
extraordinary in modern times, but paled when compared to
1940s when Luke had over 400 crashes in a year. Worst period
was September 1943 when had 58 major accidents.
24
5 October 1999 Congress approved withdrawal of Goldwater Range from public
use for 25-year period. USAF/Navy took over range
management from Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Cabeza
Prieta Wilderness Area that made up third of range not
withdrawn. No effect on training as memorandum of
understanding with Department of Interior still allowed over
flights of area. Approval required compilation of Integrated
Natural Resources Management Plan and Integrated Cultural
Resources Management Plan.
31 December 1999 On-going shortage of pilots due to early separations/retirements,
resulted in plan to implement Associate F-16 Instructor Pilot
Program designed to reassign some wing Instructor Pilots to
operational units to alleviate pilot shortages, and augment wing's
dwindling Instructor Pilot force with active Guard, Reserve and
traditional Reserve Instructor Pilots.
4 January 2000 Mission of 21st Fighter Squadron changed from providing F-16
qualification training for Taiwan AF pilots to providing
proficiency training for pilots already qualified in jet.
25 January 2000 First Associate Instructor Pilot Program sortie flown with the
62d Fighter Squadron.
February 2000
Wing conducted first deployment in support of Expeditionary
Aerospace Force (EAF). Sent 75 personnel to Middle East. EAF
was asset management concept designed to protect US interests
in world hot spots by ensuring US presence in those areas.
3 March 2000 301st Fighter Squadron activated to implement associate
Instructor Pilot program. Unit assigned to 944th Fighter Wing,
but under operational control of 56th Operations Group.
8 March 2000 Luke produced 50,000th fighter training graduate since 1941 as
1st Lt Joshua G. Padgett completed basic course with 62d Fighter
Squadron.
17 April 2000 Senate Bill 1415 became law. It amended previous legislation,
and required attorney general to review mandatory reports from
cities for compatible land use planning. Gave attorney general
authority to penalize cities for non-compliance.
25 May 2000 Surprise officials' objections to developer's plan resulted in
dropping 700 homes from project and no homes planned in high
noise zones.
22 July 2000 Parts shortfall resulted in Saturday flying to meet programmed
flying training requirements.
5 August 2000 Parts shortages caused Saturday flying to meet training schedule.
25
20 September 2000 Northern departures with live ordnance terminated due to
proposed building of two new schools. Live ordnance missions
restricted to departures to south.
20 September 2000 Encroachment concerns arose over proposed 10,000-home
development near White Tanks Mountains and under an
entry/departure control point for base's air traffic.
20 October 2000 AETC officials named Luke on short list for possible beddown of
joint strike fighter.
28 November 2000 US Senator John McCain warned next round of base closures
could name Luke to close because of encroachment.
9 December 2000 Continuing pilot losses resulted in reassignment of 944th Fighter
Wing from ACC to AETC and unit joining 56th Fighter Wing;
Kelly AFB, Texas; Springfield Air National Guard Base, Ohio;
and 162FW in Tucson in providing F-16 qualification training.
23 January 2001 Local landowner, neighbor, and longtime Luke supporter, Mrs
Edith Denny, succumbed at age 90. She was daughter of Paul
and Florence Litchfield who arrived in area in 1916 and were
major economic force in West Valley.
13 February 2001 Federal judge ruled for AF biological assessment and
Environmental Impact Statement in suit over antelope filed by
environmentalist group (see 26 June 1999 entry); however, suit
not dismissed against other defendants. No impact on fighter
training.
4 May 2001 House Bill 1120 signed into law and provided funding for
agricultural district around Luke (see entry for 17 May 1999).
18 May 2001 El Mirage Mayor Roy Delgado pledged support for Luke and
promised not to build homes south of Peoria Ave that encroached
on base.
13 June 2001 Wing headquarters moved from bldg S-11 at main gate to bldg
452 near flightline in a move to enhance force protection.
26
1 July 2001 Senate Bill 1525 became law. Directed compatible development
in areas affected by state's military airports. Law also extended
base's southern accident potential zone from 15,000 to 30,000
feet.
10 July 2001 Phoenix/Tempe dispute on flight safety hazards at Sky Harbor
Airport due to proposed new football stadium resulted in
resurrection of question of regional airport at Casa Grande.
Governor's Regional Airport Advisory Committee on 18 May
1993 had voted against such a proposal and named Williams
AFB as a reliever airport. Regional airport at Casa Grande could
have impacted Luke's access to range.
20 July 2001 State Attorney General's opinion on SB 1525 determined it did
not apply to school districts (see 1 July 2001 entry). Resulted in
state school facilities board decision to expand three schools in
base's noise/accident zones. Board, however, planned to move
location of two new schools out of zones.
26 August 2001 Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld told US senators he wanted
a round of base closures to save money. US Senator John
McCain noted more personnel planned for state's bases and said
that, "…bodes well for Luke and Davis-Monthan."
Pentagon After the 9-11 Attack.
11 September 2001 Terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, District of
Columbia resulted in highest level of force protection at Luke,
launching of 27 combat air patrol missions over Phoenix
Metroplex, and deployment of 65 personnel (as of 31 December
2001) in support of war on terrorism.
27 October 2001 The media reported that Defense Department planned to ask
Congress for relief from environmental requirements for military
ranges, because those requirements were adversely impacting
training and readiness.
6 November 2001 Air Force/Navy assumed management of Goldwater Range from
BLM.
27
13 November 2001 944th Fighter Wing began F-16 qualification training.
6 December 2001 Wing/Tohono O'odham Nation signed memo of understanding on
continued over flights of reservation as required by executive
order.
7 December 2001 State’s fiscal shortfalls resulted in funding cuts for Luke
agricultural preservation district under SB 1120. (see entry 4 May
2001).
14 December 2001 Media reported Congress OKs round of base closures in 2005.
December 2001
Ocotillo Manor base housing vacated in preparation for
demolition and construction of new housing complex.
15 January 2002 308th Fighter Squadron joined 310th Fighter Squadron in
providing night vision goggles training to satisfy combat air
forces' request that all F-16 pilots be qualified in the device.
24 January 2002 El Mirage started building in 75 decibel area three miles north of
base's runways.
February 2002
Congressional staffers alerted to negative effects of regional
airspace systems plan. Effects included actions by local airports
that would impact military training routes/operating areas, close
LANTIRN confidence check route, affect access to range, affect
simulated flameout pattern, restrict use of Gladden/Baghdad
during inclement weather, and increase air traffic controller
workloads. Commercial/general aviation growth resulted in loss
of 290 Luke flying hours in August 2001.
23 March 2002 US Senator John McCain met area leadership and charged all to
reach consensus on actions to resolve developments impacting
base's southern corridor to range. He stressed local action and
did not indicate federal government becoming involved.
17 April 2002 State criticized in media for spending $31 million on yet-to-bebuilt
football stadium, but only $0.5 million to protect asset with
$1.9 billion annual economic impact, Luke AFB.
29 April 2002 Luke first base removed from Superfund List. List designed to
locate/sanitize sites where past practices resulted in generation of
hazardous waste. All 33 sites found on base sanitized.
6 May 2002 Governor signed SB 1393 which rectified shortcomings in
SB 1525 (see entry for 01 July 2001) by expanding definitions of
political subdivisions to include schools as prohibited from
construction in military airport noise/accident zones.
8 May 2002 Wing leadership told Goodyear City Council if southern air
corridors at Luke threatened and stifle operations and efficiency
at base, then Luke could be targeted for closure.
28
9 May 2002 Massive 14,000-home development called Verrado launched on
8,800 acres near White Tanks Mountains in Buckeye and
southwest of base.
13 May 2002 Air encroachment in growing Phoenix metro area and its negative
effects on a high-value asset, Luke AFB, was brought to attention
of general public in front page article in area's major daily.
14 May 2002 Glendale-commissioned McGuire study revealed military had
$5.6 billion annual economic impact on state. Luke's impact was
$1.4 billion and lower than previously thought due to survey
guidelines.
5 June 2002 Robsen communities reduced Goodyear development in Luke's
noise zone from 204 to 145 homes. Goodyear used 1995 noise
print instead of 1988 noise contours in zoning property. Now
city wanted no homes built in noise zone.
7 June 2002 944th Fighter Wing graduated its first class from F-16
qualification training. Class 02-AB had six students. All
944th Fighter Wing students received ground training with
56th Training Squadron and, therefore, were counted in
56th Fighter Wing student production totals.
11 June 2002 Undersecretary Defense Installations/Environment Raymond F.
Dubois, Jr., asked Congress for relief from environmental laws
for military.
17 June 2002 Plight of Duncan Farms located in southern APZ featured in area
media. Farm toured 20,000 visitors annually since 1992, but
2001 expansion of APZ and shift of most base operations to
south affected safety of farm and its visitors.
24 June 2002 Goodyear approved actions to request right-of-way use of state
land easements south of base to protect Luke by developing noise
abatement and accident mitigation corridor.
June 2002
An environmental assessment required when wing shifted most
operations to the south revealed shift had no significant impact
on environment.
12 August 2002 Wing leadership briefed on plan to build cargo airport nine miles
west of Gila Bend. Facility would impact Luke’s access to range
and commercial air routes to San Diego and LA. Luke opposed
the facility and Gila Bend government did not support it.
13 August 2002 Pentagon began working with National Governors Association to
develop laws governing state-wide military compatible land uses.
29
21 August 2002 The (Representative) Bob Stump (Rep Arizona) National
Defense Authorization Act's Cooperative Buffer Zone
Acquisition Program implemented and allowed military to enter
discussions on encroachment near military bases, and to acquire
property near bases to limit incompatible development or
preserve habitat where environmental restrictions affected
training.
26 August 2002 Fund raising began for 5,000-student Catholic university as part
of Verrado planned community in Buckeye (see entry 9 May
2002).
30 August 2002 Surprise OK'd 318-acre development called Litchfield Manor,
partly in base's high noise zone. City explained had to OK
project as area zoned prior to 2001 when smaller 1995 noise print
used rather than larger 1988 print mandated by state law.
14 September 2002 West Valley/Luke Regional Land Use Open House held to get
inputs from various publics on land use near Luke. Comments
from attendees to be included in Arizona Military Airports
Regional Compatibility Project report in attempt to merge
general plans of 10 cities and desires of land owners.
19 September 2002 Duncan Farms located in southern APZ agreed to stop student
tours of farm (see entry 17 June 2002).
26 September 2002 Wing leadership noted RJ Springer Homes building 1,000 homes
on one acre lots near Luke Aux Field #1 where 13,000 operations
conducted annually.
27 September 2002 Wing reached initial operating capability under new standard
wing structure. Major change was returning to specialization
with jets and technicians reassigned from operations group to
logistics group which was redesignated a maintenance group.
11 October 2002 US Senate approved $13 million for land acquisition near Luke.
17 October 2002 Phoenix area's lack of water seen as affecting unchecked
development; however, Buckeye annexed 35,000 acres which
included Hassayampa River watershed, the richest aquifer in
state, and had plans for a community of up to 80,000 homes.
26 October 2002 National Governors Association Center for Best Practices said
Arizona a leader in using legislation to protect military airports.
6 December 2002 It was learned that Veterans Administration and Federal Housing
Administration home loan guidelines did not deny loans for
homes in high noise areas.
7 December 2002 Surprise dedicated monument on former site of Luke's Aux
Field #3 to pilots who trained at base in World War II.
30
14 December 2002 Some 100,000 active duty, retiree and dependents in Arizona
faced possible identity theft resulting from theft of records and
equipment during burglary at Phoenix TriWest HMO.
31 December 2002 Engine/spare parts problems that resulted in low MC rates since
June 2000 eased and resulted in wing exceeding MC rate
standard from September through December 2002.
11 February 2003 A 186-person Air National Guard contingent arrived at Luke to
augment base's security forces.
11 February 2003 It was reported Goodyear to purchase Duncan Farms for
$3.5 million (see entry 17 June 2002).
27 February 2003 Wing leadership named city of Surprise development plans as
greatest threat to continued operation of Luke AFB.
12 March 2003 Stop Loss implemented to ensure units had sufficient personnel
to conduct mission. Affected 680 wing personnel who had
approved retirement/separation dates.
20 March 2003 Operation IRAQI FREEDOM began.
22 March 2003 Arizona Dept of Commerce released Western Maricopa/Luke
AFB Regional Compatibility Plan. Plan sought to meld land use
desires of military, government officials and landowners in areas
affected by base's operations.
4 April 2003 Wing officials criticized regional compatibility plan for shifting
from looking for compatible use of land near base to
compensating landowners for loss of use (see 22 March 2003
entry).
8 April 2003 Fighter Country Coalition sent letter to Intermodal Group
opposing group’s plan to build airport at Gila Bend. Said facility
would jeopardize military mission in Arizona (see entry for
12 August 2002).
22 April 2003 Gila Bend Town Council approved Resolution 03-10 which
enhanced military use of Gila Bend AFAF and, therefore,
stopped Intermodal Group Airport (see entry 12 August 2002).
25 April 2003 Peoria to spend $25,000 to motivate area cities to raise over
$100,000 to hire firm to lobby Congress for funds to buy land
around Luke.
1 May 2003 President Bush announced end to large scale operations in
support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM.
8 May 2003 Talks began with Glendale for building of public training facility
in base’s southern corridor. Seen as compatible use.
10 May 2003 Surprise passed ordnance directing real estate offices display
maps of Luke’s noise zones.
31
16 May 2003 Dysart School District projected to grow from 9,000 to over
16,000 in 2007 and require eight new schools.
20 May 2003 Surprise mayor wins re-election on platform to protect Luke.
22 May 2003 Goodyear had 3,718 acres in southern departure corridor; planned
99 percent of land for compatible use with Luke’s mission.
22 May 2003 Two days after re-election on platform on saving Luke, Surprise
mayor voted to OK 1,300 homes in base’s high noise zone.
23 May 2003 County had flood plain on approach to Aux #1 and planned flood
basins in southern APZ; seen as compatible land use.
27 May 2003 US Senator John McCain/Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano
criticized Surprise mayor for actions seen as detrimental to
national defense and illegal (see entry for 22 May 2003).
27 May 2003 It was reported Buckeye residents OK’d annexing of Douglas
Ranch where town planned 80,000-home community.
27 May 2003 Governor’s Military Facilities Task Force established by
executive order to demonstrate to DoD state ready to enhance
and maintain military presence in Arizona.
10 June 2003 F-16 crash traced to manufacturing defects in engine turbine
blade. Forced stand down of 70 percent of 56th Fighter Wing
jets. Problem affected all F-16/F-15 users of F100 engine.
13 June 2003 Arizona attorney general defined grandfathering in SB 1525 (see
entry 1 July 2001) as development plan/zoning approved before
2001.
16 June 2003 56th Fighter Wing formed Community Initiatives Team to work
encroachment by improving communication with cities and
stakeholders.
16 June 2003 In an about face, Surprise voted to rezone Kenly Farms II from
residential to commercial.
18 June 2003 Surprise reacted to criticisms by noting that El Mirage approved
10 times more dwellings than county and other towns near base.
20 June 2003 Retired US Representative Bob Stump succumbed at age 76. He
headed House Armed Services Committee until retiring last year.
Media said he was factor in Luke's surviving past base closures.
32
11 July 2003 A rebuilt Ocotillo Manor base housing complex south of
Glendale Ave opened for occupancy with 95 new units.
12 July 2003 Surprise changed policy and began to restrict residential
development near base.
24 July 2003 Work began on joint land use study for Aux #1. Study to use
F-16 noise profiles and suggest compatible land uses.
31 July 2003 Stop Loss ended (see entry 12 March 2003)
15 August 2003 It was reported base housing to convert to civilian contract in
2005 and housing to be reduced from 874 units to 425.
1 September 2003 CSAF directed 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels flight
moved to 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron in move
designed to place sortie support units under one maintenance unit
commander.
30 September 2003 56th Fighter Wing attained full operational capability in new
combat wing structure (see entry 27 September 2002).
30 September 2003 Wing ended FY03 with average MC rate of 83.4, despite safety
stand downs due to engine problems.
1 October 2003 Air Force blue suiter positions for back shop support to 21/425th
Fighter Squadron converted to 119 Air Force civilian positions.
8 October 2003 US Navy DC-9 experienced in-flight emergency and made safe
landing at nearest haven, Luke AFB.
33
14 October 2003 Fish and Wildlife declared DART tow targets on Cabeza Prieta
as habitat thereby negating need for 56th Fighter Wing to retrieve
targets.
17 October 2003 56th Fighter Wing received its first Block 32 F-16, Tail No.
86-0296, from the 944th Fighter Wing as a backfill jet.
13 November 2003 It was reported US Customs Service conducted three weeks of
tests of Predator unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) on Goldwater
Range to determine feasibility of using UAV for surveillance
along the US/Mexican border south of Gila Bend.
15 November 2003 Landowners value land near base at $60,000 per acre.
20 November 2003 Surprise planned to annex Aux #1 to control lot splitting.
November 2003 2003 AICUZ released because of change in noise zones resulting
from shifting of operations from north to the south.
4 November 2003 Congress allocated $14.3 million for land acquisition near base.
5 December 2003 It was reported that DoD received Congressional approval to
begin Base Realignment And Closure Commission (BRAC)
process.
17 December 2003 Senator John McCain noted Congress approved $14.3 million for
Luke land acquisition. Warned area leaders that federal
government alone could not protect Luke. He asked that state,
county, local governments step up and raise funds for land
acquisition around base.
17 December 2003 Wing official noted success of graduated density concept that
allowed low density development near noise zones and increased
densities away from those areas. Plan favored by local towns and
DoD planned to possibly use it at all installations.
17 December 2003 City of Surprise praised for turning from anti-Luke to pro-Luke
decisions on land use.
31 December 2003 56th Fighter Wing deployed 645 men and women to locations
throughout world in support of humanitarian/peacekeeping
operations.
31 December 2003 Captive breeding program began for Sonoran pronghorn antelope
with construction of large pen in Cabeza Prieta Wildlife Refuge.
Program attempted to save endangered local herd from
extinction.
31 December 2003 House Bill 2605 going through legislative process; was designed
to protect all state’s military installations.
31 December 2003 Wing encroachment officials worked to place 26 new schools
near Luke in least hazardous locations.
34
31 December 2003 Arizona Public Service cooperated with base by ensuring new
power poles to service growing communities near Luke did not
affect flight paths or communications.
31 December 2003 City of Surprise to annex near Aux #1 to prevent lot splitting and
protect field from encroachment.
31 December 2003 County against Phase IV of Patton Place Estates near Aux #1 for
safety reasons.
31 December 2003 Natural gas storage facility planned near Luke was seen as threat
to health and safety of base personnel.
31 December 2003 It was reported that 221 individuals died in 2003 attempting to
cross Sonoran Desert from Mexico to US.
18 January 2004 It was reported property owners near Aux #1 formed group called
Arizona Coalition to Protect Property Rights.
3 February 2004 Force Shaping program implemented to reduce manning in-line
with Congressionally-directed personnel ceilings.
3 March 2004 Governor formed permanent Military Affairs Commission to deal
with preservation/growth of military installations in state.
19 March 2004 Pinal County officials denied zoning for La Osa Ranch north of
Tucson which would have negatively impacted access to range.
31 March 2004 First stakeholders’ meeting held to explain land purchase
program.
5 April 2004 Falcon Star began and was designed to increase service life of
jets through improvements to fuselage and structural
components.
19 April 2004 Governor signed HB 2141 which provided same protection for
Aux #1 rest of state’s military airports enjoyed.
23 April 2004 Governor signed HB 2134 which prohibited construction of
natural gas storage facility near Luke (see entry 31 December
2003).
26 April 2004 Governor signed HB 2662 requiring state real estate maps depict
military training routes.
17 May 2004 Governor signed HB 2140 which established a funding stream to
buy easements/property that encroached on base.
18 May 2004 A 30-member contingent of civilian contract workers began
augmenting Luke’s security forces to enhance force protection.
May 2004
JLUS for Aux #1 completed.
6 July 2004 USAF senior leader postulated half F-16 fleet could be retired
due to base closures and to save money for other programs.
35
14 July 2004 First purchase of 143 of 273 acres for force protection near
munitions storage area completed for $950,000.
15 July 2004 Maintenance of 21st Fighter Squadron jets converted from blue
suiter to civilian contract.
1 October 2004 Manpower office reassigned from wing to 56th Mission Support
Group in move to align specialties with similar functions.
1 October 2004 A test that reassigned 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels to
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron to determine any benefits
to sortie generation ended with no significant results (see entry
1 September 2003). Fuels to be returned to 56th Logistics
Readiness Squadron.
7 October 2004 Group of West Valley leaders met with DoD officials to stress
area’s support for continued existence of Luke AFB.
12 October 2004 City of Surprise announced city land near Aux #1 to be rezoned
for airport preservation.
12 October 2004 Goldwater Range Task Force met by Congressional directive find
ways endangered species on range and military use of facility
could co-exist.
1 November 2004 186-person Army Guard contingent defederalized and relieved
from Luke security augmentee duties (see entry 11 February
2003).
1 November 2004 Augmentee Duty Program (READY) began drawing personnel
from various specialties to augment base security forces.
20 November 2004 LANTIRN confidence check flight path to calibrate instruments
prior to LANTIRN mission moved for second time (see entry
1 July 1995) due to planned developments.
30 November 2004 56th Medical Group announced planned major reduction in
medical services as directed by higher headquarters.
8 December 2004 Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano met with DoD official to
stress area’s support for continued existence of Luke.
9 December 2004 Wing officials noted range closed 37 times in 2004 so Border
Patrol could remove groups that wandered onto range.
28 December 2004 It was announced that an endangered species on range, the
pronghorn antelope, was rebounding from near extinction as its
numbers increased from less than two dozen to some 58 animals.
31 December 2004 56th Fighter Wing deployed 401 personnel worldwide in support
of humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
36
31 December 2004 Wing leadership outlined Luke's requirements as facility from
which to take off and land (Luke AFB), access to range,
continued use of Aux #1 and Gila Bend where 12,000 and 45,000
operations, respectively, conducted annually (loss of two sites
would move those operations to Luke and quadruple base's noise
zones), and continued use of Baghdad/Gladden Airspace.
December 2004
Congressed passed the Readiness/Environmental Protection
Initiative (REPI) which provided the military with funds to
purchase land to stem incompatible land use.
25 February 2005 It was reported 244 acres near munitions storage area purchased
for $3 million from SunCor (see 14 July 2004 entry).
February 2005
Joint Land Use Study completed on Gila Bend and Goldwater
Range.
7 March 2005 Range task force (see entry 12 October 2004) reported to
Congress on coexistence of antelope on range and air operations
thru continued captive breeding and forage enhancement
programs.
8 March 2005 Surprise voters OK Prop 300 rezoning 106-acre Kenly Farms II
from residential to commercial.
11 March 2005 Expeditionary Thunderbolt Training implemented to give
deploying personnel look at combat scenarios they might face at
deployed sites.
2 April 2005 308th Fighter Squadron jets were the first wing F-16s to fly
dissimilar air combat missions against the F-22 Raptor during
deployment to Tyndall AFB, Florida.
4 April 2005 It was reported one acre Phoenix land in MSA procured for $15,
400 which completed land purchases in MSA area.
7 April 2005 Phoenix mayor issued proclamation that 920 acres north of base
to be zoned for compatible use with base’s mission.
3 May 2005 Border Patrol began flying three-to-four nightly helicopter
missions from Gila Bend AFAF over range to detect
undocumented aliens.
9 May 2005 Goodyear/Pebble Creek dispute over 145 homes in high noise
zone resolved by moving building site to new location of
increased density. Settlement of dispute resulted in all 3,783
acres in southern departure corridor being zoned for compatible
use.
13 May 2005 BRAC announced 56th Fighter Wing to lose 37 jets as well as
278 slots.
37
25 May 2005 Contingent from Polish AF visited base after Poland bought 48
F-16s.
25 June 2005 Wildfires contained after burning 58,000 acres on range.
6 July 2005 Wing’s fleet grew by three jets when Republic of Singapore AF
unit at Cannon AFB, NM, inactivated and sent three jets to
425th Fighter Squadron.
15 July 2005 Over 70 near misses since 2000 prompted wing to call for
creation of special airspace rule.
29 August 2005 President George W. Bush visited base. It was third visit by a
sitting US President. President Gerald Ford visited on
14 November 1974 and President Bill Clinton on 11 September
1996.
4 September 2005 The first 54 of a contingent of 93 people from wing deployed to
Gulf Coast to aid in relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina which
damaged 95 percent of facilities at Keesler AFB.
15 September 2005 President Bush endorsed BRAC commission’s recommendations
for base closures and realignments. Wing to lose 22 jets as well
as 425 positions. However, which jets the wing was to lose was
to be decided on by wing officials.
15 September 2005 Common Configuration Implementation Program (CCIP) began;
designed to upgrade selected systems on Block 42 jets to Block
52 capabilities.
21 September 2005 56th Medical Group contingent deployed to Dominica and
treated 3,000.
23 September 2005 Base’s two main gates closed indefinitely for force protection and
due to personnel shortfalls caused by hurricane relief and
Southwest Asia deployments.
28 September 2005 Services terminated at 56th Medical Group ambulatory
procedures unit and operating rooms.
29 September 2005 Services terminated at 56th Medical Group extended hours clinic
and podiatry.
19 October 2005 Women’s Health Clinic closed.
8 November 2005 BRAC commission’s recommendations passed into law by
Congress.
14 November 2005 First basic course air-to-ground exercise held at Gila Bend
utilizing bare-base environment for students to gain experience in
flying/fighting from undeveloped sites.
38
31 December 2005 Wing deployed some 644 personnel to various locations
throughout the world to assist in peacekeeping/humanitarian
efforts.
31 December 2005 Wing official stated Wittman resident’s suit to challenge
HB 2141 protecting Aux #1 would be defeated in court for the
second time.
31 December 2005 Mobile training teams from 310th Fighter Squadron train 46 in
Forward Air Controller (Airborne) course.
31 December 2005 Lease for 700 acres at Aux #1 up for renewal and state wanted
price increase from $35,000 to $140,000 annually for 10 years.
Negotiations resulted in price lowered to $70,000 annually for
savings of $700,000.
11 January 2006 USAF announced cuts in aerial fleet to gain funds for F/A-22.
3 February 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review released and stressed leaner,
meaner force to include cuts in personnel to fund recapitalization
of new weapons systems.
17 March 2006 Hands-on cell phone use while driving outlawed at Luke.
ca. March 2006
Environmental Impact Statement completed on integrated natural
resource management plan for range.
9 May 2006 Site activation task force for BRAC-directed 944th Fighter Wing
realignment held at Luke.
22 May 2006 Expeditionary Thunderbolt Training (see entry 11 March 2005)
designed to give deploying members training in possible
scenarios they might face at deployed sites moved to Gila Bend
to take advantage of bare base/desert environment.
29 May 2006 Some 180 sorties over the Baghdad-Gladden Area and Aux #1
cancelled over a four-day period when glider meet at Pleasant
Valley Airport posed what base officials felt was safety hazard to
F-16 pilots flying in areas.
1 June 2006 Enlisted Club terminated evening dining and administrative
functions. Those services available for all ranks at Officers’
Club.
July 2006
Wing formed AF Smart Operations 21 Team to find ways to
work smarter and reduce non-value added functions.
15 August 2006 First 944th Fighter Wing jet, F-16C 86-0273, left Luke under
BRAC directive that unit was to lose all 17 of its F-16s and some
480 personnel authorizations.
23 August 2006 CSAF directed 40,000 personnel cut to gain funds for weapons
systems recapitalization.
39
2 September 2006 Sixteen-member team which included nine people from
56th Medical Group deployed to Guatemala where treated 7,500,
and give out more than 14,000 prescriptions.
14 September 2006 Mark Grace Thunderbolt Field officially dedicated. The new
baseball field in Fowler Park was a $300,000 project funded by
Summit Builders, the Arizona Diamondbacks, and former D-back
player, Mark Grace.
30 September 2006 Wing deployed 647 men and women from 41 specialties to
numerous locations within the nation and foreign sites to support
humanitarian and peacekeeping operations.
31 October 2006 Class 06 C2L with two students in Transition course was last
class trained by 944th Fighter Wing.
4 October 2006 USAF announced new F-35 joint strike fighter to be based at
Eglin AFB, FL for flight/maintenance training.
7 November 2006 Prop 207 designed to restrict zoning or face litigation passed by
voters.
November 2006
Environmentalist group filed intent to sue US Fish and Wildlife
Service and wing for delisting Bald eagle on range from
endangered species list.
25 November 2006 It was announced base housing to be privatized on 1 January
2006 (see entry 15 August 2003).
27 November 2006 Construction began on Litchfield Park overpass to ease
congestion and aid force protection.
31 December 2006 BRAC decisions resulted in 56th Fighter Wing losing 425
personnel authorizations, retirement of 22 jets. Decision made
that all jets to be retired were Block 25 models (see entry
15 September 2005).
31 December 2006 56th Fighter Wing official sees plans for 300 percent increase in
local airports.
31 December 2006 Wing briefings to general aviation pilots accompanied by
decrease in near misses. Request for special airspace traffic rule
at FAA in Washington, District of Columbia.
31 December 2006 Purchase price of 634 acres in south accident potential zone 2 of
a staggering $87,000 an acre or $55 million resulted in deletion
of property from any acquisition attempts.
31 December 2006 Landowners' price for sale of property 400 percent above Corps
of Engineers offers. Led to condemnation actions which owners
favored as could get higher price through arbitration.
31 December 2006 Some $l8.8 million of $27 million Congress appropriated for land
purchase were obligated.
40
25 January 2007 10,000-acre site near Gila Bend approved for Volkswagen test
track; seen as compatible land use with air operations at Gila
Bend.
6 February 2007 Base Housing transferred to civilian firm under privatization
program (see entry 15 September 2005).
12 February 2007 Last three 944th Fighter Wing F-16s left Luke AFB in
preparation for inactivation of 302d Fighter Squadron.
27 February 2007 USAF leadership signed the record of decision on integrated
natural resources management plan which was compiled by
direction of the Congress (see entry for 5 October 1999).
10 March 2007 In-line with BRAC decisions, the 944th Fighter Wing’s
944th Maintenance Group and 302d Fighter Squadron were
inactivated.
14 March 2007 Navy officials sign record of decision on Integrated Natural
Resources Management Plan (see entry for 5 October 1999).
6 May 2007 56th Fighter Wing leadership signed the final Integrated Natural
Resources Management Plan (see 5 October 1999 entry).
12 April 2007 56th Fighter Wing initially to lose 37 jets under BRAC, but
Change 06-01 directed 944th Fighter Wing lose 15 jets and
56th Fighter Wing 22 (see entry 13 May 2005).
22 June 2007 Giant Voice public address system activated at Luke AFB.
1 August 2007 Public Affairs and multimedia merged to increase utility of
scarce personnel assets.
17 August 2007 It was reported USAF leadership to direct reorganization to
global wing structure where jets and technicians reassigned from
maintenance complex to Operations Group.
30 September 2007 56th Fighter Wing FY07 budget reduced by $67 million when
costs for aviation gas Air Force-wide consolidated and paid for
by office in the Air Staff.
30 September 2007 56th Fighter Wing deployed 465 men and women during FY07 to
national and international sites to support peacekeeping and
humanitarian operations.
30 September 2007 All but $800,000 of $13 million appended to FY03 MILCON
program was obligated to purchase land/easements.
1 October 2007 Information technicians moved from offices and consolidated
mostly at group level to increase utility of those personnel.
1 October 2007 56th Fighter Wing FY08 budget reduced by $147 million when
costs for parts Air Force-wide consolidated and paid for by office
in Air Staff.
41
1 October 2007 Life support/survival equipment technicians moved from fighter
squadrons and consolidated at 56 OSS to increase their utility.
22 October 2007 Thirty F/A-18 Hornets from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar
deployed to Luke as part of a move to protect the aircraft from
fires raging throughout southern California.
14 November 2007 First 56th Fighter Wing jet reassigned under BRAC was F-16D,
Tail No. 83-1175 to 162FW, Tucson Airport.
18 December 2007 Lightning Street on base renamed Gillespie Drive for
MSgt Randy J. Gillespie of the 56th Logistics Readiness
Squadron who was killed on 9 July 2007 in combat while TDY to
Afghanistan.
31 December 2007 Some $6 million of $14.3 million appended to FY04 MILCON
program for purchase land/easements remained unobligated.
9 January 2008 Army agreed to second antelope captive breeding pen near Yuma
Proving Grounds (see entry 31 December 2003).
28 January 2008 Overpass over Glendale Ave opened to traffic and dedicated to
Major Troy Gilbert who lost his life in Iraq on 27 November
2006.
15 February 2008 Wing leadership announced 63d Fighter Squadron to inactivate in
2009 to comply with BRAC directives on F-16 realignment at
Luke (see 15 September 2005 entry).
26 February 2008 63d Fighter Squadron Class 08 ALL and its four members first to
complete F-22 Raptor Lead-in Course.
28 February 2008 It was announced that plan to merge 56th Services Squadron and
56th Mission Support Squadron nearing approval.
10 March 2008 BRAC directive moving LANTIRN pods/personnel to Hill AFB,
Utah, completed.
10 March 2008 BRAC directive moving positions to Eglin AFB, Florida, for
F-35 stand-up completed.
10 March 2008 BRAC directive moving Logistics Readiness Squadron positions
to Langley AFB, Virginia, for regional supply squadron
completed.
20 March 2008 Attorney general opinion on HB 2141 required development
plan/zoning be approved by 31 December 2004 for
developments near Aux #1. Opinion advantageous for Luke as
would halt incompatible development around Aux #1.
31 March 2008 Force Shaping ended after separating 766 Luke personnel since it
started (see entry 3 February 2004).
42
12 May 2008 CSAF directed reorganization to global wing structure with
inactivation of 56th and 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
and 56th Maintenance Operations Squadron with Aircraft
Maintenance Units realigned to fighter squadrons, movement of
Logistics Readiness Squadron from Mission Support Group to
56th Maintenance Group and redesignation of 56th Maintenance
Group as Materiel Group.
26 May 2008 56th Comptroller Squadron lost 12 authorizations due to transfer
of military pay and travel pay functions to Air Force Financial
Services Center at Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota.
30 May 2008 It was reported Volunteers to the Air Force Program
implemented where members of Arizona Civil Air Patrol
provided manpower assistance to 56th Fighter Wing in noncombat
roles.
5 June 2008 Sec AF Michael Wynne and CSAF Gen Moseley asked to resign
over nuclear incidents.
6 June 2008 It was announced 944th Fighter Wing’s 301st Fighter Squadron
to be reassigned to Holloman AFB, New Mexico. Unit provided
support for 944th Fighter Wing Instructor Pilots augmenting
56th Fighter Wing Instructor Pilots under Associate Instructor
Pilot Program (see entry 31 December 1999). 69th Fighter
Squadron to take over 301st Fighter Squadron mission.
13 June 2008 Last CCIP Block 42 F-16 scheduled for Block 52 upgrades left
Luke (see entry 15 September 2005).
27 June 2008 Acting Secretary of the AF Donley directed delay in
reorganization to global wing structure (see entry for 12 May
2008).
30 June 2008 Program to purchase/lease land/easements to protect base’s
access to range completed.
14 July 2008 Thirty-four of wing’s Block 42 jets found to have cracks in
bulkhead which provided structural rigidity to jets. Flying and
class sizes reduced while repairs on-going.
25 July 2008 Study released by governor’s office puts Luke annual economic
impact at $2.17B.
28 July 2008 Four French AF Rafale jets made first deployment ever to this
nation and Luke AFB for a 10-day practice session prior to
participating in a Red Flag exercise.
27 August 2008 New CSAF Gen Norton A. Schwartz directed reorganization to
Global Wing be halted. (See entry for 12 May 2008.)
43
30 September 2008 State sued Maricopa County for failure to enforce law on
compatible land use near Aux #1 and county sued state over
property rights near Aux #1.
30 September 2008 Luke deployed 684 personnel during FY08 in support of
humanitarian and peace-keeping operations throughout the world.
7 October 2008 Three-day site survey began to determine feasibility of basing
F-35 at Luke; decision expected in 2011.
6 November 2008 Last of 77 jets to receive CCIP upgrades returned from Hill AFB
(see entry 15 September 2005).
24 November 2008 310th Fighter Squadron which had traditionally provided
LANTIRN, Forward Air Controller (Airborne) and night vision
goggles training started instruction in basic course.
9 December 2008 State and municipal officials met with SecAF and CSAF to stress
area’s continued support for existence of Luke and to press for
basing of F-35 at the installation.
10 December 2008 West Valley and state leaders travelled to Pentagon to urge
USAF leaders to base F-35 at Luke.
5 January 2009 US Marine Corps Bulk Fuels Company Charlie moved to Luke to
ease transportation problems and because of high street crime at
old location.
10 February 2009 Superior Court judges rules in favor of state and directed county
to stop issuing building permits which were resulting in
incompatible development near Aux #1.
17 February 2009 107th Air Control Squadron moved to Luke from downtown
Phoenix in move to ease transportation problems.
26 February 2009 56th Services Squadron assumed mission and assets of
56th Mission Support Squadron and was redesignated 56th Force
Support Squadron while 56th Mission Support Squadron was
inactivated.
March 2009
El Mirage officials travel to Washington, District of Columbia to
request stimulus money and complain basing F-35 at Luke would
negatively impact town.
3 April 2009 56th Fighter Wing notified won AF Outstanding Unit Award for
period 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008.
3-13 May 2009 AETC conducted Unit Compliance Inspection and evaluated
56th Fighter Wing an overall “Excellent.”
26 June 2009 USAF announced a force structure change that was to reduce
56th Fighter Wing F-16 fleet by another 28 jets.
44
30 September 2009 63d Fighter Squadron inactivated in-line with BRAC realignment
of 56th Fighter Wing F-16 fleet.
9 October 2009 Base holds a memorial service for Staff Sergeant Shawn Rankin,
a 56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief.
22 October 2009 The 62d Fighter Squadron lost aircraft, Tail No. 84-1328, due to
an engine flameout near Wickenburg, Arizona.
January 2010
AETC published the Combined Wingman Syllabus, which
restructured three courses and syllabi into one syllabus.
1 February 2010 The 301st Fighter Squadron (AFRC) inactivated, and the
69th Fighter Squadron (AFRC) activated and joined the
944th Fighter Wing (AFRC).
4 February 2010 Officials representing the state of Arizona and Maricopa County
signed an agreement to restrict building within the 65 decibel
range of all military airports, including Luke AFB.
22 February 2010 Mr. Gabriel Aguilera ran the Lightning Gate in a stolen car. His
passenger subsequently died after 56th Security Forces Squadron
airmen stopped the car.
22-26 February 2010 Wing leadership attended public meetings on how the
Environmental Impact Statement process would work.
22 March 2010 General Neubauer and Chairman Ned Norris, Jr. of the Tohono
O’odham Nation signed the new 5-year Memorandum of
Understanding covering the Sells Military Operations Area.
24 May 2010 Ms. Wendy Frost, the School Registrar for the 56th Training
Squadron died in a automobile accident.
29 July 2010 The Air Force announced Luke AFB as the preferred alternate
location for F-35 pilot training. The announcement also included
the movement of two F-16 squadrons to Holloman AFB, New
Mexico. The first squadron would move in October 2011.
20 September 2010 Brig Gen Jerry D. Harris, Jr., assumed command of the
56th Fighter Wing from Brig Gen Kurt F. Neubauer.
30 September 2010 The 61st Fighter Squadron inactivated.
15 December 2010 In answer to Lt Col Timothy W. Trimmell's, 756th Aircraft
Maintenance Squadron Commander, challenge to launch all of
their aircraft, the 310th Aircraft Maintenance Unit launched 22 of
26 F-16s.
13 January 2011 62d Fighter Squadron and 62d Aircraft Maintenance Unit
deployed four aircraft to Eglin AFB, Florida, to keep 33d Fighter
Wing pilots current and develop that wing's operational
procedures.
45
15-29 January 2011 310th Fighter Squadron deployed to Tyndall AFB, for Air-to-Air
live fire exercise Combat Archer.
3 February 2011 The 308th Aircraft Maintenance Unit launched all 26 aircraft in
response to Lt Col Trimmell's challenge.
8-27 February 2011 425th Fighter Squadron participated in Combat Archer.
16 February 2011 Lt Col Brian I. Elliott, 56th Fighter Wing Inspector General sent
first e-mail about October 2011 Unit Compliance Inspection.
February 2011
56th Component Maintenance Squadron's Hydrazine plant went
operational for first time in over 2 years.
6-23 April 2011 62d Fighter Squadron took part in Combat Archer during its
deployment to Tyndall AFB.
19 April 2011 Pause lifted for inaccurate engine noise data in the F-35A
Training Draft Environmental Impact Statement.
27 April 2011 Lt Col Frank D. Bryant, Jr., 56th Operations Group, was killed in
action in Afghanistan.
1 May 2011 United States forces killed Osama bin Laden.
5 May 2011 United States Fish and Wildlife Service announced its final ruling
on plan to reestablish Sonoran pronghorn as a nonessential
experimental population.
20 May 2011 Ms. Kathleen I. Ferguson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the
Air Force (Installations) signed the Barry M. Goldwater Range
Environmental Impact Statement Record of Decision which
finalized six of ten proposals.
13 June 2011 Gen Edward A. Rice, Jr., Commander, Air Education and
Training Command, briefed and the Secretary of the Air Force
and Chief of Staff of the Air Force approved delaying the move
of the first F-16 squadron to Holloman AFB until April 2013.
Delays were due to needed time for Environmental Analysis, lack
of funding, and time to design and renovate/construct facilities.
17 June 2011 Col Robert E. Webb took over as the Vice Commander from
Col Jeffrey R. Weed.
17 June 2011 Col Yolanda D. Bledsoe assumed command of 56th Medical
Group.
24 August 2011 The populous of the city of El Mirage, Arizona, elected pro-Luke
Mayor and city council.
18 September 2011 56th Security Forces Squadron personnel found two people dead
in the base Post Office.
17-24 October 2011 AETC Inspector General conducted a Unit Compliance
Inspection of the 56th Fighter Wing and rated the wing Excellent.
46
13-17 February 2012 Col Robert E. Webb, Vice Commander, led wing team in
attending Public Hearings in F-35 Environmental Impact
Statement process.
17 April 2011 Headquarters Air Education and Training Command awarded the
56th Fighter Wing its 21st Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for
the period 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011.
4 May 2012 The base fitness center was renamed the Bryant Fitness Center in
honor of Lt Col Frank Bryant Jr. who was killed in Afghanistan
on 27 April 2011.
13 June 2012 The Air Force released to the public the F-35A Training Final
Environmental Impact Statement.
29 June 2012 Col John T. Hanna assumed command of 56th Operations Group.
9 July 2012 Col Nathan C. Mooney assumed command of 56th Mission
Support Group.
10 July 2012 Col Victor H. Mora assumed command of 56th Maintenance
Group.
12 July 2012 Nineteenth Air Force inactivated. Thereafter, the 56th Fighter
Wing reported directly to Air Education and Training Command.
1 August 2012 The Air Force announced the F-35 Training Record of Decision.
Luke AFB would receive 72 F-35A aircraft making up three
squadrons.
The Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II.
12 September 2012 Brig Gen Michael D. Rothstein assumed command of the
56th Fighter Wing.
47
56th Fighter Wing Lineage
56th Fighter Wing activated as
parent unit of 56th Fighter
Group on 15 August
1947. 1
Redesignated 56th Fighter-
Interceptor Wing on
20 January 1950
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Redesignated 56th Fighter Wing
(Air Defense) and
activated on 28 December
1960. 2
Organized on 1 February 1961.
Discontinued, and inactivated on
1 January 1964. 3
Redesignated 56th Air Commando Wing and activated on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 4
Redesignated 56th Special Operations Wing on 1 August 1968.
Redesignated 56th Tactical Fighter Wing on 30 June 1975. 5
Redesignated 56th Tactical Training Wing on 1 October 1981.
Redesignated 56th Fighter Wing on 1 October 1991. 6
1
GO-77, 20 August 1947
2
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960 and ADC GO #192, 28 December 1960
3
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
4
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
5
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
6
TAC SO GB-100, 27 September 1991
48
56th Fighter Wing Honors * 7
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater *
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater *
Air Combat [1941-1945]
Air Offensive Europe [1942-1944]
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Ardennes-Alsace [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 8
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 9
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 10
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 11
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 12
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 13
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 14
7
* NOTE: The 56th Fighter Group's honors for 15 January 1941-18 October 1945,
1 May 1946-14 August 1947, and 18 August 1955-1 February 1961 are temporarily
bestowed upon the 56th Fighter Wing. The group was active, but not a component of the
56th Wing during these periods. The history of the 56th Group between 15 August 1947
and 6 February 1952 is a permanent part of the wing's history, since the group was a
component of the wing. The bestowal means, that the wing may display as its own, the
group's service and campaign streamers and the two Distinguished Unit Citations.
8
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
9
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
10
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
11
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
12
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
13
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
49
Decorations.
Distinguished Unit Citations *
European Theater of Operations, 20 February-9 March 1944;
Holland, 18 September 1944.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 15
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 16
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 December 1970-30 November 1971 with Combat "V" Device 17
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 18
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 19
24 January 1975-2 May 1975 with Combat "V" Device 20
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 21
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 22
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 23
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 24
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 25
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 26
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 27
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 28
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 29
14
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
15
DAF SO GB-552/1970
16
DAF SO GB-352/1971
17
DAF SO GB-667, 28 September 1972
18
DAF SO GB-553/1973
19
DAF SO GB-600/1975
20
DAF SO GB-623, 10 August 1976
21
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
22
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
23
DAF SO GB-275/1987
24
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
25
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
26
TAC SO GA-069/1991
27
AETC SO GA-18/1996
28
AETC SO GA-12/1998
50
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 30
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 31
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 32
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 33
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 34
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 35
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 36
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 37
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 6 April 1967-28 January 1973
PAST AND PRESENT UNITS ASSIGNED
Currently Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Comptroller Squadron 1 April 1994 38
56th Operations Group 1 April 1994 39
56th Logistics Group
later, 56th Maintenance Group 1 April 1994 40
56th Support Group
later 56th Mission Support Group 1 April 1994 41
56th Medical Group 1 April 1994 42
29
AETC SO GA-9/2000
30
AETC SO GA-55/2004
31
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
32
AETC SO GA-045/2007
33
AETC SO G-054/2008
34
AETC SO G-071/2009
35
AETC SO G-025/2010
36
AETC SO G-086/2011
37
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
38
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
39
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
40
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
41
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
42
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
51
Previously Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Groups
56th Fighter Group
later, 56th Fighter-Interceptor Group 15 August 1947-6 February 1952.
56th Operations Group 1 November 1991-4 January 1994.
56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Air Base Group 1 August 1948-6 February 1952.
56th Air Base Group
later, 56th Combat Support Group 1 February 1961-1 January 1964.
56th Combat Support Group
later, 56th Support Group 8 April 1967-4 January 1994. 43
56th Maintenance and Supply Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Maintenance and Supply Group 1 August 1948-6 February 1952.
56th Logistics Group 1 November 1991-4 January 1994 44
56th Station Medical Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Station Medical Group
later, 56th Medical Group 1 August 1948-6 February 1952.
56th USAF Hospital 1 February 1961-1 January 1964.
56th USAF Dispensary
later, 56th USAF Hospital 45 8 April 1967 46 -30 June 1975.
USAF Regional Hospital, MacDill
later, 56th Medical Group 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. 47
Squadrons.
1st Air Commando Squadron, Fighter
later, 1st Special Operations Squadron
20 December 1967 48 -15 December 1972.
13th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron 15 January 1976-1 July 1982.
18th Special Operations Squadron 25 August 1971-31 December 1972.
21st Helicopter Squadron
later, 21 Special Operations Squadron 27 November 1967-30 June 1975.
43
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
44
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
45
NOTE: Redesignated 56th Tactical Hospital and activated in 1987 as a subordinate of
the USAF Regional Hospital, MacDill. Regional Hospital became 56th Medical Group.
46
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
47
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
48
PACAF SO G-212, 21 November 1967
52
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
22d Special Operations Squadron 25 October 1968-30 September 1970.
23d Tactical Air Support Squadron 15 March 1972-30 June 1975.
56th Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadron
later, 56th Avionics Maintenance Squadron 8 April 1967-15 July 1974. 49
56th Avionics Maintenance Squadron
later, 56th Component Repair Squadron 30 June 1975 50 -1 November 1991.
56th Comptroller Squadron 15 August 1988-4 January 1994. 51
56th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
1 February 1961 52 -1 January 1964;
15 July 1974 53 -30 June 1975;
56th Field Maintenance Squadron 8 April 1967 54 -15 July 1974.
56th Field Maintenance Squadron
later, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron
30 July 1975 55 -1 November 1991.
56th Munitions Maintenance Squadron 1 December 1973-15 July 1974 56
30 June 1975 57 -1 November 1977
56th Organizational Maintenance Squadron 3 July 1972-15 July 1974 58
56th Organizational Maintenance Squadron
later, 56th Aircraft Generation Squadron
30 June 1975 59 -1 November 1991
56th Supply Squadron 1 April 1963-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967 60 -28 February 1975;
30 June 1975 61 -1 November 1991
56th Tactical Training Squadron 1 October 1979-1 November 1991
49
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967; PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
50
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
51
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
52
ADC GO #192, 28 December 1960
53
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
54
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
55
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
56
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
57
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
58
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
59
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
60
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
61
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
53
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
56th Transportation Squadron 1 April 1963-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-bef 30 September 1973;
30 June 1975 62 -1 November 1991
61st Tactical Fighter Squadron
later, 61st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron
30 June 1975 63 -1 November 1991.
62d Fighter Interceptor Squadron 1 February 1961 64 -16 December 1963.
62d Tactical Fighter Squadron
later, 62d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron
30 June 1975 65 -1 November 1991.
63d Tactical Fighter Squadron
later, 63d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron
30 June 1975 66 -1 November 1991.
72d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron 1 July 1982-1 November 1991.
361st Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 1 September 1972-30 June 1974 67
456th Munitions Maintenance Squadron 1 December 1967-1 December 1973
554th Reconnaissance Squadron 15 December 1970-30 September 1972.
602d Fighter Squadron, Commando
later, 602d Special Operations Squadron
8 April 1967 68 -31 December 1970.
606th Air Commando Squadron
later, 606th Special Operations Squadron 8 April 1967 69 -15 June 1971.
609th Air Commando Squadron
later, 609th Special Operations Squadron
15 September 1967 70 -1 December 1969.
4456th Avionics Maintenance Squadron
later, 4456th Component Repair Squadron bef 8 April 1977-Unknown 71
62
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
63
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
64
ADC GO #192, 28 December 1960
65
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
66
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
67
PACAF SO G-159, 31 August 1972
68
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
69
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
70
PACAF SO G-141, ca. 15 September 1967
71
TAC SO GA-31, 8 April 1977
54
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
4456th Field Maintenance Squadron
later, 4456th Equipment Maintenance Squadron
bef 8 April 1977-Unknown 72
4456th Organizational Maintenance Squadron
later, 4456th Aircraft Generation Squadron bef 8 April 1977-Unknown 73
15 January 1983-1 April 1994
4501st Tactical Fighter Replacement Squadron 30 June 1975 74 -15 January 1976
Detachment 1, 56th Air Commando Wing
later, Detachment 1, 56th Special Operations Wing
ca. 15 October 1967-1 February 1974
Detachment 2, 56th Special Operations Wing
15 October 1969-12 December 1969
Detachment 3, 56th Special Operations Wing
15 October 1969-12 December 1969
Operating Location AA, 56th Special Operations Wing
12 December 1969-15 December 1970
88th Air Base Squadron attached 1 February 1952-6 February 1952
97th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron attached 1 December 1950-20 May 1951.
464th Signal Heavy Construction Company (Aviation)
attached ca. 1 February 1948-May 1949
468th Signal Heavy Construction Company (Aviation)
attached ca. October 1948-ca. 23 May 1949
Company B, 838th Engineer Aviation Battalion
attached ca. 20 May 1948-ca. October 1948
4301st Base Service Squadron
later 2476th Base Service Squadron
later 4655th Base Service Squadron
1 August 1948-1 December 1948;
attached 20 September 1950-14 February 1951
4684th Air Base Squadron
later, 88th Air Base Squadron 21 December 1951 75 -5 February 1952
72
TAC SO GA-31, 8 April 1977
73
TAC SO GA-31, 8 April 1977
74
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
75
EADF GO 120, n.d.; 4684 AB Sq GO 1, 21 December 1951; 88 AB Sq GO-1,
1 February 1952
55
Assignments. Fifteenth Air Force, 15 August 1947 76 ; Strategic Air Command, 1 October
1947 77 ; Tenth Air Force, 1 December 1948 (attached to 26th Air Division [Defense],
10 December 1949-19 February 1950; 30th Air Division [Defense], 20 February 1950-);
Eastern Air Defense Force, 1 September 1950-6 February 1952 (remained attached to
30th Air Division [Defense] to 6 February 1952). Air Defense Command, 28 December
1960; Sault Sainte Marie Air Defense Sector, 1 February 1961; Duluth Air Defense
Sector, 1 October 1963-1 January 1964. Pacific Air Forces, 16 March 1967; Thirteenth
Air Force, 8 April 1967 (attached to Seventh Air Force, 8 April 1967-26 February 1974;
United States Support Activities Group/Seventh Air Force, 27 February 1974-30 June
1975); Ninth Air Force, 30 June 1975; Nineteenth Air Force, 1 April 1994-. 78
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 February 1961-1 January 1964. Nakhon
Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967-30 June 1975; MacDill Air
Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975; Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 79
Emblem. Emblem approved 19 April 1967
Four North American F-86A Sabres of the 62d Fighter Squadron,
56th Fighter Wing, flew over Chicago in February 1951. Top to bottom
Tail Numbers were 53-1243, 53-1288, 53-1264, and 53-1262.
76
15 AF GO-77, 20 August 1947
77
SAC GO-93, 12 September 1947
78
AETC MO MO-2, 25 March 1994
79
AETC MO MO-2, 25 March 1994
56
56th Fighter Wing Aircraft
Aircraft. [Ordered By First Use]
Post War and Korean War
Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting Star 1947-1950
North American F-86 Sabre 1950-1952
Republic F-47 Thunderbolt 1951-1952
North American F-51 Mustang 1951-1952
Lockheed F-94 Starfire 1951-1952
Air Defense
McDonnell F-101 Voodoo 1961-1963
Viet Nam War
De Havilland U-6 Beaver 1967
Douglas A-26 Invader 1967-1969
Helio U-10 Super Courier 1967-1969
Douglas A-1 Skyraider 1967-1972
North American RT-28 Trojan 1967-1972
North American T-28 Trojan 1967-1973
Fairchild C-123 Provider 1967-1971
Fairchild UC-123 Provider 1968-1971
Douglas C-47 Skytrain 1969-1972
Beech QU-22 1970-1972
Fairchild AC-119K Stinger 1971-1972
Douglas EC-47 Skytrain 1972-1974
North American OV-10 Bronco 1972-1975
Cessna O-1 Bird Dog 1973
Post Viet Nam War
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1975-1982
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon
1980-Present
McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle 1994-1995
Helicopters
Sikorsky CH-3 Jolly Green Giant 1967-1972
Sikorsky CH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant 1970-1975
Sikorsky H-34 Choctaw 1972
Bell UH-1P Iroquois 1975-1987
57
Wing Commanders
56th Fighter Wing [15 August 1947-20 January 1950]
Col William T. Hudnell 15 August 1947 (Major General)
Lt Col David T. McKnight June 1949
Col James R. Gunn, Jr 23 August 49-20 January 1950
56th Fighter Interceptor Wing [20 January 1950-6 February 1952]
Col James R. Gunn, Jr 20 January 1950
Col George S. Brown 15 August 1951-February 1952
(General-CJCS)
56th Fighter Wing (Air Defense) [1 February 1961 – 1 January 1964
Col James F. Reed 1 February 1961
Col John M. Konosky 16 May 1963 80 –1 January 1964
56th Air Commando Wing [16 March 1967 – 1 August 1968]
None (not manned)
16 March-1967
Col Harry C. Aderholt 8 April 1967 81 (Brigadier General)
Col Roland K. McCoskrie 19 November 1967-1 August 1968 82
56th Special Operations Wing [1 August 1968 – 30 June 1975]
Col Roland K. McCoskrie 1 August 1968
Col Edwin J. White, Jr November 1968 (Brigadier General)
Col Patrick M. Fallon May 1969 (KIA, 4 July 1969)
Col Edwin J. White, Jr June 1969 (Brigadier General)
Col Samuel E. Crosby, Jr October 1969
Col Edward J. Walsh, Jr August 1970
Col Jack A. Robinson July 1971
Col Norbert L. Simon July 1972
Col Robert E. Wayne December 1972
Col William B. Owens July 1973
Col Ralph H. Bowersox September 1973
Col Charles F. Wood September 1973
Col Perry J. Dahl July 1974 [Ace]
Col Harry A. Goodall February 1975-30 June 1975.
(Lieutenant General)
80
56 FW SO G-20, 16 May 1963
81
56 CSG SO G-08, 29 May 1967
82
56 CSG SO G-16, 19 November 1967
58
56th Tactical Fighter Wing [30 June 1975-1 October 1981]
Col Gerald J. Carey July 1975 (Major General)
Col Ernest A. Bedke August 1975 (Major General)
Col Charles J. Cunningham November 1977 (Lieutenant General)
Col Henry D. Canterbury July 1979-1 October 1981.
(Major General)
56th Tactical Training Wing [1 October 1981-1 October 1991]
Col Henry Viccellio, Jr January 1982 (General-AFMC)
Col Ronald R. Fogleman May 1983 (General-CSAF)
Col Jimmy L. Cash August 1984 (Brigadier General)
Col Joseph W. Ralston February 1986 (General-USEUCOM)
Col James L. Jamerson February 1987
(General-DCINC USEUCOM)
Brig Gen Ben Nelson, Jr January 1989-1 October 1991
Col William T. Hudnell,
The First Commander of the 56th Fighter Wing
59
56th Fighter Wing [1 October 1991-.]
Brig Gen Ben Nelson, Jr 1 October 1991
Col (later, Brig Gen) Marvin R. Esmond September 1992 (Lieutenant General)
Col Charles T. Ohlinger III 19 August 1993-4 January 1994 83
Active without Personnel or Equipment 4 January 1994
Brig Gen Stephen B. Plummer 1 April 1994 84 (Lieutenant General)
Brig Gen (later,
Maj Gen) Marvin R. Esmond 14 April 1995 85 (Lieutenant General)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Carrol H. Chandler 2 April 1996 86 (General-VCSAF)
Brig Gen John L. Barry 17 July 1998 87 (Major General)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Stephen T. Sargeant 15 February 2000 88 (Major General)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Philip M. Breedlove 17 June 2002 89 (General-USAFE)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Robin Rand 8 June 2004 90 (Lieutenant General)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Noel T. Jones 13 June 2006 91 (Lieutenant General)
Brig Gen Kurt F. Neubauer 9 July 2008 92 (Major General)
Brig Gen Jerry D. Harris, Jr. 20 September 2010 93
Brig Gen Michael D. Rothstein
12 September 2012 – Present.
Luke 1
83
9 AF SO G-41, 26 July 1993
84
[58 FW SO SO-GA-001, 24 June 1993]
85
19 AF SO G-002, 6 April 1995
86
19 AF SO G-007, 26 March 1996
87
56 MSS SO SO-GR-002, 17 July 1998
88
19 AF SO G-00-002, 14 February 2000
89
19 AF SO 56 MSS G-3, 13 June 2002
90
19 AF SO 56 MSS G-1-2004, 7 May 2004
91
56 FW SO MSG-06-02, 13 June 2006
92
56 MSG SO G-033, 3 July 2008
93
56 MSG SO G-032, 15 September 2010
60
Operations. The wing supported exercises, operations, and training programs of
Strategic Air Command, 1947-1948. It pioneered the first west-to-east jet fighter
transatlantic crossing along the northern air route in July1948 and provided air defense
for a large portion of the northeastern United States, December 1948-February 1952. The
56th provided air defense in the Michigan area, 1961-1963. It performed combat in
Southeast Asia, April 1967-August 1973, and combat support until June 1975, employing
a wide variety of aircraft to meet specialized missions. Those missions included
interdiction, psychological warfare, close air support, search and rescue, forward air
control, training Thai and Laotian air forces, and helicopter escort for clandestine
insertion and extraction of personnel in Laos and North Vietnam. Provided close air
support during the sieges of Khe Sanh, February-April 1968, and Lima Site 85, January-
March 1968. Wing elements participated in the Son Tay Prison raid on 21 November
1970 and continued combat in Vietnam until mid-January 1973, in Laos until
22 February 1973, and in Cambodia until 15 August 1973. The 56th assisted in the
evacuations of Phnom Penh on 11 April 1975 and Saigon, 29-30 April 1975. Provided
forward air control and helicopter insertion/extraction support during the SS Mayaguez
rescue operation on 15 May 1975. Upon return to the United States on 30 June 1975, it
absorbed resources of the 1st Tactical Fighter Wing and operated MacDill AFB and
nearby Avon Park Range, Florida. The wing conducted F-4D/E replacement training for
pilots, weapon systems officers, and maintenance personnel, July 1975-July 1982. It was
equipped with UH-1P helicopters, 1976-1987, to support Avon Range logistics needs,
search and rescue efforts, and humanitarian missions. With conversion to F-16A/B
aircraft in 1980-1982, the 56th became the designated unit for transitioning USAF and
select allied nation pilots into the new fighter, while continuing to augment NORAD's air
defense forces in the southeastern US. The wing provided logistic support to US Central
Command beginning in 1983 and to US Special Operations Command after 1986. It
upgraded to F-16C/D aircraft in 1988-1990, providing support personnel and equipment
to units in Southwest Asia, August1990-March 1991. Beginning in 1994, the wing
primarily provided combat crew training to US and Allied services.
Sikorsky CH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant Tail No. 68-10933, 21st Special Operations
Squadron, 56th Special Operations Wing offloads troops in Southwest Asia. On 31 May
1975, this helicopter crashed during the Mayaguez Incident killing all 23 Airmen aboard.
61
56th Comptroller Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Finance Disbursing Unit,
Fighter, Jet, on 14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Inactivated on 1 November 1949.
Disbanded on 9 August 1950.
Reconstituted, redesignated 56th
Comptroller Squadron, and
activated, on 15 August 1988.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 94
Activated on 1 April 1994. 95
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 96
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 97
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 98
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 99
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 100
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 101
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 102
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 103
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 104
94
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
95
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
96
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
97
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
98
TAC SO GA-069/1991
99
AETC SO GA-18/1996
100
AETC SO GA-12/1998
101
AETC SO GA-9/2000
102
AETC SO GA-55/2004
103
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
104
AETC SO GA-045/2007
62
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 105
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 106
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 107
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 108
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 109
Assignments. Unknown 14 June 1947-31 July 1948. 56th Air Base Group, 1 August
1948-1 November 1949; 56th Tactical Training (later, 56 Fighter) Wing, 15 August
1988--4 January 1994 110 ; 1 April 1994-. 111
Stations. Selfridge Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 August 1948–1 November 1949.
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 15 August 1988–4 January 1994. 112 Luke AFB, AZ,
1 April 1994–. 113
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 22 June 1989. Changed and approved on 28 August 2001.
Blazon. On a disc Azure, beneath a moneybag Argent, banded and charged with a dollar
sign Sable, emitting two lightning flashes chevronwise Or, a demi-coyote statant Proper,
langued Gules, armed and eyed of the second, all within a narrow border Black.
Attached above the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "56TH COMPTROLLER SQ" in Yellow letters.
Attached below the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "" in Yellow letters.
Official Motto. Coyotes
105
AETC SO G-054/2008
106
AETC SO G-071/2009
107
AETC SO G-025/2010
108
AETC SO G-086/2011
109
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
110
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
111
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
112
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
113
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
63
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The coyote signifies the adaptability
of the unit to overcome restraints and adverse conditions to accomplish the mission, just
as the coyote adapts to its surroundings to survive. The moneybag reflects the fiscal
responsibilities or the unit. The lightning flashes stand for the unit’s quick and flawless
execution of the mission.
Commanders.
56th Finance Disbursing Unit, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-1 November 1949]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Comptroller Squadron [15 August 1988-4 January 1994; 1 April 1994-.]
Unknown 15 August 1988
Maj Joseph J. Waters 13 September 1988 114
Maj Clinton T. Johnson 4 October 1989
Maj Richard B. Weathers 14 February 1992-4 January 1994
Maj Eugene Dacus 1 April 1994 115
Maj Etoya B. Hearon 15 August 1994 116
Maj Janet A. Young 25 November 1996 117
Lt Col Robert M. Smith 30 July 1998 118
Lt Col Michael R. Shaw 11 July 2000 119
Maj Roy C. Russell 16 July 2002 120
Lt Col Kent I. Meredith 1 July 2004 121
Lt Col Vernett Smith 20 June 2007 122
Maj (later Lt Col) Quy H. Nguyen 20 July 2009 123
Maj Jessi Rozman 7 July 2011 124
114
56 CSG SO G-95, 13 September 1988
115
58 MSS SO GB-002, 21 January 1993
116
56 MSS SO GB-002, 31 August 1994
117
56 CPTS SO G-2, 22 November 1996
118
SO 001, 30 July 1998
119
56 CPTS SO G-001, 5 August 2000
120
56 MSS SO 56 CPTS G-1, 16 July 2002
121
56 MSS SO 56CPTS G-1 2004, 29 July 2004
122
56 MSG SO MSG-07-06, 5 June 2007
123
56 FSS SO G-041, 16 July 2009
124
56 FSS SO G-021, 7 July 2011
64
56th Operations Group
Col John T. Hanna
Lineage.
Established as 56th Pursuit Group (Interceptor) on 20 November 1940.
Activated on 15 January 1941.
Redesignated 56th Fighter Group on 15 May 1942.
Inactivated on 18 October 1945.
Activated on 1 May 1946.
Redesignated 56th Fighter-Interceptor Group on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Redesignated 56th Fighter Group (Air Defense) on 20 June 1955.
Activated on 18 August 1955.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 1 February 1961. 125
Redesignated 56th Tactical Fighter Group on 31 July 1985.
Redesignated 56th Operations Group on 28 October 1991.
Activated on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 126
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater
125
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960
126
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
65
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater
Air Offensive Europe [1942-1944]
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Ardennes-Alsace [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Air Combat [1941-1945]
Decorations.
Distinguished Unit Citations
European Theater of Operations, 20 February-9 March 1944;
Holland, 18 September 1944.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 127
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 128
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 129
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 130
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 131
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 132
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 133
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 134
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 135
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 136
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 137
127
AETC SO GA-18/1996
128
AETC SO GA-12/1998
129
AETC SO GA-9/2000
130
AETC SO GA-55/2004
131
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
132
AETC SO GA-045/2007
133
AETC SO G-054/2008
134
AETC SO G-071/2009
135
AETC SO G-025/2010
136
AETC SO G-086/2011
137
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
66
56th Fighter Group Aces
Name
Aerial Victories
In 56 FG Lifetime Total
1. Lt Col Francis S. Gabreski 28 34.5 POW 20 July 1944
2. Capt Robert S. Johnson 27 27
3. Col David C. Schilling 22.5 22.5
4. Capt Fred J. Christensen, Jr. 21.5 21.5
5. Maj Walker M. Mahurin 19.5 24.25 Evaded 27 March 1944;
POW 13 May 1952
6. Maj Gerald W. Johnson 15.5 16.5 POW 27 March 1944 (Lieutenant General)
7. Col Hubert A. Zemke 15.25 17.75 POW 30 October 1944
8. Capt Joe H. Powers 14.5 14.5
9. Capt Felix D. Williamson 13 13
10. Maj Leroy A. Schreiber 12 12 KIA 15 April 1944
11. Maj James C. Stewart 11.5 11.83
12. Maj Paul A. Conger 11.5 11.5
13. Capt Michael J. Quirk 11 11 POW 9 September 1944
14. Sq Ldr Michael Gladych 10 10
15. 1st Lt Robert J. Rankin 10 10
16. 1st Lt Stanley B. Morrill 9 9 Killed aircraft accident 29 March 1944
17. Maj George E. Bostwick 8 8
18. Maj Michael J. Jackson 8 8
19. 1st Lt Glen D. Schiltz, Jr. 8 8
20. 2d Lt Billy G. Edens 7 7 POW 9 September 1944
21. 1st Lt Robert J. Keen 7 7
22. 2d Lt Frank W. Klibbe 7 7
23. Capt Robert A. Lamb 7 7
24. Maj Leslie C. Smith 7 7
25. 1st Lt John H. Truluck, Jr. 7 7
26. Capt Mark L. Moseley 6.5 6.5
27. Capt James R. Carter 6 6
28. Capt Walter V. Cook 6 6
29. 1st Lt George F. Hall 6 6
30. Capt Cameron M. Hart 6 6
31. Capt Joseph H. Bennett 5.5 8.5
32. 1st Lt Frank E. McCauley 5.5 5.5
33. 1st Lt Donovan F. Smith 5.5 5.5 (Lieutenant General)
34. Capt John W. Vogt, Jr. 5 8 (General-USAFE)
35. Maj Harold E. Comstock 5 5
36. 1st Lt Joseph L. Egan, Jr. 5 5 KIA 19 July 1944
37. 2d Lt Steven Gerick 5 5
38. 2d Lt Joe W. Icard 5 5 KIA 8 March 1944
39. Flt Off Evan D. McMinn 5 5 KIA 6 June 1944
40. Capt Eugene W. O'Neill, Jr. 5 5
67
Group – 667 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 138
- Group Staff – 39.75 Aerial Victory Credits of the Group's total.
PAST AND PRESENT UNITS ASSIGNED
Currently Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
21st Fighter Squadron 8 August 1996
56th Operations Support Squadron 1 April 1994. 139
56th Training Squadron 1 April 1994. 140
62th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994. 141
308th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994. 142
309th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994. 143
310th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994. 144
425th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994. 145
Previously Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Materiel Squadron Unknown-1 February 1961.
56th Operations Support Squadron 1 November 1991-4 January 1994.
56th Tactical Training Squadron
later, 56th Training Squadron 1 November 1991-20 July 1993.
56th USAF Infirmary
later, 56th USAF Dispensary
later, 56th USAF Hospital 18 August 1955-1 February 1961.
61st Pursuit Squadron
later, 61st Fighter Squadron 15 January 1941-18 October 1945.
61st Fighter-Interceptor Squadron
later, 61st Fighter Squadron 1 May 1946-6 February 1952;
1 November 1991-12 August 1993;
1 April 1994-30 September 2010. 146
138
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
139
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
140
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
141
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994 and AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
142
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
143
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
144
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994 and AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
145
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994 and AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
146
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-10-42, 13 August 2010
68
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
62d Pursuit Squadron
later, 62d Fighter Squadron 15 January 1941-18 October 1945;
62d Fighter-Interceptor Squadron
later, 62d Fighter Squadron 1 May 1946-6 February 1952.
(detached ca. 28 December 1946-ca. 10 April
1947; and ca. 28 July 1950-6 February 1952);
18 August 1955-1 February 1961.
(detached 1 August-30 September 1959);
1 November 1991-14 May 1993.
63d Pursuit Squadron
later, 63d Fighter Squadron 15 January 1941-18 October 1945.
63d Fighter Squadron
later, 63d Fighter-Interceptor Squadron
later, 63d Fighter Squadron 1 May 1946-6 February 1952;
18 August 1955-8 January 1958;
1 November 1991-25 February 1993; 147
1 April 1994-30 September 2009. 148
71st Air Control Squadron 1 May 1992-1 October 1993. 149
72d Fighter Squadron 1 November 1991-19 June 1992.
97th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron Unknown-20 May 1951 150
136th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron attached 21 July 1951-6 February 1952. 151
172d Fighter-Interceptor Squadron attached 1 May 1951 152 --6 February 1952.
311st Fighter Squadron 1 January 1995-1 December 1995. 153
461st Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994-5 August 1994. 154
550th Fighter Squadron 1 April 1994-31 March 1995. 155
11th Crash-Rescue Boat Flight attached 14 July 1951-Unknown 156
147
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991; ACC MO-1, 23 February 1993
148
AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994; ACC MO-1, 23 February 1993
149
ACC MO-10, 26 July 1993
150
EADF GO #64, 8 May 1951
151
EADF GO 81, 16 July 1951 and 56 FIW GO 23, 20 July 1951
152
EADC GO #58, 25 April 1951
153
AETC SO G-12, 27 December 1994; AETC SO G-4, 20 November 1995
154
AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994; AETC SO G-52, 29 July 1994
155
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994 and AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994; AETC SO
G-23, 15 February 1995
156
56 FIW GO 22, 14 July 1951
69
Assignments. Southeast Air District (later, Third Air Force), 15 January 1941 (attached
to 17th Bombardment Wing [Light], 15 January-16 May 1941; III Interceptor Command,
ca. 17 June-1 October 1941); III Interceptor Command, 2 October 1941; I Interceptor
(later, I Fighter) Command, 15 January 1942; New York Air Defense Wing, 11 August
1942; VIII Fighter Command, ca. 12 January 1943; 4 Air Defense (later, 65th Fighter)
Wing, 4 July 1943; 66th Fighter Wing, 28 August-October 1945. Fifteenth Air Force,
1 May 1946 (attached to 65th Combat Fighter Wing, Very Long Range, Provisional,
January-14 August 1947); 56th Fighter (later, 56th Fighter-Interceptor) Wing, 15 August
1947-6 February 1952. 4706th Air Defense Wing, 18 August 1955; 37th Air Division,
8 February 1956; 30th Air Division, 1 April 1959; Sault Sainte Marie Air Defense Sector,
1 April 1960-1 February 1961 (attached to 30th Air Division, 1 April-14 June 1960).
56th Fighter Wing, 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 56th Fighter Wing, 1 April
1994-. 157
Stations. Savannah Air Base, Georgia, 15 January 1941; Charlotte Army Air Base, North
Carolina, 26 May 1941; Charleston, South Carolina, ca. 10 December 1941; Teaneck
Armory, New Jersey, 17 January 1942; Bridgeport, Connecticut, 6 July- December 1942;
Kings Cliffe, England, 12 January 1943; Horsham St Faith, England, 5 April 1943;
Halesworth, England, 9 July 1943; Boxted, England, 19 April 1944; Little Walden,
England, ca. 15 September-11 October 1945; Camp Kilmer, New Jersey, 16-18 October
1945. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 1 March 1946-6 February 1952.
O'Hare International Airport, Illinois, 18 August 1955; K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base,
Michigan, 1 October 1959-1 February 1961. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida,
1 November 1991-4 January 1994. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 158
Aircraft. [Ordered By First Use]
Seversky P-35 1941.
Curtis P-36 Hawk 1941.
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1941-1942.
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1941-1942.
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt 1942, 1943-1945.
Republic P (later, F)-47 Thunderbolt 1946-1947, 1951-1952.
North American P (later, F)-51 Lightning 1946-1947, 1951-1952.
Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting Star 1947-1950.
North American F-86 Sabre 1950-1952, 1955-1959.
Lockheed F-94 Starfire 1951-1952.
McDonnell F-101 Voodoo 1959-1961.
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1991-1993, 1994-.
McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle 1994-1995.
Emblem. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
157
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
158
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
70
Commanders.
56th Pursuit Group (Interceptor) [15 January 1941-15 May1942]
Unknown 15 January-May 1941
Lt Col David D. Graves May 1941-15 May 1942.
56th Fighter Group [15 May 1942-18 October 1945; 1 May 1946-20 January 1950]
Lt Col David D. Graves May 1941
Col John C. Crosswaithe ca. 1 July 1942
Col Hubert A. Zemke 16 September 1942 [Ace]
Col Robert B. Landry 30 October 1943 (Major General)
Lt Col David C. Schilling 11 January 1944 [Ace]
Col Hubert A. Zemke 19 January 1944 [Ace]
Col David C. Schilling 12 August 1944 [Ace]
Lt Col Lucian A. Dade, Jr. 27 January 1945
Lt Col Donald D. Renwick ca. 31 August 1945-ca. October 1945.
Col David C. Schilling 1 May 1946 [Ace]
Lt Col Thomas D. DeJarnette 14 July 1948
Lt Col David C. Schilling August 1948 [Ace]
Lt Col William D. Ritchie by January 1949
Lt Col Irwin H. Dregne by May 1949 [Ace]
Maj Ralph A. Johnson 15 September 1949
Col Francis S. Gabreski
5 October 1949-20 January 1950. [Ace]
56th Fighter-Interceptor Group [20 January 1950-6 February 1952]
Col Francis S. Gabreski 20 January 1950 [Ace]
Lt Col George L. Jones May 1951 [Ace]
Col Ernest J. White, Jr. May 1951 159 (Brigadier General)
Unknown 1 February 1952-6 February 1952.
56th Fighter Group (Air Defense) [18 August 1955-1 February 1961]
Unknown
18 August 1955-unknown
Col John R. Murphy bef April-15 July 1957
(Lieutenant General)
Unknown 16 July 1957-3 November 1957
Col Leo C. Moon 4 November 1957
Lt Col Bacchus B. Byrd, Jr. 15 August 1959
Lt Col Russell C. Jackson ca. September 1959
Col Phillip N. Loring 1 October 1959
Col James W. Holt 19 November 1960
Col James F. Reed ca. 13 January-1 February 1961.
159
1 February 1952 Bio & 575 ABG L&H
71
56th Operations Group [1 November 1991-4 January 1994; 1 April 1994-.]
Col Patrick T. Sakole 1 November 1991
Col John L. Barry 3 August 1992 (Major General)
Col Vincent J. Santillo 2 August 1993
Lt Col Ralph B. Brown December 1993-4 January 1994.
Col Bron A. Burke 1 April 1994 160
Col Stanley Gorenc 13 June 1994 161 (Major General)
Col Gilmary M. Hostage III 30 June 1995 162 (General, ACC)
Col Irvin M. Hardin 9 May 1997 163
Col William C. Louisell 7 May 1999 164
Col Robert P. Steel 26 May 2000 165 (Major General)
Col Steven R.F. Searcy 4 January 2002 166
Col Walter E. Wright III 2 July 2003 167
Col Timothy W. Strawther 13 June 2005 168
Col Robert P. Givens 1 June 2007 169 (Brigadier General)
Col George P. Schaub 30 June 2008 170
Col Douglas R. Miller 25 June 2010 171
Col John T. Hanna 29 June 2012-. 172
160
[58 MSS SO SO-G-67, 11 June 1992]
161
56 OSS SO SO-GC-001, 20 June 1994
162
56 FW SO SO GC-002, 22 June 1995
163
56 OSS SO SO-GC-002, 8 May 1997
164
56 OG SO GC-002, 12 July 1999
165
56 OG SO GS-001, 22 May 2000
166
56 OSS SO GC-002, 17 December 2001
167
56 OG SO 56OG GS-1, 2 June 2003
168
56 FW SO 56OG-G-2005-11, 9 June 2005
169
56 OG SO G-2007-006, 1 June 2007
170
56 OG SO G-028, 16 July 2008
171
56 MSG SO G-017, 24 June 2010
172
56 MSG SO G-017, 26 June 2012
72
Operations. The 56th Pursuit Group trained with available aircraft, participated in
maneuvers, served as an air defense organization, and functioned as an operational
training unit until June 1942. It received P-47s in June and began training for combat,
moved to England, December 1942-January 1943, and was assigned to Eighth Air Force.
As the first US P-47 fighter group to enter combat in the European Theater of Operations
(ETO), the 56th entered combat with a fighter sweep in the area of St Omer, France, on
13 April 1943. During the next two years it destroyed more enemy aircraft in aerial
combat than any other fighter group of Eighth Air Force, flying combat missions over
France, the Low Countries, and Germany to escort bombers that attacked industrial
establishments, V-weapon sites, submarine pens, and other targets on the Continent. It
also strafed and dive-bombed airfields, troops, and supply points; attacked the enemy's
communications; and flew counter-air and interdictory missions during the invasion of
Normandy in June 1944. The 56th supported the Allied forces for the breakthrough at
St. Lo in July, the Battle of the Bulge, December 1944-January 1945, and helped to
defend the Remagen bridgehead against air attacks in March 1945. It was awarded its
first Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC) for aggressiveness in seeking out and destroying
enemy aircraft and for attacking enemy air bases, 20 February-9 March 1944, and a
second DUC for strikes against antiaircraft positions while supporting the airborne attack
on Holland in September 1944. From May 1946, the group trained to maintain
proficiency as a mobile strike force; including bomber escort missions until transferred
from Strategic Air Command to Continental Air Command on 1 December 1948. The
group added an air defense mission in the northeastern US in April 1949, and continued
through February 1952. It replaced the 501st Air Defense Group at O'Hare International
Airport, Chicago, Illinois on 18 August 1955, assuming its air defense mission and
operation of base facilities there. Moving without personnel or equipment to
K. I. Sawyer AFB, Michigan on 1 October 1959, the group absorbed the resources of the
473d Fighter Group. As part of the 56th Fighter Wing, the group conducted F-16
transition training, November 1991-August 1993. It phased down at MacDill AFB, mid-
1992 to inactivation. The 56th Operations Group replaced the 58th Operations Group on
1 April 1994. It conducted F-15E Strike Eagle combat crew training, April 1994-March
1995 and combat crew training for U.S. and Allied services with the F-16.
Lt Col Francis S. Gabreski, 61st Fighter Squadron, talks with his Crew Chief,
S/Sgt Ralph Safford and Assistant Crew Chief, Schacki.
73
56th Operations Support Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as the 56th Airdrome
Squadron on 25 January 1943.
Activated on 1 February 1943.
Redesignated 56th Airdrome Squadron
(Special) on 16 April 1943.
Disbanded on 1 April 1944.
Reconstituted, and redesignated
56th Operations Support Squadron,
on 28 October 1991.
Activated on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 173
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 174
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 175
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 176
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 177
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 178
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 179
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 180
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 181
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 182
173
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
174
AETC SO GA-18/1996
175
AETC SO GA-12/1998
176
AETC SO GA-9/2000
177
AETC SO GA-55/2004
178
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
179
AETC SO GA-045/2007
180
AETC SO G-054/2008
181
AETC SO G-071/2009
74
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 183
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 184
Squadron – No Total Aerial Victory Credits. 185
Squadron Aces: None.
Assignments. Second Air Force, 1 February 1943-1 April 1944. 56th Operations Group,
1 November 1991-20 July 1993. 56th Operations Group, 1 April 1994-. 186
Stations. Grand Island Army Air Base, Nebraska, 1 February 1943; Pocatello Army Air
Base, Idaho, 25 March 1943; Camp Williams, Wisconsin, 3 April 1943; Grand Island
Army Air Base, Nebraska, 2 May 1943-1 April 1944. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida,
1 November 1991-4 January 1994. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 187
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 2 October 2001.
Blazon. On a disc Azure, a starburst of nine points in nombril sinister rotated to dexter
Or, surmounted by an eagle volant issuing from sinister chief Yellow, head feathers
Argent, eyed Sable, legged Gold Brown, armed and langued Gules. Issuing from dexter
base, a wizard in natural colors habited of the sixth and extending his dexter hand toward
the eagle, all within a narrow border Scarlet.
Attached above the disc, a White scroll edged with a narrow Red border and
inscribed “56TH OPERATIONS SPT SQ” in Red letters.
Attached below the disc a White scroll edged with a narrow Red border and
inscribed with "WIZARDS" in Red letters.
Official Motto. Wizards.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The golden radiance joining the
wizard and the eagle is indicative of the myriad missions the unit performs and is a
shining example for others to follow. The eagle’s outstretched wing signifies the unit’s
far-reaching impact. The wizard embodies the wisdom and skill of Air Force leadership.
182
AETC SO G-025/2010
183
AETC SO G-086/2011
184
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
185
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
186
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
187
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
75
Commanders.
56th Airdrome Squadron [1 February 1943-16 April 1943]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Airdrome Squadron (Special) [16 April 1943-1 April 1944]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Operations Support Squadron [1 November 1991-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-.
Unknown
Unknown
Lt Col Richard M. Sayers, Jr. ca. 1 November 1991-August 1993
Lt Col William T. Edwards August 1993-4 January 1994.
Lt Col Thomas K. Mascot 1 April 1994 188
Lt Col Robert M. Parker 4 August 1994 189
Lt Col Bennett M. Bitler 29 August 1996 190
Lt Col Khristian D. Skinner 1 July 1998 191
Lt Col Charles W. Johnson 5 April 2000 192
Lt Col David L. Orr 10 July 2001 193
Lt Col Jeffrey M. Arkell 13 June 2002 194
Lt Col Brian M. Schaaf 15 January 2004 195
Lt Col David J. Julazadeh 13 May 2005 196
Lt Col Matthew B. Willis 25 April 2008 197
Lt Col William Jones 2 March 2009 198
Lt Col John W. Bosone 6 May 2011-. 199
188
[58 OSS SO SO-TC-133, 30 April 1993]
189
56 FW SO SO-G 002, 11 August 1994
190
56 FW SO SO-G 003, ca. 30 August 1996
191
56 FW SO SO-GC 002, 29 June 1998
192
56 OSS SO GC-002, 24 March 2000
193
56 OSS SO GC-006, 2 July 2001
194
56 OSS SO GC-003, 5 June 2002
195
309 FS SO 56 OSS - G - 2004 - 1, 15 January 2004
196
56 OSS SO 56 OG-G-2005-09, 12 May 2005
197
56 OSS SO G-2007-001, 5 March 2007
198
56 MSG SO G-021, 27 February 2009
199
56 MSG SO G-009, 5 May 2011
76
56th Training Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) on 20 November
1940.
Activated on 15 January 1941.
Redesignated 56th Fighter Squadron on
15 May 1942.
Disbanded on 1 May 1944.
Reconstituted, and redesignated
56th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron,
on 14 November 1952.
Activated on 27 November 1952.
Discontinued on 1 March 1960.
Redesignated 56th Tactical Training
Squadron on 25 September 1979. 200
Activated on 1 October 1979. 201
Redesignated 56th Training Squadron on 1 November 1991. 202
Inactivated on 20 July 1993. 203
Activated on 1 April 1994. 204
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater
Campaign Streamers.
World War II Asiatic-Pacific Theater
Air Combat 7 December 1941 - 2 September 1945
Decorations.
200
TAC SO GA-105, 26 September 1979
201
TAC SO GA-105, 26 September 1979
202
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991
203
ACC SO GB-93, 29 June 1993
204
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
77
Distinguished Unit Citations
Alaska, [June]-4 November 1942
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 205
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 206
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 207
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 208
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 209
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 210
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 211
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 212
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 213
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 214
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 215
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 216
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 217
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 218
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 219
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 220
Squadron – 1 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 221
205
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
Squadron Aces: None.
206
DAF SO GB-275/1987
207
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
208
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
209
TAC SO GA-069/1991
210
AETC SO GA-18/1996
211
AETC SO GA-12/1998
212
AETC SO GA-9/2000
213
AETC SO GA-55/2004
214
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
215
AETC SO GA-045/2007
216
AETC SO G-054/2008
217
AETC SO G-071/2009
218
AETC SO G-025/2010
219
AETC SO G-086/2011
220
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
221
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
78
Assignments. 54th Pursuit (later, Fighter) Group, 15 January 1941-1 May 1944.
4708th Defense Wing, 27 November 1952; 575th Air Defense Group, 16 February 1953;
4706th Air Defense Wing, 18 August 1955; 58th Air Division, 1 March 1956; 30th Air
Division, 1 September 1958; Detroit Air Defense Sector, 1 April 1959-1 March 1960.
56th Tactical Fighter (later, Tactical Training; Fighter) Wing, 1 October 1979;
56th Operations Group, 1 November 1991-20 July 1993. 56th Operations Group,
1 April 1994-. 222
Stations. Hamilton Field, California, 15 January 1941; Snohomish County Airport (later,
Paine Field), Washington, 22 June 1941; Harding Field, Louisiana, 31 January 1942
(detachment operated from Santa Ana, California, 28 May-12 June 1942; Nome, Alaska,
20 June-20 October 1942; Anchorage, Alaska, 23 October-21 December 1942); Bartow
Army Air Field, Florida, 11 May 1943-1 May 1944. Selfridge Air Force Base, Michigan,
27 November 1952; Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, 18 August 1955-1 March
1960. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 1 October 1979-20 July 1993. Luke Air Force
Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 223
Aircraft.
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1941
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1941-1943
North American P-51 Lightning 1943-1944
North American F-51 Lightning 1952-1953
North American F-86 Sabre 1953-1958
Lockheed F-104 Starfighter 1958-1960
Emblem. Approved on 9 March 2001.
Blazon. On a disc Gules, in horizontal flight two flight symbols fesswise in bend Sable,
each emitting a contrail to sinister chief Or, issuant from base a mountainous terrain earth
colored Proper surmounting a bezant, all within a diminished bordure Yellow.
Attached above the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "56TH TRAINING SQ" in Yellow letters.
Attached below the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "FIGHTER ACADEMICS" in Yellow letters.
Official Motto. Fighter Academics.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The escarpment refers to the location
of the unit. The rising sun signifies the unit's role in training student pilots to qualified
status in major weapons systems. The deltas show the high level of training provided by
the unit.
222
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
223
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
79
Commanders.
56th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) 15 January 1941-15 May 1942]
2d Lt Patrick R. Arnold 15 January 1941
2d Lt Samuel H. Marret 24 January 1941
1st Lt (later, Capt) Robert B. Richard 30 April 1941
Maj Charles M. McCorkle 24 March 1942-15 May 1942.
56th Fighter Squadron [15 May 1942-1 May 1944]
Maj Charles M. McCorkle 15 May 1942 [Ace]
1st Lt James K. Dowling 12 June 1942
Capt William P. Litton 1 February 1943
Capt (later, Maj) William H. Merriam 16 February 1943
Maj James G. Curl
4 October 1943-Unknown
Unknown 26 January 1944-1 May 1944.
56th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron [27 November 1952-1 March 1960]
Maj Frank O. Lux (acting) 27 November 1952
Lt Col Richard D. Creighton by 1 January 1953 [Ace]
Maj Frank O. Lux
by 30 June 1954-Unknown
Unknown 1 July 1954-30 March 1958
Lt Col Alston L. Brown by 31 March 1958
Maj Sylvester H. Hendricks (acting) 11 December 1958
Lt Col Charles E. Rigney
by 30 June 1959-Unknown
Unknown 1 July 1959-1 May 1960.
56th Tactical Training Squadron [1 October 1979-1 November 1991]
Lt Col David W. Spring 1 October 1979 224
Lt Col Paul H. Burbage III 15 March 1980
Maj John D. Holmquist 19 May 1980
Lt Col Charles E. Cotton 30 June 1980
Lt Col Bruce V. Huneke 2 August 1982
Lt Col James C. Kobriger 24 January 1983 225
Lt Col David H. Brooks 1 April 1983 226
Lt Col Ralph T. Hood 4 October 1984 227
Lt Col Randall H. Wiseman 19 December 1986 228
Lt Col Jon E. Wilson 20 December 1988
Lt Col Rodney L. Bates 7 September 1990-1 November 1991.
224
56 CSG SO G-49, 1 October 1979
225
56 CSG SO G-2, 24 January 1983
226
56 CSG SO G-10, 1 April 1983
227
56 CSG SO G-30, 4 October 1984
228
56 CSG SO G-10, 18 December 1986
80
56th Training Squadron [1 November 1991-20 July 1993; 1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Rodney L. Bates 1 November 1991
Lt Col William Stringer 17 January 1992
Lt Col Stanley Sutterfield
August 1992-Unknown.
Lt Col Ronald H. Heyden 1 April 1994 229
Lt Col David M. Burnett 6 May 1994 230
Lt Col John C. Vignetti 19 June 1995
Lt Col John R. Swarsbrook 15 July 1997 231
Lt Col William Gonzalez, Jr. 9 July 1999 232
Lt Col Randy A. O'Connor 19 December 2000 233
Lt Col Jack D. Patterson, Jr. 18 January 2002 234
Lt Col Robert P. Egan 28 March 2003 235
Lt Col Richard A. Forster 7 January 2005 236
Lt Col Brian D. Neumann 16 June 2006 237
Lt Col Doyle C. Turner 16 May 2008 238
Lt Col Charles J. DeLapp 14 May 2010 239
Lt Col Matthew Liljenstolpe 13 July 2012-. 240
229
[58 MSS SO SO-G-60, 7 May 1992]
230
56 TRS SO SO-GF-001, 18 April 1994
231
56 TRS SO SO-TS-001, ca. 12 July 1997, and
56 TRS SO SO-GF-001, ca. 18 November 1997
232
56 TRS SO SO-GF-005, 30 June 1999
233
56 TRS SO SO-GF-001, 19 December 2000
234
56 TRS SO SO-GF-005, 16 January 2002
235
56 TRS SO 56 TRS G-1, 11 March 2003
236
56 TRS SO 56 OG-G-2005-03, 6 January 2005
237
56 TRS SO 56OG-G2006-11, 9 June 1006
238
56 TRS SO G-020, 15 May 2008
239
56 MSG SO G-005, 14 May 2010
240
56 FW SO G-026, 3 July 2012
81
21st Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 21st Fighter Squadron,
Single Engine, on 5 October 1944.
Activated on 15 October 1944.
Inactivated on 15 October 1946.
Redesignated as 21st Fighter-Day
Squadron on 26 August 1954.
Activated on 11 November 1954.
Redesignated as 21st Tactical Fighter
Squadron on 1 July 1958.
Inactivated on 15 March 1959.
Redesignated 21st Tactical Fighter
Training Squadron on 27 October 1972.
Activated on 1 December 1972.
Redesignated 21st Tactical Fighter Squadron on 9 October 1980.
Redesignated 21st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron on 1 July 1983.
Inactivated on 28 June 1991.
Redesignated 21st Fighter Squadron, and activated, on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 31 December 1993.
Activated on 8 August 1996. 241
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
World War II Asiatic-Pacific Theater:
Air Offensive, Japan [1942-1945]
Eastern Mandates [1943-1944]
Western Pacific [1944-1945]
Ryukyus [1945]
China Offensive [1945]
241
AETC SO G-96-25, 7 August 1996
82
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
2 February 1976-31 March 1977
1 June 1985-31 May 1987
1 March 1990-28 June 1991
1 January 1992-31 December 1993
8 August 1996-30 June 1998 242
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 243
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 244
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 245
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 246
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 247
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 248
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 249
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 250
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 251
Squadron – 3 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 252
1 Squadron Ace:
Name
Aerial Victories
In Sq Lifetime Total
2d Lt I.B. Jack Donaldson 3 5
Assignments. 413d Fighter Group, 15 October 1944-15 October 1946. 413d Fighter-
Day Group, 11 November 1954; 413d Fighter-Day (later, 413d Tactical Fighter) Wing,
8 October 1957-15 March 1959 (attached to Sixteenth Air Force, 14-15 March 1959).
35th Tactical Fighter (later, 35th Tactical Training; 35th Tactical Fighter) Wing,
1 December 1972-28 June 1991. 507th Air Control Wing, 1 November 1991;
363d Operations Group, 1 May 1992-31 December 1993. 56th Operations Group,
8 August 1996-.
242
AETC SO GA-12/1998
243
AETC SO GA-9/2000
244
AETC SO GA-55/2004
245
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
246
AETC SO GA-045/2007
247
AETC SO G-054/2008
248
AETC SO G-071/2009
249
AETC SO G-025/2010
250
AETC SO G-086/2011
251
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
252
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
83
Stations. Seymour-Johnson Field, North Carolina, 15 October 1944; Bluethenthal Field,
North Carolina, 9 November 1944-7 April 1945; Ie Shima Airfields, Ryukyu Islands,
Japan, 19 May 1945; Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, 21 November 1945; Yontan,
Okinawa, Japan, 29 January-15 October 1946. George Air Force Base, California,
11 November 1954-10 March 1959; Moron Air Base, Spain, 11 March 1959-15 March
1959. George Air Force Base, California, 1 December 1972-28 June 1991. Shaw Air
Force Base, South Carolina, 1 November 1991-31 December 1993. Luke Air Force
Base, Arizona, 8 August 1996-.
Aircraft.
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt 1944-1946
North American F-86 Sabre 1954-1956
North American F-100 Super Sabre 1956-1959
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1972-1981
Fairchild Republic OA-10 Thunderbolt II 1991-1993
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1981-1991, 1996-.
Emblem. Approved on 18 March 2008
Blazon. On a disc Sable, two playing cards totaling the number twenty one, a king of
spades tilted to dexter and a ace of hearts tilted to sinister all Proper, emitting from
behind the king a contrail arcing below to base and terminating in a delta, point to sinister
Gules.
Attached above the disc a Black scroll edged with a narrow Red border and inscribed
"GAMBLERS" in Red letters.
Attached below the disc a Black scroll edged with a narrow Red border and
inscribed "21 ST FIGHTER SQUADRON" in Red letters.
Official Motto. Gamblers
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The emblem purposed for the unit is
deeply rooted in the traditions and the history of the Taiwanese people. The Unit has
been operating in defense of the people since 1934. The cards totaling 21 signify
perfection and the pursuit of victory in any endeavor. Specifically, the king of spades
representing the Taiwanese people, the ace of hearts, the heart of a nation, and the arrow
absolute integrity.
84
Commanders.
21st Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [15 October 1944-15 October 1946]
Unknown 15 October 1944-11 October 1945
Lt Col William B. Whisonant 12 October 1945
Capt Francis J. Vetort 13 October 1945
1 Lt Robert W. Faas 1 April 1946-Unknown
Capt Samuel H. Henton Unknown-26 September 1946
Capt Louis A. Guin
26 September 1946-Unknown.
21st Fighter-Day Squadron [11 November 1954-1 July 1958]
Maj Stephen L. Bettinger 11 November 1954-Unknown. [Ace]
21st Tactical Fighter Squadron [1 July 1958-15 March 1959]
Unknown 1 July 1958-15 March 1959.
21st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [1 December 1972-9 October 1980]
Col Roger L. Sprague 1 December 1972
Lt Col William E. Whitten ca. 1 March 1973
Lt Col D. L. Wagner 17 April 1975
Lt Col Paul Marsh 2 May 1977
Lt Col Wallace L. Mekkers 5 July 1979-Unknown.
21st Tactical Fighter Squadron [9 October 1980-1 July 1983]
Unknown ca. 1980-1 July 1983.
21st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [1 July 1983-28 June 1991]
Unknown 1 July 1983
Lt Col Dick E. Willis 12 November 1987
Lt Col Mark D. Gilson 26 July 1989
Lt Col David M. McLaughlin 9 November 1990-28 June 1991.
21st Fighter Squadron [1 November 1991-31 December 1993;
8 August 1996-.]
Lt Col Bobby G. Smith 1 November 1991
Lt Col John A. Neubauer 1 October-31 December 1993.
Lt Col James R. Mitchell 8 August 1996
Lt Col Dean A. Profitt III 2 April 1998 253
Lt Col Walter E. Grace III 18 June 1999 254
Lt Col Mark J. Warner 19 December 2000 255
Lt Col Walter G. Farrar III 18 July 2002 256
253
21 FS SO SO-GZ-003, 30 March 1998
254
21 FS SO SO-GZ-004, ca. 15 June 1999
255
21 FS SO SO-GZ-003, 18 December 2000
85
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col Christopher Roeder 4 December 2003 257
Lt Col Thomas G. Abbot 8 June 2005 258
Lt Col Dennis J. Malfer 28 April 2006 259
Lt Col James G. Sturgeon 20 September 2007 260
Lt Col William D. Bowman 15 June 2009 261
Lt Col Sean C. Routier 24 June 2011-. 262
In 1998, Lt Col James R. "Rusty" Mitchell, Commander, 21st Fighter Squadron, led a
2-ship in his Flagship, Tail No. 93-0711, followed by his Director of Operations,
Maj Paul A. "Shadow" Mrazik in Tail No. 93-0721
256
21 FS SO SO-GZ-001, 18 July 2002
257
21 FS SO SO-GZ-001, 5 December 2003
258
21 FS SO 56OG-G-2005-10, 13 May 2005
259
21 FS SO 56OG-G-2006-06, 20 April 2006
260
21 FS SO G-2007-009, 23 August 2007
261
56 MSG SO G-033, 10 June 2009
262
56 MSG SO G-015, 22 June 2011
86
62d Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 62d Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) on 20 November
1940.
Activated on 15 January 1941.
Redesignated 62d Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) (Twin Engine) on
31 January 1942.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron (Twin
Engine) on 15 May 1942.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron on
1 June 1942.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron,
Single Engine, on 28 February
1944.
Inactivated on 18 October 1945.
Activated on 1 May 1946.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron, Jet Propelled, on 24 April 1947.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron, Jet, on 14 June 1948.
Redesignated 62d Fighter-Interceptor Squadron on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 30 April 1971.
Redesignated 62d Fighter-Interceptor Training Squadron on 15 August 1974.
Activated on 1 September 1974.
Redesignated 62d Tactical Fighter Squadron on 30 June 1975.
Redesignated 62d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron on 1 January 1981.
Redesignated 62d Fighter Squadron on 1 November 1991. 263
Inactivated on 14 May 1993. 264
Activated on 18 March 1994. 265
263
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991
264
ACC SO GB-73, 11 May 1993
265
AETC SO G-29, 14 March 1994
87
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater
Air Combat [1941-1945]
Air Offensive Europe [1942-1944]
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Ardennes-Alsace [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Decorations.
Distinguished Unit Citations
European Theater of Operations, 20 February-9 March 1944;
Holland, 18 September 1944.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 June 1967-31 December 1968
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 266
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 267
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 268
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 269
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 270
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 271
18 March 1994-31 March 1994
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 272
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 273
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 274
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 275
266
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
267
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
268
DAF SO GB-275/1987
269
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
270
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
271
TAC SO GA-069/1991
272
AETC SO GA-18/1996
273
AETC SO GA-12/1998
274
AETC SO GA-9/2000
275
AETC SO GA-55/2004
88
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 276
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 277
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 278
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 279
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 280
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 281
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 282
Squadron – 220 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 283
12 Squadron Aces:
Name
Aerial Victories
In Sq Lifetime Total
Maj George E. Bostwick 5 8
Capt Fred J. Christensen, Jr. 21.5 21.5
Capt Walter V. Cook 6 6
2d Lt Billy G. Edens 7 7 POW 9 September 1944
2d Lt Joe W. Icard 5 5 KIA 8 March 1944
Maj Michael J. Jackson 8 8
1st Lt Stanley B. Morrill 9 9 Killed Acft accident 29 March 1944
Capt Mark L. Moseley 6.5 6.5
Capt Eugene W. O'Neill, Jr. 5 5
Capt Michael J. Quirk 11 11 POW 9 September 1944
Maj Leroy A. Schreiber 10 12 KIA 15 April 1944
Capt Felix D. Williamson 13 13
Capt Fred J. Christensen, Jr.
276
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
277
AETC SO GA-045/2007
278
AETC SO G-054/2008
279
AETC SO G-071/2009
280
AETC SO G-025/2010
281
AETC SO G-086/2011
282
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
283
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
89
Assignments. 56th Pursuit (later, 56th Fighter) Group, 15 January 1941-18 October
1945. 56th Fighter (later, 56th Fighter-Interceptor) Group, 1 May 1946 (attached to
Alaskan Provisional Wing, ca. 28 December 1946-ca. 10 April 1947; 30 Air Division, ca.
28 July 1950-30 April 1951; 142d Fighter-Interceptor Group, 1 May 1951-5 February
1952); 4706th Defense Wing, 6 February 1952; 501 Air Defense Group, 16 February
1953; 56th Fighter Group, 18 August 1955 (attached to 473d Fighter Group,
1 August-30 September 1959); 56th Fighter Wing, 1 February 1961 284 ; Duluth Air
Defense Sector, 16 December 1963; 29 Air Division, 1 April 1966; 34th Air Division,
15 September 1969; 29th Air Division, 14 November 1969; 23d Air Division,
19 November 1969-30 April 1971. Air Defense Weapons Center, 1 September 1974;
56th Tactical Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training; 56th Fighter) Wing, 30 June 1975;
56th Operations Group, 1 November 1991-14 May 1993. 58th Operations Group,
18 March 1994 285 ; 56th Operations Group, 1 April 1994-. 286
Stations. Savannah Air Base, Georgia, 15 January 1941; Charlotte Army Air Base, North
Carolina, 26 May 1941 (deployed at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, October-November
1941); Wilmington Municipal Airport, North Carolina, 10 December 1941; Bendix
Airport, New Jersey, 17 January 1942; Newark Municipal Airport, New Jersey, 31 May
1942; Bradley Field, Connecticut, 23 July-27 December 1942; Kings Cliffe, England,
12 January 1943; Horsham St Faith, England, 5 April 1943; Halesworth, England, 9 July
1943; Boxted, England, 19 April 1944; Debden, England, 15 September-11 October
1945; Camp Kilmer, New Jersey, 16-18 October 1945. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force
Base), Michigan, 1 May 1946 (deployed at Ladd Field, Alaska, 28 December
1946-10 April 1947; Oscoda Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 April-6 June 1949); O'Hare
Field-Chicago International Airport (later, O'Hare International Airport), Illinois,
4 August 1950 (deployed at K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 August
1959-30 September 1959); K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 October
1959-30 April 1971. Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, 1 September 1974; MacDill Air
Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975 287 -14 May 1993. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona,
18 March 1994-. 288
284
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960
285
AETC SO G-29, 14 March 1994
286
AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
287
ADC MO 3, 13 June 1975
288
AETC SO G-29, 14 March 1994
90
Aircraft.
SeverskyP-35 1941
Curtis P-36 Hawk 1941
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1941-1942
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1941-1942
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt 1942-1945, and 1946
North American P-51 Lightning 1946-1947
Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting Star 1947-1950
North American F-86 Sabre 1950-1959
McDonnell F-101 Voodoo 1959-1971
Convair F-106 Delta Dart 1974-1975
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1974-1980
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1980-1993; 1994-.
Emblem. Originally approved on 18 June 1943; newest rendition approved on 18 July
1995.
Blazon. Argent, a caricature bulldog affronte in a boxing stance Or, jowls Pink, wearing
a jersey Azure charged with two mullets of the first, shorts Gules, shoes of the fourth,
each charged on the toe with a mullet White, a scan barry Gules and White, an aviator's
helmet Brown with goggles Celeste, and boxing gloves Red, each charged with a lighting
flash White, all above a cast shadow Light Blue; all within a diminished bordure Blue.
Attached below the disc a White scroll edged with a narrow Blue border and inscribed
"62d FIGHTER SQ" in Blue letters.
Official Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The bulldog represents the tenacity and aggressiveness
of a fighter squadron, qualities further emphasized by the stance of the subject. The
gloved fists symbolize a clean fighter, while the lightning suggests the squadron's striking
power. His expression shows that he is obviously a "tough customer", hard to handle in a
fight, not easily discouraged, and unafraid.
91
Commanders.
62d Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) [15 January 1941-31 January 1942]
Unknown 15 January 1941-20 January 1941
Capt Dixon M. Allison 21 January 1941
1 Lt Norton H. Van Sicklen III 13 February 1941
2 Lt James L. Orr 10 May 1941
2 Lt Albert O. Waldon 26 May 1941
2 Lt John M. Davis 28 May 1941
1 Lt Raymond W. Worsham, Jr. 2 June 1941
Capt David D. Terry, Jr. 6 June 1941-31 January 1942
62d Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) (Twin Engine) [31 January 1942-15 May 1942]
Capt David D. Terry, Jr. 31 January 1942-15 May 1942
62d Fighter Squadron (Twin Engine) [15 May 1942-1 June 1942]
Capt David D. Terry, Jr. 15 May 1942-1 June 1942
62d Fighter Squadron [1 June 1942-28 February 1944]
Capt David D. Terry, Jr. 1 June 1942
Maj David C. Schilling ca. July 1942 [Ace]
Maj Horace C. Craig 21 August 1943
Maj Leroy A. Schreiber 9 February 1944-28 February 1944
[Ace]
62d Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [28 February 1944-18 October 1945]
Maj Leroy A. Schreiber 28 February 1944 [Ace]
Lt Col Lucian A. Dade Jr. 16 April 1944
Capt Michael J. Quirk 13 August 1944 [Ace]
Maj Leslie C. Smith 11 September 1944 [Ace]
Maj Felix D. Williamson 26 January 1945-ca. 18 October 1945
[Ace]
62d Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [1 May 1946-24 April 1947]
Unknown 1 May 1946-4 May 1946
Maj Paul A. Conger 5 May 1946 [Ace]
Lt Col Gerald W. Johnson 23 July 1946-24 April 1947
[Ace](Lieutenant General)
62d Fighter Squadron, Jet Propelled [24 April 1947-14 June 1948]
Lt Col Gerald W. Johnson 24 April 1947
[Ace](Lieutenant General)
Lt Col William D. Dunham
ca. 3 May 1947- Unknown
[Ace](Brigadier General)
Unknown (possibly Maj John C. McClure) August 1947-14 June 1948
92
62d Fighter Squadron, Jet [14 June 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown (possibly Maj John C. McClure) 14 June 1948
Maj Edward S. Popek by December 1948 [Ace]
Capt Franklyn E. Moffitt ca. June 1949
Maj Ralph A. Johnson July 1949
Maj Henry H. Kirby, Jr. 15 September 1949
Maj George L. Abel ca. 10 October 1949
Maj Henry H. Kirby, Jr. ca. December 1949
Maj Edwin L. Heller January 1950-20 January 1950 [Ace]
62d Fighter-Interceptor Squadron [20 January 1950-30 April 1971]
Maj Edwin L. Heller January 1950 [Ace]
Lt Col Charles E. Parsons, Jr. 3 April 1950
Maj Harold M. Wilson ca. September 1951
Maj Carl A. Rymer 1 October 1951
Lt Col Frank Q. O'Conner by 17 March 1952
Maj Richard C. Garrett
24 December 1952-Unknown
Maj Edward J. Mason 8 September 1953
Maj Charles W. Jackson 28 October 1953
Lt Col Lloyd H. Stinson 24 October 1955
Maj Kenneth E. Daniels ca. 8 November 1957
Maj Roy W. King 21 September 1958
Lt Col Edward P. McNeff 1 August 1959 (Major General)
Maj Joe H. Joiner ca. 1 April 1961
Capt Cecil P. Roberts by 30 April 1961
Lt Col Samuel D. Berman June 1961
Col Amos W. Waage 1 May 1964
Lt Col Austin O. Davis 30 November 1965
Lt Col Arby J. Thompson 29 August 1967
Col Carl D. Peterson 5 May 1969 (Major General)
Lt Col Cecil G. Foster by June 1970-30 April 1971
62d Fighter-Interceptor Training Squadron [1 September 1974-30 June 1975]
Col William J. Breckner, Jr. 1 September 1974 (Major General)
Maj Charles E. Masuga 29 June 1975-30 June 1975
62d Tactical Fighter Squadron [30 June 1975-1 January 1981]
Lt Col Henry M. Yochum III 30 June 1975
Lt Col Lawrence P. Farrell, Jr. 7 March 1977 (Lieutenant General)
Lt Col Michael P. Blaisdell 28 June 1978
Lt Col Robert W. Undorf 4 May 1979-1 January 1981
93
62d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [1 January 1981-1 November 1991]
Lt Col Robert W. Undorf 1 January 1981
Lt Col James V. Williford 14 August 1981
Lt Col George A. Suro 25 March 1983
Lt Col Royce G. W. Woodell 1 March 1985
Lt Col William R. Stroud February 1987
Lt Col Billy S. Clack 10 February 1989
Lt Col Robert F. Umbarger 10 February 1991--1 November 1991
62d Fighter Squadron [1 November 1991-14 May 1993;
18 March 1994-.]
Lt Col Robert F. Umbarger 10 February 1991
Lt Col Stephen E. Bozarth 10 July 1992-14 May 1993
Lt Col Michael E. Roznovsky 18 March 1994 289
Lt Col William A. Hewitt 9 November 1995 290
Lt Col Arthur W. May 4 June 1996 291
Lt Col Robin M. Kesterson 19 June 1998 292
Lt Col Michael E. B. France 24 June 2000 293
Lt Col Marcel P. Schmidt 17 August 2001 294
Lt Col Mark M. Lankford 7 July 2003 295
Lt Col Gerald F. Lanagan 21 January 2005 296
Lt Col Pablo A. Sanchez 23 May 2007 297
Lt Col Bob G. Battema 17 November 2008 298
Lt Col Brian A. Jackson 30 July 2010 299
Lt Col Shamsher Mann 10 August 2012 300 -.
289
58 MSS SO SO-GAI-02, 14 March 1994
290
56 MSS SO SO-GAI-07, 8 January 1996
291
56 MSS SO SO-GAI-08, 22 May 1996
292
56 MSS SO SO-GAI-02, 1 June 1998
293
56 MSS SO SO-GAI-01, 6 January 2000
294
56 MSS SO SO-GAI-02, ca. 9 August 2011
295
62 FS SO 62 FS-GAI-2003-02, 1 July 2003
296
62 FS SO 56 OG-G-2005-07, 10 March 2005
297
62 FS SO G-2007-004, ca. 23 May 2007
298
56 MSG SO G-12, 18 November 2008
299
56 MSG SO G-029, 6 August 2010
300
56 FW SO G-030, 16 July 2012
94
308th Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 308th Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) on 21 January 1942.
Activated on 30 January 1942.
Redesignated 308th Fighter Squadron on
25 May 1942.
Redesignated 308th Fighter Squadron,
Single Engine, on 20 August 1943.
Inactivated on 7 November 1945.
Activated on 20 August 1946.
Redesignated 308th Fighter Squadron, Jet,
on 15 June 1948.
Redesignated 308th Fighter-Bomber Squadron
on 20 January 1950.
Redesignated 308th Fighter-Escort Squadron on
16 July 1950.
Redesignated 308th Strategic Fighter Squadron on 20 January 1953.
Redesignated 308th Fighter-Bomber Squadron on 1 April 1957.
Redesignated 308th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 1 July 1958.
Redesignated 308th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron on 9 October 1980.
Redesignated 308th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 1 October 1986.
Redesignated 308th Fighter Squadron on 1 November 1991. 301
Honors
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater:
Air Offensive, Europe [1942–1944]
Algeria-French Morocco with Arrowhead [1942]
Tunisia [1942-1943]
Sicily [1942-1943]
Naples-Foggia [1943-1944]
Anzio [1944]
Rome-Arno [1944]
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Southern France [1944]
North Apennines [1944-1945]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Po Valley [1945]
Air Combat [1941–1945]
301
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991
95
Vietnam:
Vietnam Defensive [1965-1966]
Vietnam Air [1966]
Vietnam Air Offensive [1966-1967]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968]
Vietnam Air/Ground [1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter-Spring 1970 [1969-1970]
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970]
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973]
Decorations.
Distinguished Unit Citations
Rumania, 21 April 1944
Poland, 25 July 1944
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia, 8 June 1966–16 April 1967
Southeast Asia, 1 May–31 December 1968
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
17 December 1966–30 April 1968 with Combat “V” Device
18 December 1972–27 January 1973 with Combat “V” Device
4–16 July 1952
1 March–30 November 1962
23 February 1991–22 February 1993
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 302
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 303
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 304
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 305
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 306
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 307
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 308
302
AETC SO GA-18/1996
303
AETC SO GA-12/1998
304
AETC SO GA-9/2000
305
AETC SO GA-55/2004
306
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
307
AETC SO GA-045/2007
96
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 309
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 310
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 311
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 312
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm,
16 December 1966–15 October 1970
Squadron – 184.5 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 313
12 Squadron Aces:
Name
Aerial Victories
In Sq Lifetime Total
Capt Royal N. Baker 3 16.5 (Lieutenant General)
Col William A. Daniel 314 2 5
315
Capt William J. Dillard 2 6
Major Harry W. Dorris 5.25 5.25
Capt Robert J. Goebel 11 11
Capt Walter J. Goehausen, Jr. 10 10
Maj Frank A. Hill 2 7
1st Lt Richard F. Hurd 6 6
Capt Leland P. Molland 11 11 (KIA, May 1951, Korea)
Capt Jack R. Smith 5 5
1st Lt Frederick O. Trafton, Jr. 5 5 (POW, 23 April 1944)
Capt John J. Voll 21 21
Assignments. 31st Pursuit (later, 31st Fighter) Group, 30 January 1942–7 November
1945. 31st Fighter (later, 31st Fighter-Bomber; 31 Fighter-Escort) Group, 20 August
1946 (attached to 31st Fighter-Escort Wing, 27 July 1951–15 June 1952); 31st Fighter-
Escort (later, 31st Strategic Fighter; 31st Fighter-Bomber; 31st Tactical Fighter) Wing,
16 June 1952 (attached to Alaskan Air Command, 5 December 1956–7 January 1957;
Unknown, 15-21 August 1958, 22 August 1958–19 January 1959, 11 July–ca. December
1959, 7 Mar–ca. 19 July 1961; 18th Tactical Fighter Wing, 13 March–30 April 1963;
308
AETC SO G-054/2008
309
AETC SO G-071/2009
310
AETC SO G-025/2010
311
AETC SO G-086/2011
312
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
313
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
314
NOTE: Became an ace while in the squadron.
315
NOTE: Became an ace while in the squadron.
97
Unknown, 1 May–3 July 1963; 7231st Combat Support Group, 9 Feb–5 May 1964 and
9 March–8 July 1965); 3d Tactical Fighter Wing, 2 December 1965 (attached to
31st Tactical Fighter Wing, 15 November–25 December 1966); 31st Tactical Fighter
Wing, 25 December 1966; 4403d Fighter Wing, 5 October 1970; 31st Tactical Fighter
Wing, 30 October 1970 (attached to 432d Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, 28 April
1972-29 July 1972; 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, 11 December 1972–11 June 1973);
31st Operations Group, 1 November 1991 (attached to 347th Operations Group, ca.
11 September–19 November 1992); 347th Operations Group, 20 November 1992;
56th Operations Group, 1 April 1994–. 316
Stations. Baer Field, Indiana, 30 January 1942; New Orleans AB, Louisiana,
6 February-19 May 1942; Atcham, England, ca. 10 June 1942; Kenley, England,
1 August 1942; Westhampnett, England, 25 August–23 October 1942; Tafaraoui,
Algeria, 8 November 1942 (operated from Casablanca, French Morocco, 10–31 January
1943); Thelepte, Tunisia, 6 February 1943; Tebessa, Algeria, 17 February 1943;
Canrobert, Algeria, 21 February 1943; Kalaa Djerda, Tunisia, 25 February 1943;
Thelepte, Tunisia, 11 March 1943; Djilma, Tunisia, 7 April 1943; Le Sers, Tunisia,
12 April 1943; Korba, Tunisia, 20 May 1943; Gozo, ca. 30 June 1943; Ponte Olivo,
Sicily, 14 July 1943; Agrigento, Sicily, 19 July 1943; Termini, Sicily, ca. 2 August 1943;
Milazzo, Sicily, 2 September 1943; Montecorvino, Italy, 20 September 1943;
Pomigliano, Italy, 14 October 1943; Castel Volturno, Italy, 14 January 1944; San Severo,
Italy, 2 April 1944; Mondolfo, Italy, 3 March 1945; Triolo, Italy, 14 July–5 August 1945;
Drew Field, Florida, August–7 November 1945. Giebelstadt, Germany, 20 August 1946;
Kitzingen, Germany, ca. 30 September 1946–25 June 1947; Langley Field, Virginia,
25 June 1947; Turner Field (later, Air Force Base), Georgia, 4 September 1947 (deployed
at Manston Royal Air Force Station, England, 26 December 1950–25 July 1951; Misawa
Air Base, Japan, 20 July–16 October 1952; Chitose Air Base, Japan, 7 November
1953-9 February 1954; Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, 5 December 1956–7 January
1957; Hahn Air Base, Germany, 15 August–21 August 1958; Aviano Air Base, Italy,
22 August 1958-19 January 1959); George Air Force Base, California, 15 March 1959
(deployed at Moron Air Base, Spain, 11 July–ca. December 1959; Aviano Air Base,
Italy, 7 March-ca. 19 July 1961); Homestead, Air Force Base, Florida, 1 October
1962-ca. 5 December 1965 (deployed at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, 13 March–30 April
1963; Itazuke Air Base, Japan, 1 May–3 July 1963; Cigli Air Base, Turkey,
9 February-5 May 1964 and 9 March–8 July 1965); Bien Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam,
ca. 7 December 1965; Tuy Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam, 15 November
1966-30 September 1970; England Air Force Base, Louisiana, 5 October 1970;
Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, 30 October 1970 (deployed at Udorn Royal Thai Air
Force Base, Thailand, 28 April 1972-29 July 1972; Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base,
Thailand, 11 December 1972-11 June 1973; operated from Moody Air Force Base,
Georgia, ca. 11–30 September 1992); Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, 1 October 1992;
Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994–. 317
316
AETC MO MO-2, 25 March 1994
317
AETC MO-2, 25 March 1994
98
Aircraft.
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1942
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1942
Supermarine Spitfire 1942–1943
North American P-51 Lightning 1943–1945
Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting Star 1946–1947
North American P-51 Lightning 1947–1949
Republic F-84 Thunderjet 1948–1957
North American F-100 Super Sabre 1957–1970
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1970–1986
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1986–.
Emblem. Originally approved on 10 January 1962; newest rendition approved on
18 July 1995.
Blazon. Checky Argent and Vert, on an arrowhead point to base throughout Silver Gray
fimbriated Sable, a dexter cubit arm vambraced fesswise issuant from sinister Argent
grasping a sword point to base of the like, hilt of the second and piercing a cloud issuing
from base White; all within a diminished bordure Or.
Attached above the disc a White scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "308th FIGHTER SQ" in Yellow letters.
Attached below the disc a White scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "EMERALD KNIGHTS" in Yellow letters.
Official Motto. Emerald Knights
Significance. Yellow is an Air Force color and refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The checky field suggests the field of battle. The
arrowhead denotes the aircraft of the squadron in association with the field of battle. The
arm in armor, grasping a sword, symbolizes the unit's ability to defend the peace. The
sword piercing the cloud stands for the sky, the unit's theater of operation.
99
Commanders.
308th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) [30 January 1942 - 25 May 1942]
Maj Fred M. Dean 30 January 1942-25 May 1942
(Lieutenant General)
308th Fighter Squadron [25 May 1942-20 August 1943]
Maj Fred M. Dean 25 May 1942 (Lieutenant General)
Maj Delwin B. Avery 1 September 1942
Capt Frank A. Hill 10 February 1943
Maj Delwin B. Avery 4 March 1943
Capt Thomas B. Fleming May 1943
Maj John H. Paulk 8 July 1943-20 August 1943
308th Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [20 August 1943-7 November 1945;
20 August 1946-15 June 1948]
Maj John H. Paulk 20 August 1943
Maj Walter J. Overend 14 October 1943
Lt Col James G. Thorsen 18 February 1944
Maj Harry W. Dorris 24 June 1944 [Ace]
Maj Leland P. Molland 28 July 1944 [Ace]
Maj Frank A. Wagner 4 December 1944
Lt Col James G. Thorsen
2 February 1945-Unknown
Unknown 20 August 1946
Lt Col Shannon Christian October 1947-15 June 1948
308th Fighter Squadron, Jet [15 June 1948-20 January 1950]
Lt Col Shannon Christian 15 June 1948
Maj Ray M. Hilliard July 1948-20 January 1950
308th Fighter-Bomber Squadron [20 January 1950-16 July 1950]
Maj Ray M. Hilliard 20 January 1950-16 July 1950
308th Fighter-Escort Squadron [16 July 1950-20 January 1953]
Maj Ray M. Hilliard 16 July 1950
Lt Col Jerrold M. Vivian 15 August 1952-20 January 1953
308th Strategic Fighter Squadron [20 January 1953-1 April 1957]
Lt Col Jerrold M. Vivian 20 January 1953
Lt Col Frank W. Klibbe September 1953 [Ace]
Maj John W. Santry 17 January 1955
Maj John E. Pitts, Jr. July 1956-1 April 1957
100
308th Fighter-Bomber Squadron [1 April 1957-1 July 1958]
Maj John E. Pitts, Jr. 1 April 1957 (Brigadier General)
Maj Donald N. Standfield 24 September 1957-1 July 1958
308th Tactical Fighter Squadron [1 July 1958-9 October 1980]
Maj Donald N. Standfield 1 July 1958
Maj Robinson Risner 15 March 1959
[Ace](Brigadier General)
Maj John B. Butler 15 July 1960
Lt Col Virgil K. Meroney 31 August 1960 [Ace]
Maj William Peters 17 December 1961
Maj Louie E. Lovitt 28 April 1962
Lt Col Alfred N. King 14 August 1962
Lt Col Durward B. Russell, Jr. 22 September 1964
Lt Col Alan E. Wockenfuss ca. June 1966
Lt Col Hubert N. Skidmore ca. 1967
Lt Col Jack M. Smith ca. 19 March 1968
Lt Col Thomas G. Ferrara 1968
Lt Col James Rodeen 30 June 1969
Lt Col Willliam J. Hosmer 30 August 1969
Lt Col Henry Buttelman 28 March 1970 [Ace]
Lt Col David L. Robb 6 July 1970-ca. 15 October 1970
Unknown ca. 15 October 1970-30 October 1970
Lt Col George L. Schulstad 30 October 1970 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col Benjamin F. Ingram, Jr. 19 February 1971
Lt Col Robert F. Johnston II 3 October 1971
Lt Col Thomas E. Colvin 1 September 1972
Lt Col Steve Braswell 10 November 1972
Lt Col Abner Prophett 1 March 1973
Lt Col Henry D. Canterbury 23 July 1973 (Major General)
Lt Col James D. Terry 31 January 1975
Lt Col Earnest L. Coleman 27 July 1976
Lt Col Wilbur E. Roberts 6 June 1977
Lt Col Marcus F. Cooper, Jr. 22 June 1978
Lt Col Timothy F. McConnell 6 February 1980-9 October 1980
308th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [9 October 1980-1 October 1986]
Lt Col Timothy F. McConnell 9 October 1980
Lt Col Lester D. Alford 10 August 1981
Lt Col Kenneth A. Frey 13 April 1983
Lt Col James P. Soden 18 November 1983
Lt Col Max R. Hix 27 December 1985-1 October 1986
101
308th Tactical Fighter Squadron [1 October 1986-1 November 1991]
Lt Col Max R. Hix 1 October 1986
Lt Col Douglas M. Hosmer 30 October 1986
Lt Col Robert R. Scott 25 October 1987
Lt Col Michael B. Larkin 28 April 1989
Lt Col Phillip B. Straley 16 June 1989-1 November 1991.
308th Fighter Squadron [1 November 1991-.]
Lt Col Phillip B. Straley 1 November 1991
Lt Col Fred Van Valkenburg 10 July 1992 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col Ricardo M. Cazessus 25 June 1993
Lt Col Kevin W. Smith 1 April 1994 318
Lt Col William C. Coutts 17 March 1995 319
Lt Col Lawrence L. Wells 11 July 1996 320 (Major General)
Lt Col Timothy P. Orwell 11 July 1997 321
Lt Col James M. Smothermon 1 December 1997 322
Lt Col Michael C. Barton 13 December 1999 323
Lt Col Samuel C. Johnston 19 January 2001 324
Lt Col John M. Sieverling 29 January 2002 325
Lt Col David E. Ellis 9 July 2003 326
Lt Col Kenneth E. Lacy 24 June 2005 327
Lt Col Jeffrey C. Schroeder 16 May 2007 328
Lt Col Jeffrey R. Jenssen 14 May 2009 329
Lt Col Christopher Colcord 2 June 2011-. 330
318
[311 FS SO SO=GF-001, 25 March 1994]
319
308 FS SO SO-GF-005, 15 March 1995
320
308 FS SO SO-GF-002, 13 June 1996
321
308 FS SO G-003, 9 July 1997
322
308 FS SO GL-002, ca. 2 December 1997
323
308 FS SO GF-002, 9 December 1999
324
308 FS SO GL-001, 9 January 2001
325
56 FW SO GL-1, 28 January 2002
326
56 FW SO 308FS-GL-03-4, 9 July 2003
327
56 FW SO 56OG-G-2005-12, 24 June 2005
328
308 FS SO G-2007-005, ca. 21 May 2007
329
308 FS SO G-035, 12 June 2009
330
308 FS SO G-012, 2 June 2011
102
309th Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 309th Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) on 21 January 1942.
Activated on 30 January 1942.
Redesignated 309th Fighter Squadron on
15 May 1942.
Redesignated 309th Fighter Squadron,
Single Engine, on 20 August 1943.
Inactivated on 7 November 1945.
Activated on 20 August 1946.
Redesignated 309th Fighter Squadron, Jet,
on 15 June 1948.
Redesignated 309th Fighter-Bomber Squadron
on 20 January 1950.
Redesignated 309th Fighter-Escort Squadron on 16 July 1950.
Redesignated 309th Strategic Fighter Squadron on 20 January 1953.
Redesignated 309th Fighter-Bomber Squadron on 1 April 1957.
Redesignated 309th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 1 July 1958.
Redesignated 309th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron on 1 July 1982.
Redesignated 309th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 1 October 1986.
Redesignated 309th Fighter Squadron on 1 November 1991. 331
Inactivated on 31 December 1993.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 332
309th Fighter Squadron Supermarine Spitfire Mk V
331
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991
332
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
103
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater:
Air Offensive, Europe [1942–1944]
Algeria-French Morocco with Arrowhead [1942]
Tunisia [1942-1943]
Sicily with Arrowhead [1942-1943]
Naples-Foggia [1943-1944]
Anzio [1944]
Rome-Arno [1944]
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Southern France [1944]
North Apennines [1944-1945]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Po Valley [1945]
Air Combat [1941–1945]
Vietnam:
Vietnam Air Offensive [1966-1967]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968]
Vietnam Air/Ground [1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
TET 69/Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer-Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter-Spring 1970 [1969-1970]
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970]
Distinguished Unit Citations,
Rumania, 21 April 1944
Poland, 25 July 1945
Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam, 1 May-31 December 1968.
104
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 June–16 December 1966 with Combat "V" Device
17 December 1966–30 April 1968 with Combat "V" Device
4 July 1952–16 July 1952
1 March 1962–30 November 1962
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 333
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 334
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 335
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 336
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 337
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 338
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 339
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 340
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 341
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 342
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 343
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm,
[16 December] 1966–October 1970.
309th Tactical Fighter Squadron's North American F-100D-60-NA Super Sabres
Serials 56-2927 & 56-2952 on ramp at Tuy Hoa AB South Vietnam, April 1970.
333
AETC SO GA-18/1996
334
AETC SO GA-12/1998
335
AETC SO GA-9/2000
336
AETC SO GA-55/2004
337
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
338
AETC SO GA-045/2007
339
AETC SO G-054/2008
340
AETC SO G-071/2009
341
AETC SO G-025/2010
342
AETC SO G-086/2011
343
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
105
Squadron – 173.75 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 15 Squadron Aces:
Name
Aerial Victories
In Sq Lifetime Total
1st Lt John M. Ainlay 8 8
Capt Samuel J. Brown 5.5 15.5
Capt George T. Buck, Jr. 344 3 6
Capt Frederick J. Dorsch, Jr. 8.5 8.5 (KIA, 29 October 1944)
1st Lt Richard D. Faxon 5 5
1st Lt Raymond F. Harmeyer 6 6
Maj Frank A. Hill 5 7
Capt George G. Loving, Jr. 5 5 (Lieutenant General)
Capt Murray D. McLaughlin 7 7
Capt Carl W. Payne 5 5
Capt Dale E. Shafer 4 7
1st Lt Robert D Thompson 5.25 5.25
Lt Col Harrison R. Thyng 5 10 (Brigadier General)
Maj Victor E. Warford 8 8
Capt David C. Wilhelm 5 5
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
Assignments. 31st Pursuit (later, 31st Fighter) Group, 30 January 1942-7 November
1945. 31st Fighter (later, 31st Fighter-Bomber; 31st Fighter-Escort) Group, 20 August
1946 (attached to 31st Fighter-Escort Wing, 27 July 1951-15 June 1952); 31st Fighter-
Escort (later, 31st Strategic Fighter; 31st Fighter-Bomber; 31st Tactical Fighter) Wing,
16 June 1952 (attached to Alaskan Air Command, 5 January -9 February 1957;
Unknown, 9 July-15 November 1960 and 9 October-26 November 1961; 18th Tactical
Fighter Wing, 17 July -22 December 1962 and 26 September-30 December 1963;
7231st Combat Support Group, 5 August-27 November 1964 and 18 January -31 March
1966; 41st Combat Support Group, 1-24 April 1966); 4403d Tactical Fighter Wing,
9 October 1970; 31st Tactical Fighter (later, 31st Tactical Training; 31st Tactical Fighter;
31st Fighter) Wing, 30 October 1970; 31st Operations Group, 1 November 1991
(attached to 363d Operations Group, 28 August-19 November 1992); 363d Operations
Group, 20 November 1992-31 December 1993. 56th Operations Group, 1 April 1994-. 345
Stations. Baer Field, Indiana, 30 January 1942; New Orleans Air Base, Louisiana,
6 February-19 May 1942; High Ercall, England, ca. 12 June 1942; Westhampnett,
England, 1 August-23 October 1942; Tafaraoui, Algeria, 8 November 1942; La Senia,
Algeria, 14 November 1942; Thelepte, Tunisia, 6 February 1943; Tebessa, Algeria,
17 February 1943; Youks-les-Bain, Algeria, 22 February 1943; Kalaa Djerda, Tunisia,
26 February 1943; Thelepte, Tunisia, 11 March 1943; Djilma, Tunisia, 7 April 1943;
Le Sers, Tunisia, 12 April 1943; Korba, Tunisia, 17 May 1943; Gozo, 3 July 1943; Ponte
Olivo, Sicily, 13 July 1943; Agrigento, Sicily, 21 July 1943; Termini, Sicily, 5 August
344
NOTE: Became an ace while in the squadron.
345
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
106
1943; Milazzo, Sicily, 5 September 1943; Montecorvino, Italy, 21 September 1943;
Pomigliano, Italy, 14 October 1943; Castel Volturno, Italy, ca. 19 January 1944; San
Severo, Italy, 4 April 1944; Mondolfo, Italy, 4 March 1945; Triolo, Italy,
15 July-5 August 1945; Drew Field, Florida, August-7 November 1945. Giebelstadt,
Germany, 20 August 1946; Kitzingen, Germany, ca. 30 September 1946-25 June 1947;
Langley Field, Virginia, 25 June 1947; Turner Field (later Air Force Base), Georgia,
4 September 1947 (deployed at Manston Royal Air Force Station, England, 26 December
1950-25 July 1951; Misawa Air Base, Japan, 20 July-16 October 1952 and 7 November
1953-9 February 1954; Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, 5 January-9 February 1957);
George Air Force Base, California, 15 March 1959 (deployed at Aviano Air Base, Italy,
9 July-15 November 1960; Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, 9 October-26 November
1961); Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, 1 June 1962-13 December 1966; (deployed at
Kadena Air Base, Japan, 7 July-22 December 1962; Itazuke Air Base, Japan,
26 September-31 December 1963; Cigli Air Base, Turkey, 5 August-27 November 1964
and 18 January-24 April 1966); Tuy Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam, 16 December
1966-October 1970; England Air Force Base, Louisiana, ca. 9 October 1970; Homestead
Air Force Base, Florida, 30 October 1970 (operated from Shaw Air Force Base, South
Carolina, 23 August-30 September 1992); Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina,
1 October 1992-31 December 1993. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 346
Aircraft.
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1942
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1942
Supermarine Spitfire 1942-1943
North American P-51 Lightning 1943-1945, and 1947-1948
Lockheed P (later, F)-80 Shooting Star 1946-1947
Republic F-84 Thunderjet 1948-1957
North American F-100 Super Sabre 1957-1970
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1970-1986
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1986-1993, and 1994-.
Emblem. Originally approved on 27 November 1944; newest rendition approved on
18 July 1995.
Blazon. Azure blended per pale Celeste to sinister, Donald Duck in animated anger
Proper garbed in a flight jacket and P-3 crash helmet Light Blue and Argent grasping in
dexter hand a board bendwise sinister with a nail in the end Proper and in sinister hand a
lightning flash bendwise above his head Or, above a demi-globe issuant from base,
Celeste grid lined of the first land masses Brown and below in chief a mullet of eight
Argent; in dexter the constellation, Ursa Major in mullets of four White; all within a
diminished bordure of the first.
Attached below the disc a White scroll edged with a narrow Blue border and
inscribed "309th FIGHTER SQ" in Blue letters.
346
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
107
Official Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The disc is blended dark to light blue indicating the
unit's day and night defense capabilities. The single star and constellation depict the
squadron's pioneering efforts in the establishment of celestial navigation as a viable and
integral method of navigation for fighter units. Donald Duck in flight gear grasping a
lightning bolt and board with nail, symbolizes the lineage of the unit as a fighter
squadron and its defense and striking capabilities through in-flight refueling. It also
implies the squadron's participation in two historic long range ocean crossings.
Commanders.
309th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) [30 January 1942-15 May 1942]
Maj Harrison R. Thyng 30 January 1942-15 May 1942
[Ace](Major General)
309th Fighter Squadron [15 May 1942-20 August 1943]
Maj Harrison R. Thyng 15 May 1942 [Ace](Major General)
Maj Frank A. Hill 12 May 1943 [Ace]
Maj Carl W. Payne 13 July 1943–20 August 1943. [Ace]
309th Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [20 August 1943-7 November 1945;
20 August 1946 – 15 June 1948]
Maj Carl W. Payne 20 August 1943 [Ace]
Capt Robert E. McCarthy, Jr. 14 October 1943
Maj Garth B. Jared 9 November 1943
Maj John M. Meader 18 April 1944
Lt Col Victor E. Warford 22 May 1944 [Ace]
Maj George T. Buck, Jr. 12 October 1944 [Ace]
Maj Simon H. Johnson, Jr. 16 February 1945
Maj Julius D. Shivers
9 May 1945-Unknown
Unknown, 20 August 1946
Lt Col Robert W. Stevens October 1947-15 June 1948.
309th Fighter Squadron, Jet [15 June 1948-20 January 1950]
Lt Col Robert W. Stevens 15 June 1948
Maj Arthur D. Thomas November 1948-20 January 1950.
309th Fighter-Bomber Squadron [20 January 1950-16 July 1950]
Maj Arthur D. Thomas 20 January 1950
Maj William R. Young ca. 1950.
108
309th Fighter-Escort Squadron [16 July 1950-20 January 1953]
Maj William R. Young ca. 1950
Maj Don V. Booty April 1951
Lt Col Charles W. Lenfest January 1952-20 January 1953
[Ace](Brigadier General)
309th Strategic Fighter Squadron [20 January 1953-1 April 1957]
Lt Col Charles W. Lenfest 20 January 1953
[Ace](Brigadier General)
Lt Col Hayden C. Curry June 1953
Maj Adrian E. Drew January 1955
Capt David W. Williams October 1955
Maj Donald W. Maggert April 1956 - 1 April 1957.
309th Fighter-Bomber Squadron [1 April 1957-1 July 1958]
Maj Donald W. Maggert 1 April 1957
Maj James E. Bean 11 October 1957
Maj Arthur H. Johnson, Jr. 25 April 1958 - 1 July 1958.
309th Tactical Fighter Squadron [1 July 1958-1 July 1982]
Maj Arthur H. Johnson, Jr. 1 July 1958
Lt Col Louis R. Vogt 15 March 1959
Maj John B. Butler 1959
Maj Herbert L. Prevost 1960
Lt Col Garth L. Reynolds 13 December 1961
Maj Aubrey C. Edinburgh 1 April 1963
Lt Col Garth L. Reynolds 9 September 1963
Lt Col Tom L. DeGraffenried 8 June 1964-5 November 1965
Lt Col Carlos O. Beasley 1965
Lt Col Freddie L. Poston
ca. 7 January 1966 (Lieutenant General)
Lt Col Daniel J. Sheehan, Jr. 1 November 1967
Lt Col David S. Renshaw 1968
Lt Col Lawrence W. Whitford, Jr. 6 February 1969
Lt Col Ronald A. Berdoy 26 September 1969
Lt Col Clarence D. Glenn 24 August-ca. 15 October 1970
Lt Col Charles W. Hetherington 30 October 1970
Lt Col Donald V. MacKellar 10 May 1972
Lt Col Steve Braswell 10 March 1973
Lt Col Donald A. Elliott 24 May 1974
Lt Col Edward S. Joiner 9 September 1975
Lt Col Ralph E. Beekman 31 December 1977
Lt Col Michael G. Major 26 November 1979
Lt Col Travis E. Harrell 3 April 1981 - 1 July 1982.
(Brigadier General)
109
309th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [1 July 1982-1 October 1986]
Lt Col Travis E. Harrell 1 July 1982 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col Thomas R. Lanum 13 July 1982
Lt Col William D. Ray 24 July 1984
Lt Col David L. Haas 12 June 1986 - 1 October 1986
309th Tactical Fighter Squadron [1 October 1986-1 November 1991]
Lt Col David L. Haas, 1 October 1986
Lt Col Robert D. O'Dell, 7 June 1988
Lt Col Thomas B. Poole, 29 December 1989 - 1 November 1991
309th Fighter Squadron [1 November 1991–31 December 1993; 1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Thomas B. Poole 1 November 1991
Lt Col Thomas A. Gilkey July 1992-31 December 1993
Lt Col Charles B. Oltman 1 April 1994 347
Lt Col Randy S. Wenzel 13 July 1995 348
Lt Col William D. McConnell 31 January 1997 349
Lt Col Philip A. Oppenheimer 1 February 1999 350
Lt Col Christopher P. Bisgrove 25 February 2000 351
Lt Col Neal R. Carbaugh 1 October 2001 352
Lt Col Roy D. McMickel 19 March 2003 353
Lt Col Keith S. Miller 23 March 2004 354
Lt Col Peter F. Davey 12 May 2006 355
Lt Col Peter Bilodeau 23 May 2008 356
Lt Col Daniel T. Lasica 21 May 2010 357
Lt Col Stephane Wolfgeher 24 May 2012-. 358
347
58 MSS SO SO-GAJ-01, 25 March 1994
348
56 FW SO SO-GAJ-01, 12 July 1995
349
309 FS SO SO-GJ-02, 16 January 1997
350
309 FS SO SO-GJ-02, ca. 26 January 1999
351
309 FS SO SO-GJ-01, ca. 28 February 2000
352
309 FS SO SO GJ-001, 1 October 2001
353
309 FS SO 309FS GS-1, 10 March 2003
354
309 FS SO 56 OSS-6-2004-3, 17 March 2004
355
309 FS SO 56OG-G2006-05, 4 May 2006
356
309 FS SO G-018, 22 May 2008
357
56 MSG SO G-006, 19 May 2010
358
56 MSG SO G-004, 9 April 2012
110
310th Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 310th Pursuit Squadron
(Interceptor) on 21 January 1942.
Activated on 9 February 1942.
Redesignated 310th Fighter Squadron on
15 May 1942.
Redesignated 310th Fighter Squadron,
Single Engine, on 20 August 1943.
Inactivated on 20 February 1946.
Redesignated 310th Fighter-Bomber
Squadron on 25 June 1952.
Activated on 10 July 1952.
Redesignated 310th Tactical Missile
Squadron on 15 July 1958.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 25 March 1962.
Redesignated 310th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron on 11 December 1969.
Activated on 15 December 1969.
Redesignated as 310th Fighter Squadron on 1 November 1991. 359
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II American Theater.
Campaign Streamers.
World War II Asiatic-Pacific Theater
Air Offensive, Japan [1942–1945]
New Guinea [1943-1944]
Bismarck Archipelago [1943-1944]
Western Pacific [1944-1945]
Leyte [1944-1945]
Luzon [1944-1945]
Southern Philippines [1945]
Ryukyus [1945]
China Offensive [1945]
Korean
Korea, Summer-Fall [1952]
Third Korean Winter [1952-1953]
Korea, Summer 1953 [1953]
359
TAC SO G-12, 1 November 1991
111
Decorations.
Distinguished Unit Citations
Philippine Islands, 26 December 1944;
Korea, 1 May-27 July 1953.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
[15]-31 December 1969
1 January 1971-31 December 1972
1 January 1975-31 December 1976 360
1 January 1978-31 December 1979 361
1 August 1982-31 May 1984;
1 June 1986-31 May 1988 362
1 June 1989-31 May 1991 363
1 June 1990-31 May 1992
1 June 1991-31 May 1992 364
1 June 1992-31 May 1993
1 June 1992-31 March 1994
1 June 1994-31 May 1995
1 June 1995-30 June 1996 365
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 366
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 367
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 368
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 369
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 370
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 371
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 372
360
DAF SO GB-118, 1 March 1978
361
DAF SO GB-022, 19 January 1981
362
TAC SO GA-074, 7 December 1988
363
TAC SO GA-020, 15 January 1992
364
ACC SO GA-002, 16 June 1992
365
AETC, SO GA-18/1996
366
AETC SO GA-12/1998
367
AETC SO GA-9/2000
368
AETC SO GA-55/2004
369
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
370
AETC SO GA-045/2007
371
AETC SO G-054/2008
372
AETC SO G-071/2009
112
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 373
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 374
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 375
Special Honors.
Philippine Presidential Unit Citation (WWII).
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation: 10 July 1952-31 March 1953.
Squadron – 2 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 376
Squadron Aces: None.
Assignments. 58th Pursuit (later, 58th Fighter) Group, 9 February 1942; Fifth Air Force,
27 January-20 February 1946. 58th Fighter-Bomber Group, 10 July 1952 (attached to
58th Fighter-Bomber Wing, 1 March-7 November 1957); 58th Fighter-Bomber Wing,
8 November 1957; 314th Air Division, 1 July 1958; 58th Tactical Missile Group, 15 July
1958-25 March 1962. 58th Tactical Fighter Training (later, 58th Tactical Training) Wing,
15 December 1969; 58th Operations Group, 1 October 1991 377 ; 56th Operations Group,
1 April 1994-. 378
Stations. Harding Field, Louisiana, 9 February 1942; Dale Mabry Field, Florida,
4 March 1942; Richmond Army Air Base, Virginia, 16 October 1942; Philadelphia Muni
Airport, Pennsylvania, 24 October 1942; Bradley Field, Connecticut, 5 March 1943;
Hillsgrove, Rhode Island, 28 April 1943; Grenier Field, New Hampshire, 16 September-
22 October 1943; Brisbane, Australia, ca. 23 November 1943; Dobodura, New Guinea,
28 December 1943; Saidor, New Guinea, ca. 2 April 1944; Noemfoor, 6 September 1944;
San Roque, Leyte, 18 November 1944; San Jose, Mindoro, 22 December 1944;
Mangaldan, Luzon, 6 April 1945; Porac, Luzon, 18 April 1945; Okinawa, 9 July 1945;
Japan, 26 October 1945; Fort William McKinley, Luzon, 28 December 1945-20 February
1946. Taegu Air Base, South Korea, 10 July 1952; Osan-Ni (later, Osan) Air Base, South
Korea, 19 March 1955-25 March 1962. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 15 December
1969-.
373
AETC SO G-025/2010
374
AETC SO G-086/2011
375
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
376
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
377
TAC SO GB-3, 1 October 1991
378
AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
113
Aircraft and Missiles.
Bell P-39 Airacobra 1942
Curtis P-40 Warhawk 1942-1943
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt 1943-1945
Republic F-84 Thunderjet 1952-1954;
North American F-86 Sabre 1954-1958;
Martin MGM-1 Matador Missile 1958-1962.
Ling-Temco-Vought A-7 Corsair II 1969-1971;
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II 1971-1982;
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1982-.
Emblem. Originally approved on 9 October 1943; newest rendition approved on 20 July
1995.
Blazon. Celeste, two lightning flashes saltirewise in bend sinister Tenne edged Or
surmounted by a human skull Argent garnished Sable wearing a top hat of the last
garnished of the fourth supported by a bow tie of the second garnished Yellow all above
a pair of dice White with spots Black; all within a diminished inner bordure Light Blue
and outer bordure Yellow.
Attached below the disc a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "310th FIGHTER SQ" in Yellow letters.
Official Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The skull represents death and the possibility that the
unit may be called to defend the peace at any time. The dice symbolize that the squadron
will win, with a natural seven, in its gamble with death. The lightning bolts denote the
weapons systems employed by the squadron.
Commanders.
310th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) [30 January 1942-15 May 1942]
Maj James D. Mayden 9 February 1942
310th Fighter Squadron [15 May 1942-20 August 1943]
Maj James D. Mayden 15 May 1942
Maj Lewis W. Chick, Jr. September 1942 [Ace]
1 Lt Harry M. Odren 24 October 1942
1 Lt Howard A. Tuman 1 November 1942
Capt Joseph T. Klemovich 10 December 1942
Capt Robert R. Bonebrake May 1943
Maj Jack McClure, Jr. 1 July 1943
114
310th Fighter Squadron, Single Engine [20 August 1943-20 February 1946]
Maj Jack McClure, Jr. 1 July 1943
Maj Howard A. Tuman 27 April 1944
Capt Don V. Booty August 1945-February 1946
310th Fighter-Bomber Squadron [10 July 1952-15 July 1958]
Lt Col Don V. Booty 10 July 1952
Lt Col John E. Gaffney December 1952
Lt Col Minar M. Dervage April 1953
Lt Col James R. Wilson 28 March 1955
Lt Col Carmel M. Shook ca. June 1956
Lt Col Jake L. Wilk, Jr. ca. December 1956
Maj Clayton E. Davis 1957 [Ace]
Lt Col Gerald W. Rooney August 1957
2 Lt Richard J. Kirnberger 15 June 1958
none (not manned) 1 July 1958-15 July 1958
310th Tactical Missile Squadron [15 July 1958-25 March 1962]
none (not manned) 15 July 1958-May 1959
Maj James T. Morrison ca. June 1959
Lt Col Enos L. Commons ca. January 1960
Maj Marcus F. Tinsley December 1961-25 March 1962
310th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [15 December 1969-1 November 1991]
Unknown 15 December 1969-31 January 1970
Lt Col Robert M. Bond 1 February 1970 (Lieutenant General)
Lt Col Max L. Templin III October 1970
Lt Col Phillip D. Snyder September 1971
Lt Col Jimmy L. Goode 2 April 1973
Lt Col William P. Bristol 22 July 1974 379
Lt Col Robert K. Simm 14 August 1974 380
Lt Col Richard O. Bennett October 1975
Lt Col Richard M. Hirth 1 January 1977
Lt Col Clarence E. Fox 17 February 1978 381
Lt Col Robert B. Hinckley 14 February 1980
Lt Col Thomas M. Kennedy, Jr. 14 August 1981 382
Lt Col Alan A. Lavoy 21 September 1981 383
379
310 TFTS SO G-1, 22 July 1974
380
58 CSG 141937Z AUG 74 MSG
381
58 CSG SO G-5, 17 February 1978
382
832 CSG SO G-37, 14 August 1981
383
832 CSG SO G-54, 2 October 1981
115
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col Richard P. High 1 July 1982 384
Lt Col Michael W. Loden 3 August 1984 385
Lt Col John B. Gibbs 20 June 1986 386
Lt Col John E. Chambers 17 June 1988 387
Lt Col James W. Kimmel 1 December 1989-1 November 1991 388
310th Fighter Squadron [1 November 1991-.]
Lt Col James W. Kimmel November 1991
Lt Col Jon A. Wegner 2 December 1991 389
Lt Col Scott C. Harrison 22 October 1993 390
Lt Col James M. Daniels 8 December 1995 391
Lt Col Charles R. Greenwood 8 May 1997 392
Lt Col Mark B. Topper 5 June 1998 393
Lt Col Paul E. Smith 16 June 2000 394
Lt Col Jeffrey R. McDaniels 6 June 2002 395 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col Patrick McKenzie 9 April 2004 396
Lt Col Scott L. Gierat 21 April 2006 397
Lt Col James D. McCune 24 April 2008 398
Lt Col Todd A. Murphey 28 May 2010 399
Lt Col Jon S. Wheeler, Jr. 15 June 2012 400
384
832 CSG SO G-41, 23 June 1982
385
832 CSG SO G-022, 27 July 1984
386
832 CSG SO G-36, 11 June 1986
387
832 CSG SO SO-G-47, 16 June 1988
388
832 MSS SO G-7, 30 November 1989
389
58 MSS SO SO-G-38, 2 December 1991
390
310 FS SO SO-G-02, 19 October 1993
391
310 FS SO SOGX-001, 12 December 1995
392
310 FS SO SOGX-002, 7 May 1997
393
310 FS SO SOGX-007, 1 June 1998
394
310 FS SO SOGX-002, 16 June 2000
395
310 FS SO SOGX-003, 4 June 2002
396
310 FS SO 56 OSS - G - 2004 - 4, 9 April 2004
397
310 FS, 56OG-G2006-04, 18 April 2006
398
310 FS, G-012, 17 April 2008
399
56 MSG, G-004, 4 May 2010
400
56 MSG SO G-012, 15 June 2012
116
425th Fighter Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 425th Night Fighter
Squadron on 23 November 1943.
Activated on 1 December 1943.
Inactivated on 25 August 1947.
Redesignated 425th Tactical Fighter
Training Squadron on
22 August 1969.
Activated on 15 October 1969.
Inactivated on 1 September 1989. 401
Redesignated as 425th Fighter Squadron
on 1 December 1992.
Activated on 30 December 1992. 402
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater
Normandy [1944]
Northern France [1944]
Rhineland [1944-1945]
Ardennes-Alsace [1944-1945]
Central Europe [1945]
Air Combat [1941-1945]
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
15 October-31 December 1969
1 January 1971-31 December 1972
1 January 1975-31 December 1976 403
1 January 1978-31 December 1979 404
1 August 1982-31 May 1984
30 December 1992-31 March 1994
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 405
401
TAC SO GB-45, 23 August 1989
402
ACC SO GB-27, 14 December 1992
403
DAF SO GB-118, 1 March 1978
404
DAF SO GB-022, 19 January 1981
405
AETC SO GA-18/1996
117
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards (Continued)
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 406
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 407
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 408
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 409
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 410
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 411
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 412
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 413
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 414
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 415
Special Honors.
Citation in the Order of the Day, Belgian Army: 6 June-30 September 1944.
Squadron – 20 Total Aerial Victory Credits. 416
Squadron Aces: None.
Assignments. 481st Night Fighter Operational Training Group, 1 December 1943; Ninth
Air Force, 23 May 1944; IX Air Defense Command, 10 June 1944; 471st Fighter Wing,
20 June 1944; IX Air Defense Command, 6 August 1944; XIX Tactical Air Command,
7 October 1944; Ninth Air Force, 7 July 1945; Fourth Air Force, 9 September 1945; Air
Defense Command, 21 March 1946; Fourth Air Force, 31 July 1946-25 August 1947.
58th Tactical Fighter Training (later, 58th Tactical Training) Wing, 15 October 1969;
405th Tactical Training Wing, 29 August 1979 417 -1 September 1989. 58th Operations
Group, 30 December 1992; 56th Operations Group, 1 April 1994-. 418
406
AETC SO GA-12/1998
407
AETC SO GA-9/2000
408
AETC SO GA-55/2004
409
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
410
AETC SO GA-045/2007
411
AETC SO G-054/2008
412
AETC SO G-071/2009
413
AETC SO G-025/2010
414
AETC SO G-086/2011
415
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
416
SOURCE: AF Historical Research Agency
417
TAC SO GA-95, 20 August 1979
418
AETC SO G-40, 20 April 1994
118
Stations. Orlando Air Base, Florida, 1 December 1943; Hammer Field, California,
30 January 1944; Visalia Muni Airport, California, 25 February-1 May 1944; Chormy
Down, England, 26 May 1944; Scorton, England, 12 June 1944; Stoneman Park,
England, 12 August 1944; Vannes, France, 18 August 1944; Le Moustoiris, France,
1 September 1944; Coulommiers, France, 11 September 1944; Prosnes, France,
13 October 1944; Etain, France, 9 November 1944; Frankfurt, Germany, 12 April 1945;
Furth, Germany, 2 May 1945; Crepy-en-Laommis, France, 5 July 1945; St Victoret,
France, 18-24 August 1945; Lemoore Army Air Field, California, 9 September 1945;
Camp Pinedale, California, 23 October 1945; March Field, California, 8 March 1946;
McChord Field, Washington, 1 September 1946-25 August 1947. Williams Air Force
Base, Arizona, 15 October 1969-1 September 1989. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona,
30 December 1992-.
Aircraft.
Northrop YP-61 Black Widow 1944
Douglas A-20 Havoc 1944
Douglas P-70 Nighthawk 1944
Northrop P-61 Black Widow 1944-1946, 1946-1947
Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter 1969-1989
Lockheed F-16 Fighting Falcon 1983-.
Emblem. Approved on 7 January 1993; replaced emblems approved on 11 June 1970
and 4 May 1945.
Blazon. Gules, a target viewfinder throughout Sable, surmounted by a " black widow"
spider in base of the last garnished of the first between two lightning flashes chevronwise
Argent, all within a diminished border Black.
Attached below the disc, a White scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "425th FTR SQ".
Official Motto. None.
Significance. On a red globe is a fighter pilot's gunsight. A Black Widow spider is
superimposed over the gunsight. On either side of the spider is a white lightning bolt.
The red globe is consistent with Singaporean national colors, acknowledging their
role in the reactivation of this squadron. The unit mission is to support Peace Carvin II
(Foreign Military Sales), selling F·16s and training to the Republic of Singapore. The
gunsight reflects the tools of the fighter pilot's trade. It also symbolizes the web of the
Black Widow spider. · The Black Widow spider maintains historical continuity with
the squadron's original mission as a P·61 Black Widow Night Fighter Squadron in
World War II. The lightning bolts on either side of the spider symbolize the striking
power of modern tactical fighters.
119
Commanders.
425th Night Fighter Squadron [1 December 1943- 25 August 1947]
Unknown 1 December 1943-9 December 1943
Lt Col Leon G. Lewis 10 December 1943
Maj Russell Glasser
10 February 1945 (temporary)
Capt McDonald
7 May 1945 (temporary)
Lt Col Leon G. Lewis
ca. June 1945-Unknown
Unknown Unknown-31 August 1946
Lt Col George Laven, Jr. 1 September 1946
Lt Col Charles W. Howe November 1946
Capt A. K. McDonald
January 1947 (temporary)
Lt Col Charles W. Howe
March 1947-Unknown
425 Tactical Fighter Training Squadron [15 October 1969-1 September 1989]
Lt Col Herman O. Thomson
15 October 1969 (Lieutenant General)
Lt Col Roy L. Holbrook ca. July 1970
Lt Col John H. Gale, Jr. by July 1971
Lt Col George C. Forstnee by July 1974
Lt Col Conrad L. Bavousett by July 1975
Lt Col Tom E. Stewart 17 December 1975 419
Lt Col Charles D. Bozzuto 13 January 1978 420
Lt Col Kenneth J. Monroe 1 February 1980 421
Lt Col Philip W. Nuber 30 December 1980 (Major General)
Lt Col Francis N. Markette 19 June 1982
Col John M. Vickery 4 October 1982 422
Col Edward T. Boswell 16 January 1984 423
Lt Col Richard K. Willis 6 December 1985 424
Lt Col James E. Anderson 22 June 1987 425
Lt Col Steven R. Chealander 11 July 1988-1 September 1989. 426
419
58 CSG 190013Z DEC 75 MSG
420
425 TFTS SO G-1, 13 January 1978
421
425 TFTS SO G-7, 1 February 1980
422
425 TFTS SO G-8, 4 October 1982
423
425 TFTS SO G-02, 16 January 1984
424
832 CSG SO G-10, 5 December 1985
425
832 CSG SO G-51, 19 June 1987
426
832 CSG SO SO-G-67, 1 September 1988
120
425 Fighter Squadron [30 December 1992-.]
Lt Col Wayne E. Hughes 30 December 1992 427
Lt Col Michael L. Hauser 20 June 1994 428
Lt Col Jack I. Gregory Jr. 3 July 1996 429
Lt Col Jeffrey E. Stambaugh 10 July 1998 430
Lt Col Daniel G. Saville 2 March 2000 431
Lt Col Paul H. McGillicuddy 1 November 2001 432 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col John D. Roosa
433
25 June 2002
Lt Col Barre R. Sequin 17 May 2004 434
Lt Col Lynn I. Scheel 22 May 2006 435
Lt Col Stephen J. Granger 25 April 2008 436
Lt Col Michael J. Dean 7 May 2010 437
Lt Col Kevin S. Cruikshank 4 May 2012-. 438
First two Block 52 F-16s, Tail Nos. 94-0276 (D-model) and 94-0266 (C-model),
arrived on 2 June 1998 for the Peace Carvin II Program
with the Republic of Singapore Air Force.
427
58 OG SO SO-GC-1, 29 December 1992
428
425 FS SO SO-GAH-001, 17 June 1994
429
425 FS SO SO-GAH-002, 13 June 1996
430
425 FS SO GAH-001, 10 July 1998
431
425 FS SO GAH-001, 2 March 2000
432
425 FS SO GAH-002, 1 November 2001
433
[No SO], 25 June 2002
434
425 FS SO 56-OSS-G-2004-06, 17 May 2004
435
425 FS, 56 OG-G20006-09, 1 May 2006
436
425 FS, G-009, 4 April 2008
437
56 MSG, G-003, 30 April 2010
438
56 MSG SO G-008, 23 April 2012
121
56th Maintenance Group
Col Victor H. Mora
Lineage.
Established as 56th Maintenance and Supply Group on 28 July 1947.
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (19 September 1995) with the 56th Maintenance and Supply Group, which
was established on 14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Disestablished on 27 September 1984.
Reestablished, and redesignated 56th Logistics Group, on 28 October 1991.
Activated 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994 439
Activated 1 April 1994. 440
Redesignated 56th Maintenance Group on 27 September 2002. 441
439
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
440
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
441
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
122
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 442
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 443
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 444
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 445
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 446
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 447
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 448
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 449
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 450
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 451
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 452
PAST AND PRESENT UNITS ASSIGNED
Currently Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron 27 September 2002-.
56th Component Repair Squadron
later, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron 1 April 1994-. 453
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron 1 April 1994-. 454
56th Logistics Support Squadron
later, 56th Maintenance Operations Squadron 1 April 1994-. 455
756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron 27 September 2002-.
442
AETC SO GA-18/1996
443
AETC SO GA-12/1998
444
AETC SO GA-9/2000
445
AETC SO GA-55/2004
446
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
447
AETC SO GA-045/2007
448
AETC SO G-054/2008
449
AETC SO G-071/2009
450
AETC SO G-025/2010
451
AETC SO G-086/2011
452
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
453
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
454
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
455
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
123
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Contracting Squadron 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 456
56th Logistics Support Squadron 1 November 1991-30 September 1993.
56th Maintenance Squadron 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 457
56th Supply Squadron 28 July 1947-1 August 1948
1 August 1948-6 February 1952;
1 November 1991-4 January 1994 458 ;
1 April 1994-1 August 2002. 459
56th Motor Vehicle Squadron, Fighter, Jet,
later, 56th Motor Vehicle Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952.
56th Transportation Squadron 1 November 1991-4 January 1994 460 ;
1 April 1994-1 August 2002. 461
Assignments. 56th Fighter Wing, 15 August 1947-1 August 1948. 56th Fighter (later
56th Fighter-Interceptor) Wing, 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Fighter Wing,
1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 56th Fighter Wing, 1 April 1994-. 462
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, AFB) 15 August 1947-6 February 1952. MacDiIl AFB,
FL, 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. Luke AFB, AZ, 1 April 1994-. 463
Emblem. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Emblem approved 19 April 1967. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Blazon. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.] Tenne
on a chevron azure fimbriated or two lightning flashes chevronwise of the last. [Source:
1967 Emblem Approval Letter.].
456
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
457
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
458
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
459
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
460
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
461
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
462
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
463
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
124
Motto. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Cave Tonitrum (Beware of the Thunderbolt). [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Significance. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
The emblem is symbolic of the Wing. The heraldic chevron, represents support and
signifies the Wing's support of our nation's quest for peace. The blue of the chevron
represents the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. The lightning bolt
symbolizes speed and aggressiveness with which the unit performs. The color of the
shield represents the Air Corps and commemorates the service of the 56th Fighter Group,
whose honors and history the Wing inherits. The emblem bears the Air Force colors of
golden yellow and ultramarine blue. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Commanders.
56th Maintenance and Supply Group [15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown
Unknown
Lt Col David K. Lyster, Jr. 31 August 1947
Lt Col Paul E. Hoeper
bef 20 April 1948-Unknown.
56th Maintenance and Supply Group [1 August 1948-6 February 1952]
Unknown
Unknown
Maj Francis M. Baker bef 30 June 1949
Maj Morris Farber bef 30 November 1949
Lt Col Robert F. Baldwin 1 December 1949
Lt Col Roger W. Taylor bef 31 March 1950
Lt Col Morris Farber bef 31 May 1950
Lt Col Ernest J. White, Jr. 23 August 1950 (Brigadier General)
Col Matt G. Carpenter
May 1951-Unknown.
56th Logistics Group [1 November 1991-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-27 September 2002]
Col Clarence T. Lowry 1 November 1991
Col William E. Rupright August 1992-4 January 1994
Col Elizabeth A. Harrell 1 April 1994 464 (Major General)
Lt Col (later, Col) John D. Ladieu 17 October 1994 465
Lt Col Jeffery C. Davis 1 October 1995 466
Col Hugh C. Robinson 15 December 1995 467
464
[58 LG SO GK-001, 24 June 1993]
465
56 LSS SO SO-G-01, 26 January 1995
466
56 LSS SO GK-1, 4 October 1995
467
56 LSS SO SO-GK-2, 14 December 1995
125
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col (later, Col) Ron Lee 29 May 1998 468
Col Francis M. Bruno 25 April 2000 469 (Brigadier General)
Col Arthur B. Cameron III 19 October 2001 470 -27 September 2002
(Brigadier General)
56th Maintenance Group [27 September 2002-.]
Col Arthur B. Cameron III
27 September 2002 (Brigadier General)
Col John P. Harris 2 July 2003 471
Lt Col Geoffery S. Parkhurst 22 May 2006 472
Col Algene Fryer 6 July 2006 473
Col Geoffery S. Parkhurst 29 August 2008 474
Col Deborah J. Liddick 23 July 2010 475
Col Victor H. Mora 10 July 2012-. 476
310th Aircraft Maintenance Unit Load Crew from the
756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron loads an AIM-9 Missile.
468
56 FS SO GK-02, 28 May 1998
469
56 LG SO SO-GK-3, 10 April 2000
470
56 LG SO SO-GK-01, 4 October 2001
471
56 MOS SO 56 MOS-G-2003-02, 1 July 2003
472
56 MOS SO 56 MOS-G-01, 10 May 2006
473
56 MOS SO 56 MOS-G-04, 13 June 2006
474
56 MXG SO 56 MOS-G-06, 2 February 2007
475
56 MSG SO G-026, 22 July 2010
476
56 MSG SO G-025, 10 July 2012
126
56th Maintenance Operations Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as the 56th Station
Complement Squadron on 15 May 1943.
Activated on 20 May 1943.
Inactivated on 21 November 1945.
Disbanded on 8 October 1948.
Reconstituted, and redesignated
56th Logistics Support Squadron,
on 28 October 1991.
Activated 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 30 September 1993.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 477
Redesignated 56th Maintenance
Operations Squadron on 27 September 2002. 478
Honors.
Service Streamers.
World War II European-African-Middle Eastern Theater
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award:
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 479
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 480
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 481
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 482
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 483
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 484
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 485
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 486
477
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
478
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
479
AETC SO GA-18/1996
480
AETC SO GA-12/1998
481
AETC SO GA-9/2000
482
AETC SO GA-55/2004
483
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
484
AETC SO GA-045/2007
485
AETC SO G-054/2008
486
AETC SO G-071/2009
127
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 487
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 488
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 489
Assignments. Unknown, 20 May 1943-21 November 1945. 56th Logistics Group,
1 November 1991-30 September 1993. 56th Logistics (later, 56th Maintenance) Group,
1 April 1994-. 490
Stations. Atterbury Army Air Field, Indiana, 20 May 1943; Camp Patrick Henry,
Virginia, 10 August-5 September 1943; Wattisham, England, c.15 September 1943;
Hitcham, England, c.6 April 1944-21 November 1945. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida,
1 November 1991-30 September 1993. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 491
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 5 June 1995.
Blazon. Azure, in sinister base a globe Celeste land masses Veii, in dexter chief three
flight symbols ascending bendwise each issuing a contrail arcing to sinister base
of the globe Argent, all below an arc of nine mullets in sinister chief of the like;
all within a diminished bordure Or.
Attached below the disc a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border.
Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The flight symbols arcing from the globe denote the
unit's support of the Wing's mission of "Global Reach, Global Power "The stars represent
the fighter squadron directly supported by the unit.
Commanders.
56th Station Complement Squadron [20 May 1943-21 November 1945]
Unknown
Unknown
487
AETC SO G-025/2010
488
AETC SO G-086/2011
489
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
490
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
491
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
128
56th Logistics Support Squadron [1 November 1991-30 September 1993
1 April 1994-27 September 2002]
Maj Donald H. Campbell ca. 1 November 1991
Maj Paul E. Bryant ca. 24 July 1992
Capt James A. Hyde August 1993-30 September 1993
Lt Col Jeffrey C. Davis 1 April 1994 492
Lt Col Earlie O. Rose, Jr. 25 March 1995 493
Maj Mark E. Booth 19 April 1996 494
Maj Nancy A.P. Stinson 4 June 1998 495
Maj Eugene E. Trizinsky 5 July 2000 496
Maj Michael J. Costello 4 June 2002 497 -27 September 2002
56th Maintenance Operations Squadron [27 September 2002-.]
Maj Michael J. Costello 27 September 2002 498
Maj Mark L. Helleksen 30 June 2003 499
Maj Tanya R. Kubinec 13 May 2004 500
Maj Robert B. Copes 28 June 2005 501
Maj Kevin E. O'Connor 30 June 2006 502
Capt William H. Reynolds bef 28 August 2008 503
Maj Scott B. Dubsky 28 August 2008 504
Maj Christopher L. Chestnut 14 May 2010 505
Maj James E. Schieser 23 July 2012 506
492
[58 MSS SO SO-G-69, 19 June 1992]
493
56 FW SO SO-G-002, 21 March 1995
494
56 LG SO SO-GK-05, 18 April 1996
495
56 LSS SO SO-GK-3, 2 June 1998
496
56 LSS SO SO-GK 7, 27 June 2000
497
56 LSS SO SO-GK-02, 28 May 2002
498
56 MOS SO SO-GK-04, 26 September 2002
499
56 MOS 56 MOS-G-2003-03, 26 June 2003
500
56 MSO SO 56 MOS-G-6, 11 May 2004
501
56 MOS SO 56 MOS-G2005-02, 31 May 2005
502
56 MOS SO 56 MOS-G-02, 13 June 2006
503
56 MSS SO G-044, 26 August 2008
504
56 MSS SO G-044, 26 August 2008
505
56 MSG SO G-001, 6 May 2010
506
56 FW so g-029, 11 July 2012
129
56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Lineage.
Activated on 3 July 1972 prior to being
constituted 56th Organizational
Maintenance Squadron on 7 July 1972. 507
Inactivated on 15 July 1974. 508
Activated on 30 June 1975. 509
Redesignated 56th Aircraft Generation
Squadron on 15 June 1977.
Inactivated on 1 November 1991.
Redesignated 56th Aircraft Maintenance
Squadron on 17 July 2002.
Activated on 27 September 2002. 510
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Ceasefire [1972-1973]
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citation
Vietnam, [3 July] 1972-22 February 1973
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award:
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 511
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 512
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 513
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 514
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 515
507
PACAF SO G-107, 3 July 1972
508
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
509
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
510
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
511
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
512
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
513
DAF SO GB-275/1987
514
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
515
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
130
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 516
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 517
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 518
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 519
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 520
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 521
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 522
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 523
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 524
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross With Palm, 3 July 1972-28 January 1973.
Assignments. 56th Special Operations Wing, 3 July 1972-15 July 1974. 56th Tactical
Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training, 56th Fighter) Wing, 30 June 1975-1 November
1991. 56th Maintenance Group, 27 September 2002-.
Stations. Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 3 July 1972-15 July
1974. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-1 November 1991. Luke AFB,
Arizona, 27 September 2002-.
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 19 March 1979. Updated 30 January 2003.
Blazon. On a disc edged with a narrow yellow border, a background divided
horizontally into a medium blue sky with a stylized White cloud formation issuing from
sinister, above a green arced land area, overall issuing from base four arced vapor trails
ascending bendwise, attached in base and dispersing in the top of the disc, each ending in
a flight symbol, the colors from dexter to sinister yellow, white, blue and red.
Attached above the disc a white scroll edged yellow and inscribed "CAN DO" in
blue letters. Attached below the disc a blank white scroll edged yellow.
516
TAC SO GA-069/1991
517
AETC SO GA-55/2004
518
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
519
AETC SO GA-045/2007
520
AETC SO G-054/2008
521
AETC SO G-071/2009
522
AETC SO G-025/2010
523
AETC SO G-086/2011
524
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
131
Motto. Can Do.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The red cross represents strength within the medical
arena; it also symbolizes the" blanket" of medical commitment provided by unit
personnel to both flying and non-flying military members. The Caduceus, the symbolic
staff of a herald, is at the point of the futuristic aircraft. This position signifies that the
unit is ready to supply aeromedical support to aircrews, personnel and the environmental
elements of space. The earth signifies the worldwide commitment of peacekeeping and
the environmental protection of air, water and land.
Commanders.
56th Organizational Maintenance Squadron [3 July 1972-15 July 1974;
30 June 1975-15 June 1977]
Unknown 3 July 1972-November 1972
Lt Col Ray J. Lunnen, Jr. ca. November 1972
Lt Col Wayne R. Bratcher bef 31 March 1974
Maj Stanley D. Sebring 19 May 1974-15 July 1974. 525
Maj James L. Knoblauch 30 June 1975
Lt Col John M. Hagood bef 31 March 1976
Lt Col Robert J. Larison 1 June 1977-15 June 1977.
56th Aircraft Generation Squadron [15 June 1977-1 November 1991]
Lt Col Robert J. Larison 15 June 1977
Maj Billy A. Barrett 28 June 1977
Lt Col Robert J. Larison bef 30 September 1977
Lt Col Leroy W. Stutz 14 March 1980
Maj David F. Goodwin 15 July 1983 526
Lt Col Brian L. Osborn 29 August 1985
Maj Donald J. Wetekam 2 July 1987 527 (Lieutenant General)
Lt Col Clarence L. Campbell 3 August 1989 528
Lt Col Mark A. Taylor 19 September 1990-1 November 1991.
525
56 OMS SO G-001, 19 May 1974
526
56 CSG SO G-24, 15 July 1983
527
56 CSG SO G-56, 2 July 1987
528
56 MSS SO G-036, 2 August 1989
132
56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron [27 September 2002-.]
Lt Col Harry A. Truhn 27 September 2002 529
Maj John C. Mateer, IV 30 May 2003 530
Lt Col Walter J. Lindsley 24 June 2004 531
Lt Col Fredrick G. Plaumann 14 July 2006 532
Maj Brian P. Shawaryn 11 July 2008
Lt Col Matthew G. Pollock 21 September 2008 533
Maj (later, Lt Col) James D. Upchurch 23 August 2010 534
Maj Jason M. Mitchell 27 June 2012-. 535
62d Aircraft Maintenance Unit Crew Chief's change a worn tire.
529
56 AMXS SO 56 AMXS G-1, 27 September 2002
530
56 AMXS SO 56 AMXS - G-4, 21 May 2003
531
56 AMXS SO 56 AMXS - G-1, 21 June 2004
532
56 AMXS SO 56 AMXS G-3, 30 May 2006
533
56 AMXS SO G-048, 19 September 2008
534
56 MSG SO G-037, 17 November 2010
535
56 FW SO G-022, 2 July 2012
133
56th Component Maintenance Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 56th Armament and
Electronics Maintenance Squadron,
and activated, on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 536
Redesignated 56th Avionics Maintenance
Squadron on 1 January 1969.
Inactivated on 15 July 1974. 537
Activated on 30 June 1975. 538
Redesignated 56th Component Repair
Squadron on 15 June 1977.
Inactivated on 1 November 1991.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 539
Redesignated 56th Component Maintenance Squadron on 27 September 2002. 540
Avionics Test Bench circa 2002
536
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
537
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
538
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
539
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
540
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 July 2002
134
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 541
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 542
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 543
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 544
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 545
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 546
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 547
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citation
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 548
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 549
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award:
1 December 1970-30 November 1971 with Combat "V" Device 550
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 551
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 552
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 553
541
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
542
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
543
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
544
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
545
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
546
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
547
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
548
DAF SO GB-552/1970
549
DAF SO GB-352/1971
550
DAF SO GB-667, 28 September 1972
551
DAF SO GB-553/1973
552
DAF SO GB-600/1975
553
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
135
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 554
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 555
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 556
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 557
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 558
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 559
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 560
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 561
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 562
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 563
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 564
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 565
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 566
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 567
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 568
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 569
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross With Palm, 8 April [1967]-28 January 1973
554
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
555
DAF SO GB-275/1987
556
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
557
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
558
TAC SO GA-069/1991
559
AETC SO GA-18/1996
560
AETC SO GA-12/1998
561
AETC SO GA-9/2000
562
AETC SO GA-55/2004
563
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
564
AETC SO GA-045/2007
565
AETC SO G-054/2008 [Labeled as 56th Consolidated Maintenance Squadron]
566
AETC SO G-071/2009
567
AETC SO G-025/2010
568
AETC SO G-086/2011
569
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
136
Assignments. Pacific Air Forces, 16 March 1967. 56th Air Commando (later,
56th Special Operations) Wing 8 April 1967 570 -15 July 1974. 56th Tactical Fighter
(later, 56th Tactical Training, 56th Fighter) Wing, 30 June 1975-1 November 1991.
56th Logistics (later, 56th Maintenance) Group, 1 April 1994-. 571
Stations. Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 572 -15 July
1974. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-1 November 1991. Luke AFB,
Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 573
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 13 July 1978; modified on 5 May 2003.
Blazon. On a disc Celeste, beneath five mullets enarched in chief Or, a large mullet
Azure, thereon three flight symbols ascending palewise in chevron, the lower two
emitting contrails embowed to dexter and sinister Argent, the top center one emitting a
contrail flared out between the lower two Gules, all within a narrow border Black.
Attached below the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "56TH COMPONENT MAINTENANCE SQ" in Black letters
Motto. None.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The large star is representative of the
insignia appearing on all Air Force aircraft. The three flight symbols allude to the space
continuum, Air Force operations and the aggressiveness of component maintenance. The
five stars denote flight operations, personnel, offices, shops and support structure.
570
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
571
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
572
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
573
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
137
Commanders.
56th Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadron
[8 April 1967-1 January 1969]
Capt Robert N. Hancock 8 April 1967
Lt Col George A. Zukowski by 31 July 1967
Capt David E. Hall bef 10 December 1967
Capt Joseph S. Sansone by 31 March 1968
Capt Billy C. McNair 25 April 1968
Maj Charles E. McCartney, Jr. 16 March 1968-1 January 1969.
56th Avionics Maintenance Squadron [1 January 1969-15 July 1974
30 June 1975-15 June 1977]
Maj Charles E. McCartney, Jr. 1 January 1969
Capt Peter J. Larson by May 1969
Capt Glenn A. Perkins ca. July 1969
Capt Peter J. Larson November 1969
Lt Col Clifford D. Cork January 1970
Maj Philip M. Middleton 28 September 1970
Lt Col Lewis C. Mayo, Jr. 6 November 1970
Lt Col John W. Douglas by 4 November 1971
Capt William A. Carter August 1972
Lt Col Joseph B. Kata 10 September 1972
Capt John A. Long 10 September 1973
Maj Robert L. Proteau 12 October 1973
Capt Keith S. Simpson 11 June 1974-15 July 1974.
Lt Col Edgar L. Henley 30 June 1975
Lt Col William M. Stewart 1 September 1975
Lt Col Grey L. Carter 22 May 1977-15 June 1977.
56th Component Repair Squadron [15 June 1977-1 November 1991;
1 April 1994-27 September 2002]
Lt Col Grey L. Carter 15 June 1977
Lt Col Joseph E. Jefferson 14 February 1979
Lt Col David R. Olds 2 May 1980
Maj Robert E. Alfred, Jr. 10 July 1981
Lt Col James W. Miles 9 July 1982 574
Lt Col Samuel M. O. Prince 27 January 1983 575
Lt Col John G. Sellers 11 July 1985
574
56 CSG SO G-9, 9 July 1982
575
56 CSG SO G-3, 27 January 1983
138
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col Clarence L. Campbell, Jr. 29 May 1987
Maj Lisa B. Long 21 July 1989 576
Unknown January 1991-1 November 1991.
Lt Col Martha J. M. Kelley 1 April 1994 577
Maj (later, Lt Col) Deborah R. Sanders 3 June 1994 578
Maj Brett D. Haswell 19 September 1996 579
Lt Col Joseph A. Swillum 16 September 1998 580
Maj Richard S. Nelson 6 July 2000 581
Maj Douglas C. Cato 5 June 2001 582 -27 September 2002.
56th Component Maintenance Squadron [27 September 2002-.]
Lt Col Barry G. Miller 27 September 2002 583
Maj Bryan L. Harris 23 July 2004 584
Lt Col James R. Baumgardner 9 June 2006 585
Maj Brian P. Shawaryn 31 March 2008 586
Maj (later, Lt Col) Robert M. Brinker 11 July 2008 587
Maj (later, Lt Col) James A. Blackman 21 June 2010-. 588
576
56 MSS SO G-003, 17 July 1989
577
[58 MSS SO SO-G-72, 24 June 1992]
578
56 CRS SO GM-01, 3 June 1994
579
56 CRS SO GM-02, 18 September 1996
580
56 CRS SO GM-01, 10 August 1998
581
56 CRS SO GM-04, 28 June 2000
582
56 CRS SO0 GM-01, 25 May 2001
583
56 CMS SO 56 CRS G-4, 26 September 2002
584
56 CMS SO 56 CMS G-1, 23 July 2004
585
56 CMS SO 56 CMS GO 06-04, 9 June 2006
586
56 CMS SO GS 08-02, 31 March 2008
587
56 CMS SO GS 08-02, 31 March 2008
588
56 MSG SO G-014, 14 June 2010
139
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron
Lineage.
Designated Maintenance Squadron,
56th Maintenance and Supply Group,
on 28 July 1947.
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (22 October 1984) with the
56th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance
Squadron.
Constituted on 17 June 1957.
Activated on 8 September 1957.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on
1 January 1964. 589
Activated on 15 July 1974. 590
Inactivated on 30 June 1975.
Consolidated (22 October 1984) with the 56th Maintenance Squadron, Fighter, Jet.
Constituted on 14 June 1948.
Activated 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Maintenance Squadron on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated 6 February 1952.
Redesignated 56th Field Maintenance Squadron, and activated, on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 591
Inactivated on 15 July 1974. 592
Activated on 30 June 1975. 593
Redesignated 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron on 15 June 1977.
Redesignated 56th Maintenance Squadron on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 594
Redesignated 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron on 21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 595
589
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
590
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
591
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
592
PACAF SO GA-20, 17 June 1974
593
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
594
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
140
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 596
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 597
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 598
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 599
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 600
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 601
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 602
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citation
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 603
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 604
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Airmen sort 20mm Practice Ammunition.
595
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
596
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
597
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
598
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
599
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
600
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
601
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
602
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
603
DAF SO GB-552/1970
604
DAF SO GB-352/1971
141
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award:
1 December 1970-30 November 1971 with Combat "V" Device 605
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 606
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 607
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 608
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 609
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 610
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 611
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 612
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 613
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 614
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 615
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 616
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 617
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 618
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 619
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 620
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 621
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 622
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 623
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 624
605
DAF SO GB-667, 28 September 1972
606
DAF SO GB-553/1973
607
DAF SO GB-600/1975
608
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
609
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
610
DAF SO GB-275/1987
611
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
612
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
613
TAC SO GA-069/1991
614
AETC SO GA-18/1996
615
AETC SO GA-12/1998
616
AETC SO GA-9/2000
617
AETC SO GA-55/2004
618
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
619
AETC SO GA-045/2007
620
AETC SO G-054/2008
621
AETC SO G-071/2009
622
AETC SO G-025/2010
623
AETC SO G-086/2011
142
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross With Palm, 8 April 1967-28 January 1973.
Assignments. 56th Maintenance and Supply Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Maintenance and Supply Group 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Air
Commando (later, 56th Special Operations) Wing 8 April 1967 625 -30 June 1975.
56th Tactical Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training, 56th Fighter) Wing, 30 June
1975-1 November 1991. 56th Logistics Group, 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 626
56th Logistics (later, 56th Maintenance) Group, 1 April 1994-. 627
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. O'Hare International Airport, Illinois, 8 September 1957; K. I. Sawyer Air Force
Base, Michigan, 1 October 1959-1 January 1964. Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force
Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 628 -30 June 1975. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June
1975-4 January 1994. Luke AFB, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 629
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 27 October 1977.
Blazon. On a blue disc edged with a narrow yellow border, three yellow triangles with
points up, centered overall a blue triangle with point to base. Attached below the disc a
blank yellow scroll.
Motto. None.
Significance. The large triangle on the ultramarine blue background symbolizes the
integrity of the unit, working together towards a common goal. The three smaller Air
Force yellow triangles symbolize the three major functional areas of the squadron: AGE,
Maintenance, and Munitions. The ultramarine blue inverted triangle reminds each leader
that he/she is charged to serve the unit's Airmen, whether military or civilian. The Air
Force yellow border binds the unit \\ith a strong commitment to quality, teamwork, and
dedication to the mission.
624
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
625
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
626
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
627
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
628
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
629
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
143
Commanders.
Maintenance Squadron, 56th Maintenance and Supply Group
[15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Maintenance Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Maintenance Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
[8 September 1957-1 January 1964]
Unknown
Unknown
Maj (later, Lt Col) Douglas W. Mauldin bef 31 March 1963
Maj H.L. Bogdanski 26 April 1963
2d Lt Frederick J. Heyer 1 July 1963
Maj Paul A. Mickelsen 3 July 1963
56th Field Maintenance Squadron [8 April 1967-15 July 1974]
Maj Winton W. Wilson 8 April 1967 630
Capt Robert N. Hancock bef 31 July 1967
Maj Albert S. Mercer November 1967
Lt Col Richard J. Watson bef 18 December 1968
Unknown
Unknown
Lt Col Harry E. Lyndes, Jr. bef 30 June 1970
Lt Col John J. Byrne bef 30 September 1970
Lt Col William N. Foster bef 31 December 1970
Lt Col Joseph W. Norrbohm ca. 18 November 1971
Lt Col Robert B. Anderson ca. May 1972
Lt Col William R. Southerland bef 31 March 1973
Capt James F. Brady bef 10 September 1973
Maj Ronald W. Janssen 10 September 1973
Capt Robert L Walters 18 May 1974 631
Maj Ronald W. Janssen 20 June 1974 – 15 July 1974. 632
630
56 FMS SO 1, 8 April 1967
631
56 FMS SO G-1, 13 May 1974
632
56 FMS SO G-3, 20 June 1974
144
56th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron [15 July 1974-30 June 1975].
Lt Col Wayne R. Bratcher 15 July 1974
Lt Col William H. Hester 13 February 1975
Col William H. Lewis 25 March 1975-30 June 1975
56th Field Maintenance Squadron [30 June 1975-15 June 1977]
Lt Col Richard J. Pouloit 30 June 1975
Lt Col Robert G. Carter 1 March 1977-15 June 1977 633
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron [15 June 1977-1 November 1991
Lt Col Robert G. Carter 15 June 1977
Lt Col Billy A. Barrett 31 December 1977
Lt Col Richard M. Higbie 1 June 1979 634
Maj Michael O. Mullikin 10 July 1981
Maj John T. Stephens 5 May 1983 635
Lt Col Ferris O. Garrett, Jr. 5 August 1983 636
Lt Col James W. Geith 11 November 1983
Maj Devon L. Overmeyer, Jr. 5 December 1985
Maj Patrick M. Thayer 2 June 1986
Maj Donald J. Wetekam 10 July 1986 637 (Lieutenant General)
Maj Patrick M. Thayer 20 January 1987
Lt Col Peter R. Mooy 27 June 1988 638
Maj Donald H. Campbell 13 June 1990-1 November 1991. 639
56th Maintenance Squadron [1 November 1991-4 January 1994]
Lt Col Mark A. Taylor 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 640
633
56 CSG SO G-11, 11 March 1977
634
56 TFW SO G-25, 1 June 1979
635
56 CSG SO G-15, 5 May 1983
636
56 CSG SO G-30, 5 August 1983
637
56 CSG SO G-48, 10 July 1986
638
56 CSG SO G-61, 27 June 1988
639
56 MSS SO G-009, 11 June 1990
640
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
145
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron [1 April 1994-.
Maj Danny D. Brandt 1 April 1994 641
Maj Roy G. Lanier III 1 July 1994 642
Lt Col Danny R. Tipton 12 September 1996 643
Lt Col Dewey A. Holmes 18 September 1998 644
Lt Col Lorraine M. Souza 6 October 1999 645
Lt Col James L. Broome III 20 November 2001 646
Maj John C. Kubinec 1 April 2003 647
Lt Col Timothy S. Molnar 29 June 2005 648
Lt Co Benjamin L. Alley 6 July 2007 649
Lt Col Paul W. Sturges 30 June 2008 650
Maj Dominic P. Clementz 6 July 2010 651
Maj Jeffrey E. Campbell 22 June 2012 652
56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron's Sheet Metal Shop
641
[58 MSS SO SO-G-71, 24 June 1992]
642
56 EMS SO SO-GN-0002, 20 June 1994
643
56 EMS SO SO-GN-0001, 11 September 1996
644
56 EMS SO SO-GN-0001, 26 August 1998
645
56 EMS SO SO-GN-0001, 6 October 1999
646
56 EMS SO SO-GM-0001, 16 November 2001
647
56 EMS SO SO-GN-0006, 1 April 2003
648
56 EMS SO 56 EMS GS-04-02, 29 June 2005
649
56 MXG SO SO-GS-001, 7 July 2007
650
56 MSG SO G-027, 18 August 2008
651
56 MSG SO G-021, 6 July 2010
652
56 FW SO G-018, 26 June 2012
146
756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 756th Aircraft Maintenance
Squadron on 17 July 2002.
Activated on 27 September 2002. 653
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 654
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 655
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 656
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 657
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 658
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 659
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 660
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 661
Assignments. 56th Maintenance Group, 27 September 2002-. 662
Stations. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 27 September 2002-. 663
309th Aircraft Maintenance Unit members look for Foreign Object Damage (FOD) items.
653
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
654
AETC SO GA-55/2004
655
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
656
AETC SO GA-045/2007
657
AETC SO G-054/2008
658
AETC SO G-071/2009
659
AETC SO G-025/2010
660
AETC SO G-086/2011
661
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
662
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
663
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
147
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 20 May 2003
Blazon. On a disc per bend Sable and Azure, the sinister chief charged with a radiant
rayonne of the second, issuant from sinister chief three lightning flashes converging
bendwise sinister Or, overall and issuing from sinister flank the head of a Jaguar roaring
Tenne detailed, shaded and spotted of the first, teeth and muzzle Argent, all within a
narrow border Black.
Attached above the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed “JAGUARS” in Black letters.
Attached below the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "756TH AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE SQ" in Black letters.
Motto. Jaguars.
Significance. Ultramarine Blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The background indicates the
squadron’s day and night capabilities. The lightning flashes are symbolic of the
maintenance units, which provide sortie-capable aircraft in the required numbers - on
time, safely and in proper configuration to support the parent wings mission. The Jaguar
is the symbol of the unit, which possesses the aggressive and powerful nature of the great
cat.
Commanders.
756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron [27 September 2002-.]
Lt Col Douglas C. Cato, Jr. 27 September 2002 664
Maj Mark L. Helleksen 14 May 2004 665
Maj Kevin J. Traw 19 May 2006 666
Lt Col Benjamin L. Alley 1 July 2008 667
Maj (later, Lt Col) Timothy W. Trimmell 28 June 2010 668
Lt Col James Upchurch 28 June 2012 669
664
756 AMXS SO 756 AMXS-1, 27 September 2002
665
756 AMXS SO 756 AMXS-G04-1, 23 April 2004
666
756 AMXS SO 756 AMXS-G06-1, 28 April 2006
667
756 AMXS SO 756 AMXS-G08-2, 1 July 2008
668
56 MSG SO G-018, 25 June 2010
669
56 MSG SO G-019, 26 June 2012
148
56th Mission Support Group
Lineage.
Established as 56th Airdrome Group on 28 July 1947.
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Col Nathan C. Mooney II
Consolidated (1 October 1984) with the 56th Air Base Group, which was established on
14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Activated on 28 December 1960. 670
Organized on 1 February 1961.
Redesignated 56th Combat Support Group on 1 April 1963.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 1 January 1964. 671
Activated on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 672
Redesignated 56th Support Group on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 673
670
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960
671
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
672
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
673
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
149
Activated on 1 April 1994. 674
Redesignated 56th Mission Support Group on 27 September 2002. 675
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 676
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 677
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 678
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 679
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 680
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 681
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 682
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 683
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 684
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973
674
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
675
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
676
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
677
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
678
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
679
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
680
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
681
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
682
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
683
DAF SO GB-552/1970
684
DAF SO GB-352/1971
150
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 June 1970-31 May 1971 with Combat "V" Device 685
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 686
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 687
24 January 1975-2 May 1975 with Combat "V" Device 688
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 689
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 690
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 691
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 692
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 693
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 694
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 695
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 696
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 697
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 698
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 699
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 700
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 701
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 702
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 703
685
DAF SO GB-703, 9 November 1971
686
DAF SO GB-553/1973
687
DAF SO GB-600/1975
688
USAF SO GB-623, 10 August 1976
689
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
690
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
691
DAF SO GB-275/1987
692
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
693
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
694
TAC SO GA-069/1991
695
AETC SO GA-18/1996
696
AETC SO GA-12/1998
697
AETC SO GA-9/2000
698
AETC SO GA-55/2004
699
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
700
AETC SO GA-045/2007
701
AETC SO G-054/2008
702
AETC SO G-071/2009
151
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 704
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 705
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 8 April 1967-28 January 1973
PAST AND PRESENT UNITS ASSIGNED
Currently Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Civil Engineer Squadron 1 April 1994. 706
56th Communications Squadron 1 April 1994 707
56th Contracting Squadron 1 April 1994 708
56th Logistics Readiness Squadron 1 August 2002 709
56th Services Squadron
later, Force Support Squadron 1 April 1994 710
56th Security Police Squadron
later, 56th Security Forces Squadron 1 April 1994. 711
Previously Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
Squadron "A," 56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Communications Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952;
1 October 1991-4 January 1994. 712
703
AETC SO G-025/2010
704
AETC SO G-086/2011
705
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
706
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
707
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
708
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
709
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
710
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-09-9, 26 February 2009
711
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
712
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
152
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
Squadron "B," 56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Air Police Squadron, Fighter, Jet
later, 56th Air Police Squadron
later, 56th Security Police Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952;
15 February 1963-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-4 January 1994. 713
Squadron "C," 56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Installations Squadron, Fighter, Jet
later, 56th Installations Squadron,
later, 56th Civil Engineering Squadron,
later, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952;
1 February 1961 714 -1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-4 January 1994. 715
Squadron "D," 56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948
56th Food Service Squadron, Fighter, Jet
later 56th Food Service Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952
56th Services Squadron
later, 56th Morale, Welfare, Recreation
and Services Squadron 8 April 1967 716 -28 February 1975;
30 June 1975-4 January 1994 717
Squadron "E," 56th Airdrome Group 15 August 1947-1 August 1948
56th Motor Vehicle Squadron, Fighter, Jet
later, 56th Motor Vehicle Squadron 1 August 1948-6 February 1952
56th Transportation Squadron 1 February 1961-1 April 1963
8 April 1967 718 -30 June 1975
Squadron "F," 56th Airdrome Group
March 1948-Unknown
4th Finance Disbursing Unit, Fighter, Jet 1 August 1948-1 November 1949
56th Air Base Squadron 1 February 1961 719 -1 January 1964.
713
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
714
ADC GO #192, 28 December 1960
715
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
716
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
717
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
718
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
719
ADC GO #192, 28 December 1960
153
Previously Assigned Units (Continued) Time Frame Assigned
56th Base Service Squadron, Fighter, Jet,
later, 56th Mission Support Squadron 1 August 1948-13 March 1950;
15 August 1988-4 January 1994 720 ;
1 April 1994 721 -26 February 2009.
56th Combat Support Squadron (Avon Park, Florida)
later, 56th Support Squadron (Avon Park, Florida)
30 June 1975-4 January 1994. 722
56th Comptroller Squadron [15 August 1988]-1 November 1991.
56th Headquarters Squadron
1 February 1961-Unknown
56th Morale, Welfare and Recreation
Squadron 1 October 1991-4 September 1992. 723
56th Supply Squadron 1 February 1961-1 April 1963.
56th Support Squadron 1 April 1994-1 October 1994 724
56th Transportation Squadron 1 February 1961-
32d Crash-Rescue Boat Flight attached 14 July 1951-Unknown 725
Assignments. 56th Fighter Wing on 15 August 1947-1 August 1948. 56th Fighter (later,
56th Fighter-Interceptor) Wing on 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Fighter Wing
(Air Defense), 1 February 1961-1 January 1964. 56th Air Commando (later, 56th Special
Operations,) Wing, 8 April 1967-Unknown. Tactical Air Command, Unknown-30 June
1975. 56th Tactical Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training, 56th Fighter) Wing 30 June
1975-4 January 1994. 726 56th Fighter Wing 1 April 1994-. 727
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-1 August
1948; 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan,
1 February 1961-1 January 1964. Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand,
8 April 1967-30 June 1975; MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975 728 -4 January
1994. 729 Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 730
720
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
721
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-09-9, 26 February 2009
722
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
723
TAC SO GB-001, 1 October 1991; ACC SO GB-124, 21 August 1992
724
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-49, 30 June 1994
725
56 FIW GO 22, 14 July 1951
726
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
727
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
728
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
729
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
154
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Emblem approved 19 April 1967. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Blazon. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.] Tenne
on a chevron azure fimbriated or two lightning flashes chevronwise of the last. [Source:
1967 Emblem Approval Letter.].
Motto. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Cave Tonitrum (Beware of the Thunderbolt). [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Significance. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
The emblem is symbolic of the Wing. The heraldic chevron, represents support and
signifies the Wing's support of our nation's quest for peace. The blue of the chevron
represents the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. The lightning bolt
symbolizes speed and aggressiveness with which the unit performs. The color of the
shield represents the Air Corps and commemorates the service of the 56th Fighter Group,
whose honors and history the Wing inherits. The emblem bears the Air Force colors of
golden yellow and ultramarine blue. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Commanders.
56th Airdrome Group [15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Maj James R. Woods ca. 15 August 1947
Lt Col Irwin H. Dregne bef 30 September 1947 [Ace]
Lt Col David T. McKnight bef 30 June 1948-1 August 1948
56th Air Base Group [1 August 1948-6 February 1952;
1 February 1961-1 April 1963]
Lt Col David T. McKnight 1 August 1948
Lt Col Burton E. McKenzie bef 30 June 1949
Lt Col Robert N. Lacy bef 31 December 1949
Maj Roy L. Bowlin bef 1 January 1950
Lt Col William W. Ingehut bef 1 September 1950
Lt Col George J. Ola 21 December 1950
Col Graeme S. Bond bef 31 March 1951
Col Blake C. Miller
27 August 1951-Unknown
Unknown 1 February 1961
Col Daniel P. McLean bef 28 March 1963
730
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
155
56th Combat Support Group [1 April 1963-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-1 November 1991
Col Daniel P. McLean
1 April 1963 - Unknown
Col Frank A. Sheehan 8 April 1967 731
Lt Col Lewis C. Hughes 20 May 1967 732
Col Benjamin F. De Haan 2 July 1967 733
Col Thomas R. Owens bef 18 December 1968
Col Thomas B. Carter 13 June 1969
Col Thomas L Carroll 1 June 1970
Col James D. Pearson bef 30 September 1971
Lt Col William E. Flanigin bef 18 July 1972
Col Edward H. Aune 18 July 1972
Col John R. Boyd bef 31 December 1972
Col John.L. Webb 1 April 1973
Col Robert G. Rogers 1 April 1974
Col Howard T. Nuckels 15 March 1975
Col David G. Harston bef 25 August 1975
Col William E. Adams 25 August 1975
Unknown
Unknown
Col George E. Wehling 1 March 1979
Col Milton A. Steadman 27 February 1981
Col Edward A. Zompa 11 May 1984 734
Col David L. Wagner 14 November 1984
Col Jack P. Cross 17 June 1987
Col Robert J. Smith 18 April 1988 735
Col Jack P. Cross bef 7 July 1988
Col Robert J. Smith 7 July 1988 736
Col George G. Giddens 25 July 1989 737
Col Stig Egede Nissen August 1991-1 November 1991.
731
56 CSG SO G-05, 8 April 1967
732
56 CSG SO G-07, 20 May 1967
733
56 CSG SO G-10, 2 July 1967
734
9 AF SO G-13, 9 May 1984
735
56 CSG SO G-48, 19 April 1988
736
56 CSG SO G-63, 8 July 1988
737
56 MSS SO G-034, 24 July 1989
156
56th Support Group [1 November 1991-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-27 September 2002]
Col Stig Egede Nissen 1 November 1991
Col Charles T. Ohlinger III August 1992
Col Larry A. Timmerman 18 August 1993-4 January 1994
Col Samuel E Young, Jr. 1 April 1994 738
Col Elizabeth A. Harrell 17 October 1994 739 (Major General)
Vacant 13 June 1995
Col Rodney E. Gibson 9 August 1995 740
Lt Col (later, Col) Norman L. Watson 7 August 1996 741
Lt Col (later, Col) Michael Hazen 15 June 1998 742
Col Robert L. Worley, Jr. 18 May 2000 743 -27 September 2002.
56th Mission Support Group [27 September 2002-.]
Col Michael J. Maloney 27 September 2002 744
Col Keith E. Smith 7 June 2004 745
Col Ronald J. Mozzillo 10 July 2006 746
Col Andre K. Curry 2 May 2008 747
Col Philippe R. Darcy 18 June 2010 748
Col Nathan C. Mooney II 9 July 2012-. 749
738
[832 MSS SO SO-G-8, 27 December 1990 and 58 MSS SO SO-G-1, 1 October 1991]
739
56 FW SO SO-GR-001, 21 October 1994
740
56 FW SO SO-GR-004, 24 July 1995
741
56 FW SO SO-GR-001, 31 July 1996
742
56 FS SO SO-GR-001, 28 May 1998
743
56 FW SO SO-GR-003, 17 May 2000
744
56 MSG SO MSG G-2, 24 September 2002
745
56 MSS SO 56 MSS G-2 2004, 3 June 2004
746
56 MSG SO MSG-06-05, 30 June 2006
747
56 MSS SO G-015, 2 May 2008
748
56 MSG SO G-011, 9 June 2010
749
56 FW SO G-021, 9 July 2012
157
56th Civil Engineer Squadron
Lineage.
Designated Squadron "C," 56th Airdrome
Group on 28 July 1947.
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (3 October 1984) with
56th Installations Squadron,
Fighter, Jet, which was constituted
on 14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Installations Squadron
on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated 6 February 1952.
Redesignated 56th Civil Engineering Squadron, and activated, on 28 December 1960. 750
Organized on 1 February 1961.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 1 January 1964. 751
Activated on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 752
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 753
Redesignated 56th Civil Engineer Squadron on 21 March 1994.
Activated 1 April 1994. 754
Fire Department practice putting out an aircraft fire.
750
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960
751
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
752
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
753
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
754
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
158
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 755
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 756
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970]
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971]
Commando Hunt VI [1971]
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972]
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973]
Commando Hunt VI [1971]
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972]
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973]
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 757
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 758
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973
Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards
1 June 1970-31 May 1971 with Combat "V" Device 759
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 760
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 761
24 January-2 May 1975 with Combat "V" Device 762
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 763
755
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
756
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
757
DAF SO GB-552/1970
758
DAF SO GB-352/1971
759
DAF SO GB-703, 9 November 1971
760
DAF SO GB-553/1973
761
DAF SO GB-600/1975
762
USAF SO GB-623, 10 August 1976
763
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
159
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 October 1979-30 September 1980 764
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 765
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 766
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 767
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 768
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 769
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 770
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 771
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 772
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 773
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 774
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 775
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 776
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 777
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 778
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 779
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 780
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 8 April 1967-28 January 1973
764
DAF SO GB-122/1982
765
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
766
DAF SO GB-275/1987
767
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
768
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
769
TAC SO GA-069/1991
770
AETC SO GA-18/1996
771
AETC SO GA-12/1998
772
AETC SO GA-9/2000
773
AETC SO GA-55/2004
774
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
775
AETC SO GA-045/2007
776
AETC SO G-054/2008
777
AETC SO G-071/2009
778
AETC SO G-025/2010
779
AETC SO G-086/2011
780
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
160
Assignments. 56th Airdrome Group, 15 August 1947-31 July 1948. 56th Air Base
Group, 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Air Base (later, 56th Combat Support)
Group, 1 February 1961-1 January 1964. 56th Combat Support (later, 56th Support)
Group, 8 April 1967-4 January 1994. 781 56th Support (later, 56th Mission Support)
Group on 1 April 1994-. 782
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 February 1961-1 January 1964. Nakhon
Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 783 -30 June 1975; MacDill
Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. 784 Luke Air Force Base, Arizona,
1 April 1994-. 785
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 30 October 2003
Blazon. On a disc per bend Or and Azure, emerging in front of a keystone outlined
Tenné, voided of the field, an armed knight in prospect Proper garnished Sable, plumed
Gules, on sinister arm a shield blazoned: “Tenné a chevron Azure, edged Or, thereon a
lightning flash chevron-wise of the last, all within a narrow border Blue.
Attached above the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Blue border and
inscribed “DRAGONSLAYERS” in Blue letters.
Attached below the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Blue border and
inscribed "56TH CIVIL ENGINEER SQ" in Blue letters.
Motto. Dragonslayers.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The knight with sword down
represents the support provided by the Squadron to its parent wing by preparing it for
battle. The shield is reminiscent of the coat of arms of the parent wing and reflects the
unit’s contribution to a worldwide defense deployment capability.
781
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
782
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
783
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
784
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
785
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
161
Commanders.
Squadron "C," 56th Airdrome Group [15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown 15 August 1947-1 August 1948
56th Installations Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown 1 August 1948-20 January 1950
56th Installations Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952]
Unknown 20 January 1950
Lt Col Richard J. Coffee bef 26 March 1951
Capt Tom E. LeRetilley August 1951
56th Civil Engineering Squadron [1 February 1961-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-4 January 1994]
Lt Col D.C. Oldershaw 1 February 1961
Capt Wayne V. Jorgensen July 1961
Maj James F. Klentzman 4 December 1961
Lt Col H.W. Pollock bef 31 March 1962-
aft 30 September 1963
Unknown 1 October 1963-1 January 1964.
Maj Robert K. Jones 8 April 1967
Lt Col Sydney E. Key 26 April 1967 786
Maj Edmund H. Keranen bef 20 November 1967
Lt Col Sydney E. Key bef 6 February 1968
Lt Col John G. Rice bef 31 March 1968
Maj Joe G. Winslow bef 17 November 1968
Lt Col George R. Grube bef 31 March 1969
Lt Col Ray C. Rawlston bef 31 December 1969
Lt Col Harry H. Magazu bef 30 June 1970
Lt Col John P. Turner bef 30 September 1970
Maj Paul M. Richter bef 30 September 1971
Lt Col Aaron A. Powers, Jr. bef 30 June 1972
Maj Milton D. Rindahl bef 31 March 1973
Lt Col Terrance E. Hobbs 13 July 1973
Lt Col Ernest E. Walkup 15 July 1974
Lt Col Donald L. Spurrier bef 30 June 1975
Lt Col Vincent E. DelVecchio 30 June 1975
Lt Col David P. Gibbs 24 June 1977
Col Walter F. Tatum, Jr. 2 October 1978
786
56 CES SO 11, 1967
162
Commanders. (Continued)
Col Earle R. Cole 11 July 1983 787
Col Robert L. Bell 12 June 1985
Lt Col Gary C. Gibson 16 March 1988 788
Col Walter L. Gray 15 August 1988 789
Lt Col Scott L. Smith 10 October 1990
Lt Col Jeffrey L. Tyley July 1992-4 January 1994
56th Civil Engineer Squadron [1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Steven A. Bitler 1 April 1994 790
Lt Col Raymond E. Dinsmore 19 June 1995 791
Maj Joseph Lacatus 2 June 1997 792
Lt Col Steven E. Heorn 30 July 1997 793
Lt Col David C. Brewer 13 July 1999 794
Lt Col John R. Lohr 3 July 2001 795
Lt col John P. Dewine 6 June 2003 796
Lt Col Douglas M. Hammer 17 June 2005 797
Lt Col Anthony R. Ramage 11 June 2007 798
Lt Col John D. Thomas 2 July 2009 799
Lt Col Chad B. Bondurant 8 July 2011-. 800
787
56 CSG SO G-22, 11 July 1983
788
56 CSG SO G-42, 16 March 1988
789
56 CSG SO G-79, 12 August 1988
790
[58 MSS SO SO-G-48, 6 February 1992]
791
56 CES SO GP-002, ca. 20 June 1995
792
56 CES SO G-001, 5 June 1997
793
56 CES SO SO-GP-02, ca. 30 July 1997
794
56 CES SO G-001, 13 July 1999
795
56 CES SO G-004, 28 June 2001
796
56 CES SO 56 CES G-1, 6 June 2003
797
56 CES SO 56 CES G-1, 17 June 2005
798
56 MSG SO MSG-07-06, 5 June 2007
799
56MSG SO G-040, 16 July 2009
800
56 FSS SO G-022, 8 July 2011
163
56th Contracting Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 56th Contracting Squadron
on 28 October 1991.
Activated on 1 November 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 801
Activated on 1 April 1994. 802
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 803
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 804
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 805
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 806
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 807
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 808
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 809
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 810
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 811
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 812
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 813
801
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
802
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
803
AETC SO GA-18/1996
804
AETC SO GA-12/1998
805
AETC SO GA-9/2000
806
AETC SO GA-55/2004
807
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
808
AETC SO GA-045/2007
809
AETC SO G-054/2008
810
AETC SO G-071/2009
811
AETC SO G-025/2010
812
AETC SO G-086/2011
813
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
164
Assignments. 56th Logistics Group on 1 November 1991-4 January 1994 814 and 1 April
1994 815 -27 September 2002. 56th Mission Support Group on 27 September 2002-. 816
Stations. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 1 November 1991-4 January 1994. 817
Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 818
Luke
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 22 June 2001
Blazon. On a disc Azure, a bezant enhanced surmounted by a bald eagle stooping
Brown, garnished Argent, eyed and armed Sable, unfurled from its dexter talon a
parchment Proper, garnished with a certification ribbon of the fourth, all within a
diminished border Black.
Attached above the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "56TH CONTRACTING SQ" in Black letters.
Attached below the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "WE MAKE IT HAPPEN" in Black letters.
Motto. We Make It Happen.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The eagle symbolizes the Air Force,
holding the contract parchment representing the unit’s mission of managing the formation
of legal agreements in support of the parent wing.
814
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
815
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
816
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
817
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
818
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
165
Commanders.
56th Contracting Squadron [1 November 1991-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Don Drenkhan ca. 1 November 1991-4 January 1994
Maj Gerald H. Jacques 1 April 1994 819
Maj Brenda J. Bobbitt 10 July 1996 820
Capt Anthony K. McGraw bef 24 November 1998
Maj Karen L. Bruce 24 November 1998 821
Lt Col Jose R. Solis, Jr. 12 July 2001 822
Maj Richard E. Wells 23 July 2004 823
Maj Thomas D. Ficklin 7 July 2006 824
Lt Col Rick C. Denmann 22 January 2007 825
Maj (later, Lt Col) Thomas D. Ficklin 30 July 2007 826
Lt Col Tommy M. Gates III 1 July 2009 827
Maj Quoc-Nam Nguyen 18 June 2012 828
819
[58 FW SO n.n., ca. 30 November 1993]
820
56 CONS SO SO-GX-0001, ca. 8 July 1996
821
56 CONS SO GO-0009, 12 November 1998
822
56 CONS SO SO-GO-01, 12 July 2001
823
56 MSS SO 56 CONS G-1 2004, 1 July 2004
824
56 MSG SO MSG-06-04, 19 June 2006
825
56 MSG SO MSG-07-02, 27 December 2006
826
56 MSG SO MSG-06-04, 19 June 2006
827
56 MSG SO G-049, 24 September 2009
828
56 FW SO G-020, 28 June 2012
166
56th Communications Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted as 56th Communications
Squadron, Fighter, Jet, on 14 June
1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Communications
Squadron on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Activated on 1 October 1991.
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 829
Activated 1 April 1994. 830
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 831
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 832
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 833
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 834
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 835
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 836
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 837
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 838
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 839
829
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
830
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
831
AETC SO GA-18/1996
832
AETC SO GA-12/1998
833
AETC SO GA-9/2000
834
AETC SO GA-55/2004
835
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
836
AETC SO GA-045/2007
837
AETC SO G-054/2008
838
AETC SO G-071/2009
839
AETC SO G-025/2010
167
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 840
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 841
Assignments. 56th Airdrome Group, 14 June 1948-31 July 1948. 56th Air Base Group,
1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Combat Support (later, 56th Support) Group,
1 October 1991-1 January 1994. 56th Support (later, 56th Mission Support) Group on
1 April 1994-. 842
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 1 August 1948-6 February
1952. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 1 October 1991-4 January 1994. Luke Air Force
Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 843
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 8 May 1998
Blazon. On a disc Azure, four lightning flashes issuant from chief pile wise Or,
surmounted by a bat, wings displayed Proper, eyes Gules, all within a narrow border
Black.
Attached above the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "56th COMMUNICATIONS SQ" in Black letters.
Attached below the disc, a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border and
inscribed "LOQUIMINI TONITRUM" in Black letters.
Motto. Loquimini Tonitrum. [Speak the Thunder]
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The four lightning flashes signify the
four operational environments: land, sea, air and space. They also represent all forms of
communication, as depicted on the Air Force Communications and Information
occupational badge. The bat, noted for its sophisticated communication system,
symbolizes the importance of communications to the Air Force mission. All elements
combined reinforce the motto, Loquimini Tonitrum,” translated as “Speak the Thunder.”
840
AETC SO G-086/2011
841
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
842
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
843
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
168
Commanders.
56th Communications Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown
Unknown
56th Communications Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952;
1 October 1991-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-.]
Unknown
Unknown
Col Robert Popp by December 1991
Col Doreen M. Wolf January 1992
Lt Col John C. Goodman 18 June 1992-4 January 1994
Lt Col Stanley D. Howard 1 April 1994 844
Maj Robert J. Steele 4 August 1994 845
Lt Col Wilson D. Crafton 1 July 1997 846
Lt Col Jeffrey A. Corvey 2 June 1999 847
Lt Col Frank Knickerbocker, IV 12 June 2001 848
Lt Col Eric J. Pierce 8 July 2003 849
Lt Col Timothy J. Pearson 9 June 2005 850
Maj Rashone J. Tate 5 June 2007 851
Lt Col David Hillman 22 June 2009 852
Maj Zachary S. Warakomski 8 April 2011 853
844
[58 MSS SO SO-G-7, 1 October 1991]
845
56 CS SO SO-GQ-2, 4 August 1994
846
56 CS SO SO-G-9701, ca. 30 June 1997
847
56 CS SO GS-002, 27 April 1999
848
56 CS SO OS-TQ-002, 7 May 2001
849
56 CS SO 56 CS-G-2003-1, 7 July 2003
850
56 CS SO 56 CS GS-01, 8 June 2005
851
56 MSG SO MSG-07-06, 5 June 2007
852
56 MSG SO G-027, 22 June 2009
853
56 MSG SO G-004, 8 April 2011
169
56th Force Support Squadron
Lineage.
Designated Squadron "D," 56th Airdrome
Group, on 27 July 1947. 854
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (10 October 1984) with the
56th Food Service Squadron.
Constituted as 56th Food Service
Squadron, Fighter, Jet, on 14 June
1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Food Service Squadron
on 20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Consolidated (10 October 1984) with the 56th Services Squadron.
Constituted, and activated, on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 855
Inactivated on 28 February 1975.
Activated on 30 June 1975. 856
Redesignated 56th Morale, Welfare, Recreation and Services Squadron
on 4 September 1992. 857
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 858
Redesignated 56th Services Squadron on 21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 859
Redesignated 56th Forces Support Squadron on 26 February 2009. 860
854
56 FW GO-1, ca. 15 August 1947
855
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
856
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975
857
ACC SO GB-124, 21 August 1992
858
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
859
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
860
AETC SO G-09-9, 26 February 2009
170
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 861
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 862
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 863
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 864
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 865
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 866
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 867
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 868
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 869
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 June 1970-31 May 1971 with Combat "V" Device 870
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 871
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 872
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 873
861
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
862
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
863
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
864
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
865
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
866
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
867
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
868
DAF SO GB-552/1970
869
DAF SO GB-352/1971
870
DAF SO GB-703, 9 November 1971
871
DAF SO GB-553/1973
872
DAF SO GB-600/1975
171
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 874
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 875
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 876
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 877
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 878
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 879
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 880
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 881
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 882
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 883
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 884
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 885
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 886
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 887
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 888
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: 8 April 1967-28 January 1973.
873
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
874
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
875
DAF SO GB-275/1987
876
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
877
TAC SO GA-069/1991
878
AETC SO GA-18/1996
879
AETC SO GA-12/1998
880
AETC SO GA-9/2000
881
AETC SO GA-55/2004
882
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
883
AETC SO GA-045/2007
884
AETC SO G-054/2008
885
AETC SO G-071/2009
886
AETC SO G-025/2010
887
AETC SO G-086/2011
888
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
172
Assignments. 56th Airdrome Group 27 July 1947-1 August 1948. 56th Air Base Group,
1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Combat Support 8 April 1967 889 -28 February
1975. 56th Combat Support (later, 56th Support) Group 30 June 1975-4 January 1994 890 ;
56th Support (later, 56th Mission Support) Group 1 April 1994-. 891
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. Nakhon Phanon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 892 -28 February
1975. MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. 893 Luke Air Force
Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 894
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 11 March 2003
Blazon. On a disc per fess Azure and Vert, in base a garland of wheat crescent the stems
in saltire Or, below a bull reguardant Gules, in sinister chief a mullet counterchanged of
the third and fourth, all within a narrow border Yellow.
Attached above the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "CRADLE TO GRAVE " in Yellow letters.
Attached below the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "56TH FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON" in Yellow letters.
Motto. CRADLE TO GRAVE.
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The garland of wheat symbolizes the
unit's largest focus, food service. The bull signifies strength and readiness. The points of
the star stand for the five core areas of the 56th Force Support Squadron’s mission;
Manpower and Personnel (Military and Civilian), Airmen and Family Services
(Dependent Care), Sustainment Services (Food, Fitness, Lodging), Force Development
(Education and Training), and Community Services (Airmen Regeneration).
889
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
890
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
891
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
892
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
893
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
894
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
173
Commanders.
Squadron "D,” 56th Airdrome Group [15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Food Service Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown 1 August 1948
Capt Edward C. Unger bef 30 November 1948
Unknown Unknown-20 January 1950.
56th Food Service Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952]
Unknown 20 January 1950-6 February 1952.
56th Services Squadron [8 April 1967-28 February 1975;
30 June 1975-1 September 1992]
Maj Donald D. Trimble 8 April 1967
Capt Richard J. Tessier bef 30 September 1967
Capt James P. Davison bef 31 December 1967
Unknown
Unknown-
Capt James F. Wise bef 31 March 1969
Capt Charles D. McKenzie bef 31 December 1969
Maj Albert N. Turner bef 30 September 1970
Maj Byron L. Carroll bef 31 December 1970
Lt Col Joseph J. O'Hara bef 31 March 1971
Capt Allen B. Alexander, Jr. bef 30 September 1971
Capt Phillip T. Shealy bef 31 December 1972
Capt Rodney P. Harrison 28 September 1973
Capt W. R. Guevara 5 March 1974
Maj Lewis A. Elam bef 31 March 1974
Capt Thomas S. Summers 11 June 1974
Maj Norwood. J. Meche 6 September 1974
Capt Thomas S. Summers bef 31 December 1974-28 February 1975.
Lt Col D. W. Ottoway 30 June 1975
Maj Norwood. J. Meche 15 August 1975 895
Lt Col David B. Bates 19 July 1977
Capt Donald N. Jones 1 March 1979
Lt Col David B. Bates 6 July 1979
Capt Donald B. Jones 14 May 1980
Maj (later, Lt Col) Phillip T. Shealy 1 July 1980
Maj Harold H. Holden 18 May 1984 896
1st Lt Alvin J. Heggem 5 June 1986
895
56 CSG SO G-5, 7 October 1975
896
56 CSG G-7, 18 May 1984
174
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col Thomas B. Fletcher 9 July 1986 897
Maj Sharon Hines-Marquis 27 February 1990 898
Maj John C. McClelland 5 September 1991-1 September 1992
56th Morale, Welfare, Recreation and Services Squadron [1 September 1992-
4 January 1994.
Maj John C. McClelland 1 September 1992
Lt Col Warren J. Brookhart June 1993-4 January 1994.
56th Services Squadron [1 April 1994-26 February 2009]
Lt Col Jack L. Baily, Jr. 1 April 1994 899
Maj Lynne D. Bitler 5 May 1994 900
Lt Col Claude C. Braley 10 June 1994 901
Lt Col Ron L. Winkel 7 June 1996 902
Maj Anne F. Fitch 24 June 1999 903
Lt Col Patricia M. Carpenter 11 June 2001 904
Lt Col Alan C. Gnann 15 July 2003 905
Lt Col Dane D. Matthew 23 June 2005 906
Maj William M.G. Manley 23 July 2007 907 -26 February 2009.
56th Forces Support Squadron [26 February 2009-.]
Maj William M.G. Manley 26 February 2009
Maj Carol Gordon 27 February 2009 908
Maj (later, Lt Col) Rodney J. Nichols 11 June 2009 909
Maj (later, Lt Col) Timothy A. Farr 6 July 2011 910
897
56 CSG SO G-47, 8 July 1986
898
56 MSS SO G-003, 23 February 1990
899
58 MSS SO SO-GS-001, 6 October 1992
900
56 SVS SO SO-GS-003, 18 May 1994
901
56 SVS SO SO-GS-005, 13 June 1994
902
56 SG, SO SO-GS-003, 5 June 1996
903
56 FW SO GS-99-01, 23 June 1999
904
56 FW SO GS-01-02, 11 June 2001
905
56 SVS SO 56 SVS G-2003-1, 8 July 2003
906
56 SVS SO 56 SVS-G-05-01, 8 June 2005
907
56 MSG SO MSG-07-11, 5 June 2007
908
56 MSG SO G-025, 24 April 2009
909
56 FSS SO G-032, 10 June 2009
175
56th Logistics Readiness Squadron
Lineage.
Designated Supply Squadron,
56th Maintenance and Supply
Group on 28 July 1947.
Organized on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (8 February 1988) with
56th Supply Squadron, Fighter,
Jet, which was constituted on
14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Supply Squadron on
20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Activated on 28 December 1960. 911
Organized on 1 February 1961.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 1 January 1964. 912
Activated 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 913
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 914
Activated on 1 April 1994. 915
Redesignated 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron on 1 August 2002. 916
910
56 MDG SO G-019, 6 July 2011
911
AFOMO 536m, 28 December 1960
912
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
913
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
914
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
915
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
916
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
176
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 917
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 918
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 919
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 920
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 921
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 922
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 923
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 924
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 925
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 December 1970-30 November 1971 with Combat "V" Device 926
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 927
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 928
24 January 1975-2 May 1975 with Combat "V" Device 929
917
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
918
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
919
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
920
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
921
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
922
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
923
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
924
DAF SO GB-552/1970
925
DAF SO GB-352/1971
926
DAF SO GB-667, 28 September 1972
927
DAF SO GB-553/1973
928
DAF SO GB-600/1975
177
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 930
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 931
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 932
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 933
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 934
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 935
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 936
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 937
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 938
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 939
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 940
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 941
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 942
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 943
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 944
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 945
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 946
929
USAF SO GB-623, 10 August 1976
930
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
931
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
932
DAF SO GB-275/1987
933
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
934
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
935
TAC SO GA-069/1991
936
AETC SO GA-18/1996
937
AETC SO GA-12/1998
938
AETC SO GA-9/2000
939
AETC SO GA-55/2004
940
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
941
AETC SO GA-045/2007
942
AETC SO G-054/2008
943
AETC SO G-071/2009
944
AETC SO G-025/2010
945
AETC SO G-086/2011
946
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
178
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: 8 April 1967-28 January 1973.
Assignments. 56th Maintenance and Supply Group, 15 August 1947-1 August 1948.
56th Maintenance and Supply Group, 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Air Base
(later, 56th Combat Support) Group, 1 February 1961-1 April 1963. 56th Fighter Wing
(Air Defense), 1 April 1963-1 January 1964. 56th Air Commando (later, 56th Special
Operations,) Wing, 8 April 1967 947 -Unknown. Tactical Air Command, Unknown-
30 June 1975. 948 56th Tactical Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training; later, 56th Fighter)
Wing, 30 June 1975 949 -1 November 1991. 56th Logistics Group on 1 November 1991-
4 January 1994 950 ; 1 April 1994 951 -1 August 2002. 952 56th Support (later, 56th Mission
Support Group) on 1 August 2002-. 953
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 February 1961-1 January 1964. Nakhon
Phanon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 954 -28 February 1975.
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. Luke Air Force Base,
Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 955
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 11 February 2003
Blazon. On a disc Azure, a globe Celeste, gridlined Argent, encircled from behind by an
orbit bendwise sinister Gules, trisecting in front of the globe and terminating in three
mullets in bend of the third, all within a narrow border Yellow.
Attached above the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed “SEMPER EXPEDITUS" in Yellow letters.
Attached below the disc, a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border and
inscribed "56TH LOGISTICS READINESS SQ" in Yellow letters.
Motto. Service to The Best.
947
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
948
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975;
949
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975;
950
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
951
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
952
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
953
AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
954
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
955
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
179
Significance. Ultramarine blue and Air Force yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue
alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The blue globe represents logistics.
The rings and stars circling the globe represent the disciplines of supply, transportation
and plans. The Latin motto translates in English to “Always Ready.”
Commanders.
Supply Squadron, 56th Maintenance and Supply Group
[15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown 15 August 1947-1 August 1948
56th Supply Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown
1 August 1948-Unknown
Lt Col Robert E. Bremer bef 31 July 1949
56th Supply Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952;
1 February 1961-1 January 1964;
8 April 1967-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-1 August 2002]
Unknown 20 January 1950-6 February 1952
Capt (later, Maj) Elmer E. Williams, Jr. 1 February 1961
Capt Daniel D. Rosinsky 30 January 1963
1st Lt H.K. Lawler 23 July 1963
Maj Ralph L. Bent
30 August 1963-Unknown
Lt Col Thaviu P. Hackler 8 April 1967
Lt Col John A. Moe 23 April 1967 956
Lt Col M.H. Mynheir bef 31 March 1969
Lt Col Wilbert D. Wesse bef 30 September 1969
Maj (later, Lt Col) Wayne G. Mathern 15 August 1970
Lt Col Alvin L. Yanke bef 30 September 1971
Lt Col Leland E. Turner, Jr. bef 31 January 1973
Lt Col William A. Lawrence 17 September 1973
Capt Richard M. LaFontaine 10 May 1974 957
Maj James W. Hopp 31 July 1974 958
956
56 SUPS SO 3, 23 April 1967
957
56 SUPS SO G-2, 10 May 1974
958
56 SUPS SO G-3, 31 July 1974
180
Commanders. (Continued)
Lt Col James O. Turner bef 27 August 1975
Lt Col Richard W. Dush 27 August 1975 959
Lt Col Fredrick L. Freshcorn 5 June 1978
Maj David C. Johnson 25 October 1980 960
Maj (later, Lt Col William C. Shaw 26 November 1980 961
Maj Alan R. Lewis 22 July 1983 962
Lt Col Jose L. Miranda 17 October 1983
Lt Col Harry M. Barash 28 September 1984 963
Maj Loretta L. Floyd 29 April 1985
Lt Col Raymond N. Angor, Jr. 23 August 1985
Mr. Louis M. Crawford 1987
Lt Col Gayle H. Pfeiffer 17 August 1987 964
Lt Col Joe N. Carter, Jr. 31 October 1990
Lt Col Carolyn D. Hamilton 1 March 1993-4 January 1994 965
Lt Col Robert K. Hutto 1 April 1994 966
Maj Marcus W. Hogins bef 20 June 1997
Lt Col James A. Teaford 20 June 1997 967
Maj Peter D. Hofelich 8 August 2000 968 -1 August 2002
959
56 CSG SO G-3, 27 August 1975
960
56 CSG SO G-48, 25 October 1980
961
56 CSG SO G-51, 26 November 1980
962
56 CSG SO G-27, 22 July 1983
963
56 CSG SO G-29, 28 September 1984
964
56 CSG SO G-69, 17 August 1987
965
56 SUPS SO G-002, 12 March 1993
966
[58 SUPS SO SO-GAA-3, 20 August 1993]
967
SO SO-GC-003, ca. 20 June 1997
968
56 SUPS SO SO-GC-001, ca. 3 August 2000
181
56th Logistics Readiness Squadron [1 August 2002-.]
Lt Col Gary W. Larberg 1 August 2002 969
Maj Louis P. Seliquini, Jr. 28 June 2004 970
Lt Col Michael E. Washington 30 June 2006 971
Lt Col Carrie J. Bausano 18 June 2008 972
Maj (later, Lt Col) Michael T. Davis 30 June 2010 973
Lt Col Erin C. Cluff 6 July 2012 974
The 87th Sub-Depot Supply’s Main Issue Aisle
during World War II at Luke Field.
969
56 LRS SO SO-GH-002, 26 September 2002
970
56 LRS SO 56 LRS GS-2004-3, 14 July 2004
971
56 MSG SO MSG-06-03, 19 June 2006
972
56 MSG SO G-025, 10 June 2008
973
56 MSG SO G-020, 25 June 2010
974
56 MSG SO G-023, 3 July 2012
182
56th Security Forces Squadron
Lineage.
Designated Squadron "B," 56th Airdrome
Group on 28 July 1947.
Activated on 15 August 1947.
Discontinued on 1 August 1948.
Consolidated (12 October 1984) with the
56th Air Police Squadron, Fighter,
Jet, which was constituted on
14 June 1948.
Activated on 1 August 1948.
Redesignated 56th Air Police Squadron on
20 January 1950.
Inactivated on 6 February 1952.
Activated on 15 February 1963.
Organized on 1 April 1963.
Discontinued, and inactivated, on 1 January 1964. 975
Redesignated 56th Security Police Squadron, and activated, on 16 March 1967.
Organized on 8 April 1967. 976
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 977
Activated on 1 April 1994. 978
Redesignated 56th Security Forces Squadron on 1 July 1997. 979
With help from augmentees, the 56th Security Police Squadron processed
260,000 people during the 2011 Luke AFB Open House.
975
AFOMO 90n, 16 September 1963
976
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
977
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
978
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
979
AETC SO G-97-28, 17 June 1997
183
Honors.
Campaign Streamers.
Vietnam
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II [1967-1968]
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III [1968] 980
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV [1968-1969]
Tet 1969 Counteroffensive [1969]
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969 [1969]
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1970 [1969-1970] 981
Sanctuary Counteroffensive [1970]
Southwest Monsoon [1970] 982
Commando Hunt V [1970-1971] 983
Commando Hunt VI [1971] 984
Commando Hunt VII [1971-1972] 985
Vietnam Cease Fire [1972-1973] 986
Decorations.
Presidential Unit Citations
Southeast Asia 1 November 1968-1 May 1969 987
Southeast Asia 1 October 1969-30 April 1970 988
Southeast Asia 1 April 1972-22 February 1973.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 June 1970-31 May 1971 with Combat "V" Device 989
1 December 1970-30 November 1971 with Combat "V" Device 990
1 December 1971-29 February 1972 with Combat "V" Device 991
23 February 1973-28 February 1974 with Combat "V" Device 992
24 January 1975-2 May 1975 with Combat "V" Device 993
980
PACAF SO G-184, 30 July 1969
981
PACAF SO G-352, 14 June 1971
982
PACAF SO GB-0019, 31 January 1974
983
PACAF SO GB-0022, 31 January 1974
984
PACAF SO GB-0025, 31 January 1974
985
PACAF SO GB-0027, 31 January 1974
986
PACAF SO GB-0187, 15 July 1974
987
DAF SO GB-552/1970
988
DAF SO GB-352/1971
989
DAF SO GB-703, 9 November 1971
990
DAF SO GB-667, 28 September 1972
991
DAF SO GB-553/1973
992
DAF SO GB-600/1975
993
DAF SO GB-623, 10 August 1976
184
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 994
1 July 1980-31 May 1982 995
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 996
1 May 1987-30 April 1989 997
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 998
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 999
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1000
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1001
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1002
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1003
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1004
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1005
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1006
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1007
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1008
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1009
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1010
Special Honors.
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: 8 April 1967-28 January 1973.
994
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
995
DAF SO GB-117, 22 February 1983
996
DAF SO GB-275/1987
997
TAC SO GA-053, 29 August 1989
998
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
999
TAC SO GA-069/1991
1000
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1001
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1002
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1003
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1004
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1005
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1006
AETC SO G-054/2008
1007
AETC SO G-071/2009
1008
AETC SO G-025/2010
1009
AETC SO G-086/2011
1010
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
185
Assignments. 56th Airdrome Group, 15 August 1947-1 August 1948. 56th Air Base
Group, 1 August 1948-6 February 1952. 56th Air Base (later, 56th Combat Support)
Group, 15 February 1963-1 January 1964. 56th Combat Support (later, 56th Support)
Group, 8 April 1967 1011 -4 January 1994. 56th Support (later, 56th Mission Support)
Group on 1 April 1994-. 1012
Stations. Selfridge Field (later, Air Force Base), Michigan, 15 August 1947-6 February
1952. K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, 1 April 1963-1 January 1964. Nakhon
Phanon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, 8 April 1967 1013 -28 February 1975.
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. Luke Air Force Base,
Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 1014
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. Approved on 13 August 1979
Blazon. On a blue disc edged with a narrow yellow border, a tan rattlesnake, coiled, with
black markings and details, eye yellow, emitting from its open mouth a horizontal yellow
lightning bolt.
Motto. Ready to Strike.
Significance. The lightning Bolt was taken from the insignia of the 56th Combat
Support Group, which the 56th Security Police Squadron is a part of. The rattlesnake has
50 diamonds and six rattles, and represents the 56th Security Police Squadron. The
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is very prevalent in the area that the 56th Security
Police Squadron is stationed in. The Eastern diamondback is an appropriate symbol,
because it will stand its ground, and will strike when threatened. The motto, "Ready to
Strike," means that the 56th Security Police Squadron is ready for action, and can be
immediately mobilized and deployed anywhere in the world.
1011
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
1012
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994; AETC SO G-02-20, 23 June 2002
1013
PACAF SO G-41, 8 March 1967
1014
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
186
Commanders.
Squadron "B," 56th Airdrome Group [15 August 1947-1 August 1948]
Unknown 15 August 1947-1 August 1948
56th Air Police Squadron, Fighter, Jet [1 August 1948-20 January 1950]
Unknown 1 August 1948-20 January 1950
56th Air Police Squadron [20 January 1950-6 February 1952;
1 April 1963-1 January 1964]
Unknown 20 January 1950-6 February 1952
Maj Eugene A. Lamar 1 April 1963-1 January 1964
56th Security Police Squadron [8 April 1967-4 January 1994;
1 April 1994-1 July 1997]
Capt Ralph N. Dunlap 8 April 1967
1st Lt John W. Ross bef 8 June 1967
Capt Paul N. Scheidel bef 15 August 1967
1st Lt Charles Sprunk bef 15 October 1967
Capt Paul N. Scheidel bef 15 January 1968
Maj Melvin N. Toloso bef November 1968
Maj Robert V. Jones bef 30 June 1969
Lt Col William D. Raven bef 30 September 1969
Maj Gerald R. Frank bef 30 September 1970
Maj Renwick F. Mottley bef 30 September 1971
Maj James S. Barger bef 31 March 1972
Maj Joseph W. Wilson bef 30 June 1972
Maj Thomas J. Murphy bef 31 December 1972
Maj Gary G. Allison bef 31 March 1973
Lt Col Billie M. Downer 1 May 1973
Maj George T. Harper 15 March 1974
Maj Lewis A. Elam bef 31 March 1974
Maj George T. Harper bef 30 September 1974
Capt Charles J. Heubusch bef 30 June 1975
Lt Col B. M. Downer 30 June 1975
Maj Robert F. Picinus bef 17 January 1977
Capt James M. Randel 17 January 1977 1015
Maj Kenneth R. Anderson 2 February 1977 1016
Lt Col William B. Driggers, Jr. 1 September 1978
Maj Karl J. Woelz 4 August 1979
1015
56 CSG SO G-2, 17 January 1977
1016
56 CSG SO G-7, 2 February 1977
187
Commanders. (Continued)
Maj Carl E. Gunderson 12 December 1980
Lt Col James L. Hendrickson 14 October 1983
Lt Col Sydney W. Griffin 14 February 1986 1017
Maj Jonnie L. Wright 14 November 1988
Capt John W. Probst 12 July 1990
Lt Col David H. Donatelli 30 August 1990
Maj J. Karen Fiedor 28 June 1993-4 January 1994.
Maj Edward N. Addison 1 April 1994 1018
Maj Eugene V. Morabito 29 May 1996-1 July 1997. 1019
56th Security Forces Squadron [1 July 1997-.]
Maj Eugene V. Morabito 1 July 1997
Lt Col Allen J. Jamerson 1 July 1998 1020 (Brigadier General)
Maj Tracey M. Meck 5 July 2000 1021
Maj Michael D. Ross, Sr. 23 May 2002 1022
Maj Stephen R. Mezhir 14 June 2004 1023
Lt Col Stephen R. Mezhir 16 May 2007 1024
Maj Christopher J. DeGuelle 13 July 2007 1025
Lt Col Michael J. Borders, Jr. 13 June 2008 1026
Maj Gerald C. Mulhollen, Jr. 14 June 2010 1027
Maj Sean R. Gibbs 6 July 2012-. 1028
1017
56 CSG SO G-19, 13 February 1986
1018
[58 SG SO G-01, 7 July 1993
1019
56 SG SO GA-04, 20 May 1996
1020
56 SFS SO GA-09, 29 June 1998
1021
56 SFS SO GA-002, 13 September 2000
1022
56 SFS SO GA-001, 2 July 2002
1023
56 SFS SO SFS-004, 25 June 2004
1024
56 MSG SO MSG-07-01, 19 October 2006
1025
56 MSG SO MSG-07-09, 3 July 2007
1026
56 SFS SO G-021, 15 May 2008
1027
56 MSG SO G-015, 14 June 2010
1028
56 FW SO G-024, 3 July 2012
188
56th Medical Group
Col Yolanda D. Bledsoe
Lineage.
Constituted as USAF Regional Hospital, MacDill, on 18 March 1969.
Activated on 1 July 1969.
Redesignated 56th Medical Group on 15 March 1987. 1029
Inactivated on 4 January 1994. 1030
Activated on 1 April 1994. 1031
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1969-31 December 1969 1032
1 January 1977-1 January 1979 1033
1 July 1980-30 June 1982
1 June 1984-31 May 1986 1034
1 May 1989-30 April 1990 1035
1 May 1990-30 April 1991 1036
1029
DAF/PRM 770q, 5 March 1987
1030
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
1031
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1032
DAF SO GB-891, 4 November 1970
1033
DAF SO GB-719, 30 November 1979
1034
DAF SO GB-275/1987
1035
TAC SO GA-048, 16 August 1990
1036
TAC SO GA-069/1991
189
Decorations. (Continued)
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (Continued)
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1037
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1038
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1039
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1040
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1041
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1042
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1043
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1044
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1045
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1046
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1047
PAST AND PRESENT UNITS ASSIGNED
Currently Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron 1 April 1994. 1048
56th Dental Squadron 1 April 1994. 1049
56th Medical Operations Squadron 1 April 1994. 1050
56th Medical Support Squadron 1 April 1994. 1051
Previously Assigned Units
Time Frame Assigned
Squadrons
56th Tactical Hospital
later, 56th Air Transportable Hospital 15-March 1987-4 January 1994. 1052
1037
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1038
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1039
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1040
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1041
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1042
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1043
AETC SO G-054/2008
1044
AETC SO G-071/2009
1045
AETC SO G-025/2010
1046
AETC SO G-086/2011
1047
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
1048
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1049
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1050
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1051
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
190
Assignments. 15th Tactical Fighter Wing, 1 July 1969. 1st Tactical Fighter Wing,
1 October 1970. 56th Tactical Fighter (later, 56th Tactical Training; later, 56th Fighter)
Wing, 30 June 1975-4 January 1994. 1053 56th Fighter Wing, 1 April 1994-. 1054
Stations. MacDill AFB, FL, 1 July 1969-4 January 1994. 1055 Luke AFB, AZ, 1 April
1994-. 1056
Aircraft. None.
Emblem. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Emblem approved 19 April 1967. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Blazon. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.] Tenne
on a chevron azure fimbriated or two lightning flashes chevronwise of the last. [Source:
1967 Emblem Approval Letter.].
Motto. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
Cave Tonitrum (Beware of the Thunderbolt) . [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
Significance. [Group will use the wing emblem with group designation in the scroll.]
The emblem is symbolic of the Wing. The heraldic chevron, represents support and
signifies the Wing's support of our nation's quest for peace. The blue of the chevron
represents the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. The lightning bolt
symbolizes speed and aggressiveness with which the unit performs. The color of the
shield represents the Air Corps and commemorates the service of the 56th Fighter Group,
whose honors and history the Wing inherits. The emblem bears the Air Force colors of
golden yellow and ultramarine blue. [Source: 1967 Emblem Approval Letter.]
1052
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
1053
TAC SO GA-12, 10 June 1975; ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
1054
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1055
ACC SO GB-18, 30 December 1993
1056
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
191
Commanders.
USAF Regional Hospital, MacDill [1 July 1969-15 March 1987]
Unknown
Unknown
Col John S. Flint bef 23 January 1977
Col Frank E. Edmunds, Jr. 17 September 1978
Col James E. McClure bef 5 July 1982
Lt Col Fredrick S. Arnold bef 5 July 1982
Col William E. Palma 5 July 1982 1057
Col Pedro N. Rivera 15 November 1984 1058
Col Thomas F. Treat 9 May 1986
Col Martin I. Victor 23 May 1986
Col Karl N. Schaberl 16 July 1986 1059
Col Martin I. Victor 29 July 1986-15 March 1987 1060
A 56th Medical Support Squadron Laboratory Technician examines a sample in the Lab.
1057
56 CSG SO G-15, 4 August 1982
1058
56 CSG SO G-35, 13 November 1984
1059
56 CSG SO G-50, 16 July 1986
1060
56 CSG SO G-54, 29 July 1986
192
56th Medical Group [15 March 1987-4 January 1994; 1 April 1994-.]
Col Martin I. Victor 15 March 1987
Col Mervin T. Avants, Jr. 14 September 1987 1061
Col Martin I. Victor 10 October 1987 1062
Col Gary K. Brandon 16 July 1990
Col Lynn M. Jones 6 June 1993 1063
Col John J. Kalosis August 1993-4 January 1994
Col Roger A. Beck 1 April 1994 1064
Col Michael W. Lischak 7 August 1998 1065
Col James Malenkos III 11 July 2000 1066
Col Donald E. Taylor 9 July 2002 1067
Col Schuyler K. Geller 8 July 2004 1068
Col Joseph P. Chozinski 7 June 2006 1069
Col Mark J. Holland 11 May 2009 1070
Col Yolanda D. Bledsoe 17 June 2011 1071
An airman first class in the 56th Medical Operations Squadron's Allergy/Immunizations
Clinic gives a treatment to 1st Lt Bryson Byrd.
1061
56 CSG SO G-75, 14 September 1987
1062
56 CSG SO G-4, 9 October 1987
1063
56 MS SO G-002, 28 May 1993
1064
[58 MDG SO SO-GU-001, 26 January 1993]
1065
56 MDG SO GU-008, 7 August 1998
1066
56 MDG SO GU-012, 26 June 2000
1067
56 MDG SO GU-003, 20 June 2002
1068
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-3, 12 July 2004
1069
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-3, 9 May 2006
1070
56 MSG SO G-029, 13 May 2009
1071
56 MDG SO 56 MSG G-013, 17 June 2011
193
56th Medical Operations Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Medical Operations
Squadron on 21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 1072
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1073
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1074
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1075
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1076
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1077
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1078
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1079
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1080
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1081
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1082
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1083
Assignments. 56th Medical Group, 1 April 1994-. 1084
Stations. Luke AFB, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 1085
1072
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1073
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1074
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1075
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1076
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1077
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1078
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1079
AETC SO G-054/2008
1080
AETC SO G-071/2009
1081
AETC SO G-025/2010
1082
AETC SO G-086/2011
1083
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
1084
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1085
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
194
Emblem. Approved on 23October 1997
Blazon. Per fess Azure and Gules radiating to chief from fess point four rays Or, overall
a Staff of Aesculapius, staff Brown, serpent Vert; all within a diminished bordure of the
first.
Attached below the disc a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Blue border and
inscribed "56th MEDICAL OPS SQ. " in Black letters.
Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The Staff of Aesculapius stands for hope, life and
wisdom as well as the unit's mission of providing quality patient health care.
The alternating rays suggest twenty-four hour medical care that is provided by the
squadron.
Commanders.
56th Medical Operations Squadron [1 April 1994-.]
Col Reba Ray 1 April 1994 1086
Col Michael Gookin 20 October 1994 1087
Lt Col James N. Black 13 February 1997 1088
Lt Col Margaret B. Matarese 12 July 1999 1089
Lt Col Gail McCain 31 May 2001 1090
Lt Col Paul A. Friedrichs 22 May 2003 1091
Lt Col Janet T. Taylor 17 May 2005 1092
Col Dean L. Messelheiser 5 June 2007 1093
Col David C. Hall 20 May 2009 1094
Col Nicola A. Choate 10 June 2011 1095
1086
56 MDSS SO GU-001, ca. 12 May 1994
1087
56 MDG SO GU-001, 17 October 1994
1088
56 MDG SO GU-001, 30 January 1997
1089
56 MDG SO GU012, 8 July 1999
1090
56 MDG SO GU-005, 30 May 2001
1091
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-1, ca. 1 May 2003
1092
56 MDG SO G-05-02, 19 April 2005
1093
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-1, 31 May 2007
1094
56MSG SO G-031, 8 June 2009
1095
56 MSG SO G-014, 10 June 2011
195
56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Aerospace Medicine
Squadron on 21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 1096
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1097
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1098
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1099
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1100
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1101
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1102
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1103
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1104
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1105
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1106
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1107
Assignments. 56th Medical Group, 1 April 1994-. 1108
Stations. Luke AFB, AZ, 1 April 1994-. 1109
1096
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1097
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1098
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1099
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1100
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1101
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1102
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1103
AETC SO G-054/2008
1104
AETC SO G-071/2009
1105
AETC SO G-025/2010
1106
AETC SO G-086/2011
1107
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
1108
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1109
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
196
Emblem. Approved on 26 January 1996
Blazon. Azure, a demi-globe issuant from base Celeste gridlined Sable charged with a
cross in perspective Gules, the palewise member garnished as a runway Argent and
Sable, overall in chief a Caduceus of the fourth detailed Black with the lower portion of
the staff Red issuing two speed lines chevronwise from its wings White; all within a
diminished bordure Or.
Attached below the disc a Blue scroll edged with a narrow Yellow border.
Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The red cross represents strength within the medical
arena; it also symbolizes the" blanket" of medical commitment provided by unit
personnel to both flying and non-flying military members. The Caduceus, the symbolic
staff of a herald, is at the point of the futuristic aircraft. This position signifies that the
unit is ready to supply aeromedical support to aircrews, personnel and the environmental
elements of space. The earth signifies the worldwide commitment of peacekeeping and
the environmental protection of air, water and land.
56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron's SSgt Lee Del Gerrard fits an Airman with a gas
mask prior to a mask fit test.
197
Commanders.
56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron [1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Howard D. Wilcox 1 April 1994 1110
Lt Col Brian J. Funke 13 December 1995 1111
Lt Col Richard L. Neel 13 September 1996 1112
Maj (later, Lt Col) Richard A. Clark 9 January 1998 1113
Lt Col Rolland C. Reynolds, Jr. 3 August 1999 1114
Lt Col William H. Sneeder, Jr. 17 July 2001 1115
Lt Col Patrick P. Miles 9 July 2003 1116
Lt Col Charles S. Tedder 14 March 2005 1117
Col Andrew Marchiando 10 June 2008 1118
Col Neal R. Taylor 16 July 2010 1119
Lt Col Daniel T. Smith 2 July 2012-. 1120
A 56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron's optometrist examines an Airman's eyes.
1110
56 MDSS SO GU-003, ca. 12 May 1994
1111
56 MDG SO GU-001, 8 December 1995
1112
56 MDG SO GU-004, 12 September 1996
1113
56 AMDS SO GU-003, 8 January 1998
1114
56 MDG SO GU-014, 30 July 1999
1115
56 MDG SO GU – 006, 11 July 2001
1116
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G2003-2, 7 July 2003
1117
56 MDG SO G-05-01, 10 March 2005
1118
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-2, 8 May 2008
1119
56 MSG SO G-022, 7 July 2010
1120
56 MSG SO G-027, 2 July 2012
198
56th Dental Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Dental Squadron on
21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 1121
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1122
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1123
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1124
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1125
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1126
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1127
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1128
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1129
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1130
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1131
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1132
Assignments. 56th Medical Group, 1 April 1994-. 1133
Stations. Luke AFB, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 1134
1121
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1122
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1123
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1124
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1125
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1126
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1127
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1128
AETC SO G-054/2008
1129
AETC SO G-071/2009
1130
AETC SO G-025/2010
1131
AETC SO G-086/2011
1132
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
1133
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
199
Emblem. Approved on 5 November 1997
Blazon. Per fess Or and Azure in chief three rays issuant from fess point Gules the
center one charged with the Roman cypher "D" debruised with a Staff of Aesculapius
Sable, overall a bald eagle stooping Proper between three mullets arcing to base Argent;
all within a diminished bordure Black.
Attached below the disc a Yellow scroll edged with a narrow Black border.
Motto. None.
Significance. Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the
primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence
required of Air Force personnel. The red rays represent the valor displayed by unit
members in performance of their duties. The Staff of Aesculapius denotes the medical
profession. The letter" D" signifies the specific duties associated with dental health care.
The eagle reflects the dental service provided by the nation's defenders. The stars reflect
the excellent quality of health care provided by unit personnel.
Commanders.
56th Dental Squadron [1 April 1994-.]
Col Brian J. Seek 1 April 1994 1135
Col James W. Basden 15 August 1994 1136
Col Barry J. Baiorunos 7 August 1995 1137
Lt Col (later, Col) Kevin F. Blair 4 August 1998 1138
Col Benjamin Blackham 11 July 2000 1139
Col Peter C. Antinopoulos 13 August 2002 1140
Col Jeffrey M. Swartz 29 June 2004 1141
Col Glenn L. Terry 10 July 2007 1142
Col Jeffery F. Baker 27 July 2009 1143
Col Larry J. Evans 4 August 2011-. 1144
1134
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1135
56 MDSS SO GU-002, ca. 12 May 1994
1136
56 MDG SO GU-005, 13 September 1994
1137
56 MDG SO GU-005, 7 August 1995
1138
56 MDG SO GU-007, 3 August 1998
1139
56 MDG SO GU-011, 26 June 2000
1140
56 MDG SO GU-004, 16 July 2002
1141
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-2, 27 May 2004
1142
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-2, 25 June 2007
1143
56 MSG SO G-043, 29 July 2009
1144
56 MDG SO G-020, 28 June 2011
200
56th Medical Support Squadron
Lineage.
Constituted 56th Medical Support Squadron
on 21 March 1994.
Activated on 1 April 1994. 1145
Honors.
Decorations.
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
1 July 1994-30 June 1996 1146
1 July 1996-30 June 1998 1147
1 July 1998-30 June 2000 1148
1 July 2001-30 June 2003 1149
1 June [July] 2003-30 June 2005 1150
1 July 2005-30 June 2006 1151
1 July 2006-30 June 2007 1152
1 July 2007-30 June 2008 1153
1 July 2008-30 June 2009 1154
1 July 2009-30 June 2010 1155
1 July 2010-30 June 2011 1156
Assignments. 56th Medical Group, 1 April 1994-. 1157
Stations. Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, 1 April 1994-. 1158
1145
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1146
AETC SO GA-18/1996
1147
AETC SO GA-12/1998
1148
AETC SO GA-9/2000
1149
AETC SO GA-55/2004
1150
AETC SO GA-0052/2006
1151
AETC SO GA-045/2007
1152
AETC SO G-054/2008
1153
AETC SO G-071/2009
1154
AETC SO G-025/2010
1155
AETC SO G-086/2011
1156
AETC SO G-171/17 April 2012
1157
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
201
Emblem. Approved on 15 November 1996
Blazon. A gules, or and ultramarine azure shield is centered on an ultramarine azure
disc. A gules cross is surmounted over the shield at the nombril point. The disc is
bordered with gules. An ultramarine azure scroll is attached below the disc. The scroll,
which is blank, is also bordered with gules.
Motto. None.
Significance. Ultramarine Blue and Air Force Yellow are used in the design. Blue
represents the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow signifies the sun
and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The Red Cross symbolizes the
medical mission of the unit. The alternating YELLOW and RED represent the
excellence and valor of support personnel in providing healthcare.
Commanders.
56th Medical Support Squadron [1 April 1994-.]
Lt Col Gary W. Milner 1 April 1994 1159
Maj (later, Lt Col) Dale A. Villani 20 September 1996 1160
Lt Col Douglas E. Anderson 1 August 1998 1161
Lt Col Timothy R. McCormick 9 January 2001 1162
Lt Col Fabrizio Saraceni 27 June 2002 1163
Lt Col Jesus E. Zarate 10 June 2004 1164
Lt Col Daniel Milnes 17 May 2006 1165
Lt Col Ronald L. Johnson 22 May 2008 1166
Lt Col Scott C. Suckow 14 June 2010 1167
Maj Gregory A. Coleman 15 June 2012 1168
1158
AETC SO G-34, 25 March 1994
1159
56 MDSS SO GU-004, ca. 12 May 1994
1160
56 MDG SO GU-005, 12 September 1996
1161
56 MSS SO GU-010, 10 August 1998
1162
56 MDG SO GU-015, 15 February 2001
1163
56 MDG SO GU-002, 20 June 2002
1164
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-1, 27 May 2004
1165
56 MDG SO 56 MDG G-1, 9 May 2006
1166
56 MDG SO 56MDSS SO G-1, 8 May 2008
1167
56 MSG SO G-027, 14 June 2010
1168
56 MDG SO G-014, 13 June 2012
202
History of Luke AFB
On 8 August 1940, the same day the Battle of Britain began, President Franklin D.
Roosevelt directed the military to produce 12,000 pilots annually. In response to that
order, the Army Air Corps conducted feasibility studies for the construction of eight new
air fields. Phoenix City Manager Donald C. Scott announced on 13 February 1941 that
the War Department had approved a site two miles north of the town of Litchfield Park,
Arizona, for the construction of an advanced single engine flying training base. The site
not only had almost year-round flying weather, but it also enjoyed proximity to vast
stretches of Sonoran Desert that were ideal for bombing and gunnery practice. Two days
later, Lt Col Ennis C. Whitehead arrived in the area to supervise construction of the base
and to act as its first commander.
Ground was broken for Litchfield Park Air Base on 31 March 1941, and on 6 June 1941
the installation was renamed Luke Field for 2d Lt Frank Luke, Jr., a Phoenix native who
was a World War I ace and the first aviator to be awarded the Medal of Honor. The first
student pilot class began training the next day. During World War II, Luke Field
produced 17,321 graduates from fighter training programs for the US and its allies. The
base closed on 30 November 1946.
Luke was redesignated an air force base when it reopened on 1 February 1951 in
response to a need for fighter aircrews generated by the Korean Conflict. The base was
initially equipped with F-51 Mustang and F-84 Thunderjet aircraft. In 1957, Luke Air
Force Base joined the supersonic age when the North American F-100 Super Sabre was
assigned to the installation. That was followed in 1964 by foreign military sales
programs in the F-104 Starfighter and the F-5A Freedom Fighter. The A-7D Corsair
arrived in 1969, but was reassigned when the decision was made to make Luke USAF's
primary F-4 Phantom II training base. The first F-4 was assigned in 1971. The first of
the "Superfighters," the F-15 Eagle, was assigned to the base in 1974 followed in 1982 by
the second "Superfighter," the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Then the F-15E Strike Eagle
arrived in 1988. Three years later, in 1991, a decision to make Luke Air Force Base the
service’s primary F-16 training base led to the reassignment of the F-15 and four years
later, in 1995, the F-15E was reassigned.
Prior to the reassignment of the F-15E, the real world political and military situation
resulted in a perceived lessening of international tensions and resulted in a down-sizing
of the nation’s military. Senior Air Force leadership moved to ensure the most highly
decorated units in USAF history remained part of the active force during the drawdown.
That led to the reassignment of one of the most highly decorated units in USAF history,
the 56th Fighter Wing, from scheduled-to-close MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, to Luke
Air Force Base on 1 April 1994. Since 1941, Luke has produced more than 57,500
graduates from fighter training programs for the US and its allies and is truly:
"The Home of the Fighter Pilot."
203
Luke Field/AFB Chronology
World War II
8 August 1940 President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered military to produce
12,000 pilots annually for proposed 54-group Army Air Corps.
1 October 1940 Lt Col Arthur L Wilson, Army's airport engineer chief, arrived in
Phoenix, Arizona, to discuss possible establishment of flying
training base.
26 November 1940 Brig Gen Henry W. Harms, West Coast Training Center
commander, recommended Phoenix site to War Department for
construction of advanced single engine flying training base.
17 December 1940 President Roosevelt increased target for annual pilot production
from 12,000 to 30,000.
13 February 1941 Phoenix City Manager Donald C. Scott announced War Dept
okayed for site just north of Litchfield Park, Arizona, for
construction of air base and leased to Army for $1 annually.
31 March 1941 Del Webb Construction Company broke ground for first building.
21 April 1941 Litchfield Park Air Base, Arizona, formally designated.
1 June 1941 2d Lt Martin D. Mulligan, a flight instructor piloting a
North American AT-6 Texan, made first landing at base.
6 June 1941 Base renamed Luke Field for 2d Lt Frank Luke, Jr., Phoenix
native who achieved triple ace status in WW I and first aviator
awarded Medal of Honor.
7 June 1941 Class 41-F began training at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
20 June 1941 Army Air Corps redesignated Army Air Forces.
15 July 1941 Flight operations moved from Sky Harbor to Luke Field.
15 August 1941 Class 41-F and 43 students first class to complete training.
5 September 1941 President Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8892 withdrawing
federal lands at Gila Bend, Arizona, from public use and set land
aside for bombing/gunnery practice.
29 September 1941 Luke Field formally dedicated.
7 December 1941 Nation's entry into World War II saw Luke construction 95
percent complete with facilities for 3,700 personnel.
204
26 December 1941 Federal judge authorized government to seize cattle on Gila Bend
Range. Ranchers had grazing rights under Taylor Grazing Act
and refused to move herds after President Roosevelt issued his 5
September 1941 order. Judge's ruling prompted ranchers to
move herds.
December 1941 Heavy rains caused flooding; base covered with silt and debris.
9 January 1942 2d Lt Richard I. Bong completed AT-6 advanced training as a
member of Class 42-A. He was all-time top US ace with 40 kills
and received Medal of Honor.
2d Lt Richard I. Bong
as an Instructor Pilot at Luke in 1942
30 January 1942 Gila Bend Gunnery Range placed on exempted status.
18 March 1942 Executive Order 9104 issued and again allowed military use of
Gila Bend Range.
27 March 1942 First Chinese Air Force AT-6 class, 42-E, graduated 42 students.
25 May 1942 Project started to modify irrigation ditches/drainage canals to
carry excess flood waters away from base.
22 June 1942 Curtis P-40 Warhawk training began.
14 July 1942 Heavy rains filled canal near base and resulted in flood.
September 1942 Heavy rains damaged Luke Field and disrupted training.
12 September 1942 First Chinese Air Force P-40 class, 42-F, graduated 40 students.
2 October 1942 First Army Air Forces class completed P-40 training.
6 November 1942 Interior Department Order 56 issued allowing military use of Gila
Bend Range.
14 March 1943 Base's P-40 operational training unit revised into P-40 fighter
transition training program.
205
April 1943
First US P-40 fighter transition class graduated.
5 June 1943 First Women's Army Auxiliary Corps members arrived at Luke.
July 1943
Record-setting 49,784 sorties flown in one month.
December 1943 Luke produced record 6,447 graduates during year.
7 February 1944 Col Lester S. Harris, Director of Training, Maj Hugh A. Griffith,
Jr., Base Operations Officers, and Capt William A. Payton,
Assistant Operations Officer, greet Col John K. Nissley, Commanding
Officer after he completed the 1,000,000 flying hour at Luke Field.
23 August 1944 First Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) arrived at Luke.
20 December 1944 WASP unit inactivated.
December 1944 Luke had 546 aircraft, the largest number ever assigned to base.
28 February 1945 Executive Order 9526 issued allowing military use of Gila Bend
Range.
13 March 1945 Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter transition training began.
July 1945
North American P-51 Mustang fighter transition training began.
14 August 1945 P-40, P-38, and P-51 training terminated for US pilots.
13 October 1945 Chinese Air Force P-40 training ended.
206
15 May 1946 Chinese Air Force P-51 training ended.
15 May 1946 Class 46-A (AT-6) graduated as last class at Luke.
30 November 1946 3028th Army Air Forces Air Base Unit inactivated at Luke.
Base became auxiliary of Williams Field, Arizona. Luke
produced 17,231 graduates training during World War II.
Graduates included 13,568 US and 508 Chinese Air Force in
AT-6, 2,483 US and 331 Chinese Air Force in P-40, 280 US in
P-38, and 61 US graduates in P-51 program.
30 November 1946 Gila Bend Range reassigned to Williams Field and redesignated
Williams Bombing and Gunnery Range.
13 January 1948 Williams Field renamed Williams Air Force Base.
28 May 1948 Congress enacted Public Law 561 allowing military use of range.
Korean War to Present
1 January 1951 Luke redesignated an Air Force Base; removed from inactive list
in response to need for fighter aircrews generated by Korean
Conflict.
1 February 1951 127th Fighter Wing (Michigan Air National Guard) federalized
and assigned to Luke as 127th Pilot Training Wing. Base
equipped with North American AT-6 Texan, North American F-
51 Mustang, and Republic F-84 Thunderjet aircraft.
1 July 1951 Intense rains flood base. Residents of nearby Glendale took in
military families whose quarters damaged by flooding.
Flooded Front Gate
14 November 1951 Gunnery range reassigned from Williams to Luke as were Gila
Bend and Dateland Air Force Auxiliary Fields, both in Arizona.
207
2 May 1952 Federal government took possession of 600,000 acres of public
domain land to expand range at Gila Bend.
1 November 1952 127th Pilot Training Wing defederalized. The 3600th Flying
Training Wing (Fighter) activated as Luke host unit and was
assigned to the Crew Training Air Force-Air Training Command.
The 3600th Flying Training Group, 3600th Air Base Group,
3600th Maintenance & Supply Group, and 3600th Medical
Group activated as subordinates of the new wing.
21 April 1953 F-51 program ended after producing 624 graduates.
1 June 1953 3600th USAF Air Demonstration Team, the Thunderbirds,
formed at Luke flying the Republic F-84G Thunderjet.
Left to Right: Aubrey D. "Brownie" Brown, Robert S. "Mac" McCormick,
Cuthbert A. "Bill" Pattillo, Maj Richard C. "Dick" Catledge, Commander,
and Charles C. "Buck" Pattillo
24 June 1953 The 3600th USAF Air Demonstration Flight (Arco-Jet) formally
assigned to the wing
1 October 1953 The 3600th Medical Group redesignated the 3600th USAF
Hospital
December 1953
Range at Gila Bend included over 2 million acres of public lands
and over 600,000 acres leased from state or private landowners.
208
4 September 1954 Capt Edward W. Kenny won Bendix Trophy Air Race/Bendix
Trophy in F-84F when set cross-country record of three hours
and two minutes for average speed of 616 miles per hour.
27 October 1954 3600th Flying Training Wing (Fighter) redesignated 3600th
Combat Crew Training Wing (Fighter). The 3600th Flying
Training Group (Fighter) also redesignated the 3600th Combat
Crew Training Group (Fighter).
15 February 1955 The 3600th Installations Group activated as a subordinate of the
wing.
April 1955
The Thunderbirds traveled to Long Island to pick up six new
Republic F-84F Thunderstreak aircraft at the factory for the team.
7 April 1956 USAF gained title to land on which base situated from Phoenix
for $1.
31 May 1956 Thunderbirds moved to Nellis AFB, Nevada, to fly supersoniccapable
North American F-100 Super Sabres assigned there.
209
1 July 1957 The 3600th Flying Training Wing (Fighter) reassigned to the
Flying Training Air Force-Air Training Command.
23 August 1957 First German AF class entered F-84 training. Class included
seven World War II Luftwaffe aces.
Left to right: Capt Friedrich Obleser (20 kills), Lt Col Guenther Rall (275),
Capt Paul Schauder (20), Capt Fritz Wegner (8), Maj Erich Hartmann (352),
Capt Dieter Bernhard (8), and 1st Lt Gerd Tetteroo (9).
8 November 1957 First F-100 Super Sabre delivered to Luke.
Senator Barry M. Goldwater, Air Force Reserve Officer,
climbs into a North American F-100 at Luke AFB.
210
1 April 1958 The 3600th Combat Crew Training Wing reassigned as a direct
subordinate of Air Training Command.
1 July 1958 In a move to place all fighter training under one command, wing
reassigned from Air Training Command to Twelfth Air Force
under Tactical Air Command. The 3600th Combat Crew
Training Wing redesignated as 4510th Combat Crew Training
Wing (Tactical Fighter) and became the host unit. Subordinate
groups were redesignated as the 4510th Combat Crew Training
Group (Fighter), 4510th Air Base Group, 4510th Maintenance &
Supply Group, 4510th Installations Group and 4510th USAF
Hospital
September 1959 Saguaro Manor base housing north of Glendale Ave opened with
724 units.
Bldg 1150, circa 1960
10 June 1960 Phoenix Air Defense Sector, Luke's largest tenant unit, moved
into "Blockhouse," bldg 1150, which was designed to withstand
near miss by a nuclear device.
1 July 1960 The 4510th Installations Group redesignated 4510th Civil
Engineering Group and relieved of assignment to the wing.
5 July 1960 F-86F program transferred to Luke from Williams AFB.
23 October 1960 302d Special Operations Squadron assigned to base.
211
27 September 1962 F-86F program transferred to Nellis AFB after producing 123
graduates.
6 March 1963 Range redesignated Luke Air Force Range.
1 July 1963 The 4510th Air Base Groups redesignated the 4510th Combat
Support Group.
1 August 1963 The 4510th Combat Crew Training Wing (Tactical Fighter)
reorganized using the dual deputy system with a Deputy
Commander for Operations, a Deputy Commander for Materiel,
4510th Combat Support Group (Tactical Air Command), and the
4510th USAF Hospital. The 4510th Combat Crew Training
Group and 4510th Maintenance Supply Group were
discontinued. The following units were activated and assigned to
the wing: 4511th, 4512th, 4514th, 4515th, 4516th, and 4517th
Combat Crew Training Squadrons; 4511th, 4512th, and
4513th Organizational Maintenance Squadrons; 4510th Field
Maintenance Squadron, 4514th Armament and Electronics
Maintenance Squadron, 4515th Munitions Maintenance
Squadron, and 4510th Supply Squadron.
1 December 1963 The 4441st Combat Crew Training Squadron organized at
Williams Air Force Base, but was assigned to 4510th Combat
Crew Training Wing (Tactical Fighter) at Luke to train students
to fly the Northrop F-5A/B Freedom Fighter.
1 December 1963 The 4518th Combat Crew Training Squadron activated and
assigned to 4510th Combat Crew Training Wing (Tactical
Fighter).
1 April 1964 The 4540th Combat Crew Training Group activated as a
subordinate to the wing to conduct German Air Force F-104G
training. The Group Commander, Col J.D. Collingsworth, was
an equal to the Deputy Commander for Operations. The 4518th,
Combat Crew Training Squadron was assigned to the group.
F-104s on the Luke AFB ramp.
212
1 April 1964 First F-104 student sortie flown under USAF/German Air Force
F-104 Starfighter Foreign Military Sales Program.
30 April 1964 First F-5A Freedom Fighter delivered to 4441st Combat Crew
Training Squadron at Williams AFB. Program conducted by
Luke but based at Williams due to commonality of
maintenance/parts between F-5 and Williams T-38 trainer.
11 June 1964 F-84 program ended after producing 6,930 graduates.
15 June 1964 With the end of F-84 training, the 4513d Organizational
Maintenance Squadron deactivated.
15 June 1964 Col James Jabara, the first jet ace, assumed command of the
4540th Combat Crew Training Group
22 July 1965 Project Skoshi Tiger conducted to determine combat
effectiveness of F-5A. Success of test resulted in basing jets in
South Vietnam.
12 December 1967 Luke was operations center for Operation Haylift which saved
500,000 snowbound Indian livestock in northern Arizona.
1 September 1969 First A-7D Corsair delivered to base as part of plan to conduct
fighter training in jet at Luke.
15 October 1969 4510th Combat Crew Training Wing inactivated and
58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing activated as Luke host unit
in move to redesignate training wings as fighter wings with
combat histories. Also, 69th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron
and 418th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron activated as F-104
units, and 425th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron activated as
F-5 unit.
15 December 1969 310th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron, which was historically
aligned with 58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing, activated to
conduct A-7D training.
213
18 January 1970 311th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron, which was historically
aligned with 58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing, activated to
conduct F-100 training, and 426th and 550th Tactical Fighter
Training Squadron activated to conduct F-100 training.
13 February 1970 First A-7D class entered training.
February 1971 Ocotillo Manor south of Glendale Ave opened with 150 units.
8 March 1970 Reassignment of A-7D program to Davis-Monthan AFB,
Arizona, announced to make room for F-4 training.
Col John S. Clark, Jr., Commander, 58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing
climbs into his F-4C.
7 May 1971 Wing received first F-4C Phantom II.
20 July 1971 Last A-7D class graduated. Program moved to Davis-Monthan
AFB after producing 143 graduates.
30 August 1971 F-100 program ended after producing 3,451 graduates.
15 December 1972 Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) study submitted
to Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to assist in planning
for compatible land use near Luke. Board judged requests for
development on case-by-case basis as impossible in 1972 to
determine what noise zones to adopt for what areas, and board's
authority to zone based on noise was questioned.
214
6 April 1973 First F-5E Tiger II delivered to 425th Tactical Fighter Training
Squadron.
5 July 1974 555th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron reassigned without
assets from Thailand to Luke and named as USAF's first
McDonnell Douglas F-15A Eagle squadron.
14 November 1974 First F-15A Eagle in USAF's operational inventory delivered to
Luke. Event presided over by President Gerald Ford.
Lt Col Ernest T. "Ted" Laudis, Commander, 555th Tactical Fighter
Training Squadron briefs President Gerald Ford on the F-15.
Colonel Laudis flew the first F-15 into Luke.
17 January 1975 Group called Westside Property Owners filed suit against Luke
charging F-15 bed down violated 1969 National Environmental
Policy Act, that jet created air/noise pollution. They argued the
F-15 posed dangerous accident threat, and that Environmental
Impact Statement on bed down contained misleading/inaccurate
statements.
20 August 1975 First F-15 repainted from air superiority blue to gray.
1976 1976 Luke AICUZ published as land use planning guide. Report
listed noise/accident potential zones near base caused by air
operations. Study had no enforcement power.
17 June 1976 Federal judge ruled in favor of Luke in Westside Property
Owners' suit (see entry 17 January 1975).
215
23 June 1976 Second F-15 squadron, the 4461st Tactical Fighter Training
Squadron, activated.
1 October 1976 F-104 program began scaling down with inactivation of
418th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron.
15 November 1976 Five Israeli AF pilots completed F-15 course, F1500F, with
555th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron as members of Class
76 AFL.
1 April 1977 New intermediate headquarters, Tactical Training Luke (TTL),
activated and 58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing redesignated a
Tactical Training Wing under the headquarters.
1 July 1977 4461st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron inactivated and
461st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron activated to assume
that unit's assets/mission.
ca. 1977
Glendale annexed a 10-foot-wide strip around Luke to protect it
from encroachment.
6 June 1978 Fire from ground accident between two F-15s resulted in first
CORKER (boron composite fibers subjected to combustion
became electromagnetically charged and shorted out electrical
systems).
29 August 1979 58th Tactical Training Wing conducted F-4/F-104/F-15/F-5
training. Span of control problems led to activation of second
wing, 405th Tactical Training Wing, to assume F-5/F-15
programs while 58th Tactical Training Wing retained F-4/F-104
programs.
21 November 1980 302d Special Operations Squadron helicopters rescued 17 people
during fire at MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.
1 December 1980 TTL inactivated and 832d Air Division activated as Luke host
unit in move to do away with nonstandard organizations.
216
1 January 1981 426th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron reassigned from 58th
to 405th Tactical Training Wing. 58th left with its original
World War II squadrons, the 69th, 310th, and 311th.
6 April 1981 First of 12 Japanese pilots entered F-15 training under Peace
Eagle Program.
4 August 1981 First of 12 Saudi pilots entered F-15 training under Peace Sun
Program.
29 June 1982 F-4 program ended after producing 3,147 graduates.
6 December 1982 First F-16A/B jet, Tail No. 78-0081, delivered to 58th Tactical
Training Wing.
25 January 1983 Training began in F-16 with Class 83 AIL in Instructor Pilot
course.
217
16 March 1983 USAF/German AF F-104 Starfighter Program ended after
producing 2,200 graduates for North Atlantic Treaty
Organization air forces. The 69th Tactical Fighter Training
Squadron, which conducted the F-104 program, was inactivated.
06 April 1983 Foreign training began in F-16 as four Pakistanis entered
Transition course with 311th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron.
December 1983 58th Tactical Training Wing proposed LF for use on F-16 tails to
differentiate 58th Tactical Training Wing from 405th Tactical
Training Wing jets. All Luke host unit jets had used LA on tails
since 1957. Request approved, but extended to all Luke host unit
aircraft.
23 December 1983 The 26th North American Aerospace Defense Command
Region/Air Division (formerly Phoenix Air Defense Sector),
Luke tenant unit, moved to March AFB, California.
24 December 1983 Media reported dispute between Luke/El Mirage over base's
opposition to envisioned $70 million El Mirage project. Luke
opposed project as homes planned too close to runways. Initial
findings of upcoming AICUZ revealed proposed development
would be in high noise areas.
1 October 1984 312d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron activated as USAF's
first F-16C/D squadron.
218
5 November 1984 First F-16C/D in USAF's inventory delivered to 58th Tactical
Training Wing, Tail Nos. 83-1121 (left) and 83-1175 (right).
January 1985 12AF Aerial Demonstration Team formed at Luke to demonstrate
F-16 capabilities at sites not usually visited by Thunderbirds.
May 1985
1985 Luke AICUZ published and included expanded high noise
areas to north resulting from departures to northeast turning west
earlier to avoid over flights of most of El Mirage, and because
F-15E operations were factored in.
26 June 1985 Interstate 10 near Luke completed. It improved access to West
Valley and attractiveness of West Valley developments.
25 July 1985 Peoples Republic of China delegation visited base to look for
possible areas of cooperation between Peoples Liberation Army
and USAF.
10 April 1986 State revised annexation law and required municipality to be
adjacent to unincorporated land and have okay from landowners
before could annex it (see entry ca. 1977).
219
2 May 1986 Arizona Senate Bill 1011 signed into law. It intended to direct
compatible land use in areas affected by military air operations,
but weakened in House when zoning left to municipalities and
suggested rather than directed compatible land use.
30 June 1986 After close coordination with Luke AFB, a new Glendale Airport
was opened some four miles east of the base.
1 October 1986 Maricopa County Joint Land-Use Study (JLUS) Committee
conducted own noise study on Luke operations. USAF
contributed $60,000 for study.
1 October 1986 314th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron activated as 58th
Tactical Training Wing’s fourth F-16 unit.
6 November 1986 Congress passed Land Withdrawal Act requiring 832d Air
Division to submit Environmental Impact Statement to Congress
on effects of fighter training on Luke AF Range environment.
Congress withdrew range from public use until 2001.
1986 Papago Indians at Sells, Arizona, change name to Tohono
O'odham.
23 March 1987 Luke Range renamed Barry M. Goldwater Range for retired US
Senator Barry M. Goldwater (Rep, Arizona). At dedication
Goldwater declared, "...Luke Air Force Base will be here
forever."
9 June 1987 US Supreme Court ruling on taking directed landowners be
compensated when new restrictions denied them use of their
land.
1 July 1987 944th Fighter Group (AFRES) activated. 302d Special
Operations Squadron redesignated tactical fighter squadron,
equipped with F-16s, and assigned to 944th Fighter Group.
21 December 1987 USAF canceled plans to base Midgetman Missile on Goldwater
Range. Basing system on range would have restricted its use as
overflying nuclear sites prohibited.
4 March 1988 First class of two Republic of Singapore AF pilots entered
training with 311th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron under a
Peace Carvin Foreign Military Sales Program.
220
12 April 1988 The 461st Tactical Fighter Training Squadron received Tail No.
86-0186. Aircraft was first McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike
Eagle in USAF.
1 September 1988 County officials approved JLUS study that reduced noise zones
near Luke by 4,000 acres over 1985 AICUZ study.
1 April 1989 4444th Operations Squadron activated and assigned to 832d Air
Division.
2 May 1989 First Block 42 F-16C/D in USAF delivered to 58th Tactical
Training Wing.
15 May 1989 550th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron became 405th Tactical
Training Wing's second F-15E training unit.
17 May 1989 First low altitude navigation and targeting infra-red for night
(LANTIRN) system accepted into USAF inventory at Luke.
1 September 1989 F-5 Foreign Military Sales program ended after producing 1,499
graduates locally and over 200 more in customer nations through
deployment of mobile training teams. 425th Tactical Fighter
Training Squadron, unit that conducted program, inactivated.
5 October 1989 Soviet Defense Minister Yazov visited base.
221
October 1989 832d Air Division Support Center activated in Blockhouse, bldg
1150, and relieved some of base's facilities shortfall.
26 December 1989 310th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron conducted Blacklight
exercise and became first unit to drop live ordnance on
uncontrolled range at night using LANTIRN system.
3 January 1990 Peace Carvin Program ended.
29 November 1990 426th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron, 405th Tactical
Training Wing F-15 fighter squadron, inactivated.
18 January 1991 312d Tactical Fighter Training Squadron inactivated as USAF
drew down F-16A/B units. Unit’s jets reassigned to more
historically significant 311th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron.
26 February 1991 Last F-16A/B used for training USAF pilots left Luke.
11 April 1991 Operation Desert Storm ended. Luke deployed over 600
personnel in support of operations, including 13 pilots who flew
258 combat missions and provided real-world training in
LANTIRN system.
15 April 1991 USAF announced plan to consolidate all Regular AF F-16C/D
training at Luke.
1 October 1991 Major force structure realignment inactivated 832d Air Division
and 405th Tactical Training Wing while 58th Tactical Training
Wing redesignated a fighter wing (FW) and Luke host unit.
Reorganization implemented objective wing, did away with
deputy commanders for operations, maintenance, and resource
management, and set up operations, logistics, support, and
medical groups. 4444th Operations Squadron reassigned to
Tactical Air Command.
1 November 1991 All Tactical Fighter Training Squadron units redesignated Fighter
Squadrons.
222
14 November 1991 550th Fighter Squadron inactivated; 555th Fighter Squadron
assumed unit's F-15E assets/mission.
9 December 1991 Fifty years of stemming encroachment ended as county officials
approved JLUS recommendation allowing some residential
development in high noise areas near Luke.
20 December 1991 Last F-15A Eagle left Luke and F-l5A/B/C/D program ended
after producing 3,303 graduates since 1974.
1 May 1992 607th Air Control Squadron assigned to 58th Fighter Wing. It
had been a Davis-Monthan AFB unit but based at Luke as a
tenant.
1 June 1992 In another reorganization, Tactical Air Command inactivated and
Air Combat Command (ACC) activated. Luke and 58th Fighter
Wing reassigned to ACC.
1 July 1992 Reorganization on 1 October 1991 also merged Component
Repair Squadron and Equipment Maintenance Squadron into
58th Maintenance Squadron. Span of control problems led new
squadron to split into two units, the 58th Component Repair
Squadron and 58th Equipment Maintenance Squadron
11 August 1992 Phoenix civic leaders traveled to Washington, District of
Columbia and met USAF secretary/USAF vice chief of staff to
stress area's support for continued existence of Luke. Group met
ACC commander next day to stress same message.
17 August 1992 Tests concluded over flights of bat caves on range had no
significant impact on Sanborne long-nosed bats which were vital
in pollinating desert plant life.
20 October 1992 Intense storms caused overflow of Dysart Drainage Canal north
of base, resulted in over $3 million in damage to base housing.
Flood caused by land subsidence of 17 feet due to long-term
pumping of ground water.
Flooded Base Bowling Alley, 20 October 1992
223
30 December 1992 425th Fighter Squadron activated to conduct Peace Carvin II
Program. Program designed to provide Republic of Singapore
AF F-16-qualified pilots with continuation training in F-16A/B.
25 February 1993 63d Fighter Squadron reassigned from 56th Fighter Wing to
58th Fighter Wing as Block 42 F-16C/D unit.
31 March 1993 Williams AFB closed with inactivation of 82d Flying Training
Wing. Luke assumed responsibility for servicing some 27,000
retirees in East Valley.
18 May 1993 Governor's Regional Airport Advisory Committee, formed to
determine if Phoenix area aviation needs better served by
regional or reliever airport, recommended Williams AFB be used
as reliever airport. Luke favored recommendation as regional
airport (at Casa Grande) could have affected access to range.
1 July 1993 58th Fighter Wing reassigned from ACC to Air Education and
Training Command (AETC) in move to place all training units in
AETC. Wing's lone operational unit, 607th Air Control
Squadron, remained in ACC and reassigned to Davis-Monthan
AFB but based at Luke as a tenant.
22 September 1993 Work began on $12 million Dysart Canal project to protect base
from future flooding.
9 October 1993 Luke and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed
agreement putting base on road to full environmental compliance.
23 October 1993 Range Management Office established as a wing staff agency to
manage operations, scheduling, maintenance of range.
15 November 1993 USAF announced F-15E to move to Seymour Johnson AFB,
North Carolina, in 1995 due to facilities saturation at Luke.
Move being made to accommodate Taiwan AF F-16 training
program and an F-16 international flying training activity (IFTA).
23 December 1993 EPA policy change requiring federal projects conform to state
environmental requirements resulted in AETC issuing
moratorium on bed down of additional F-16s at Luke.
Moratorium in effect until assessment completed to determine
effects of bed down on environment.
31 December 1993 All 58th Fighter Wing jets equipped with Pratt and Whitney 200
engine retrofitted with 220E engine in move to decrease engine
maintenance and enhance safety.
224
10 February 1994 First female fighter pilot in USAF history, 1st Lt Jeannie M.
Flynn, completed F-15E basic course with 555th Fighter
Squadron.
28 February 1994 In move to ensure most highly decorated units remained in active
fighter force during period of military drawdown, USAF directed
56th Fighter Wing be reassigned from scheduled-to-close
MacDill AFB, Florida, to Luke, effective 1 April 1994. 56th to
move without personnel/equipment and take over 58th Fighter
Wing assets/ mission.
10 March 1994 Environmental assessment/conformity analysis completed and
revealed basing of additional F-16s at Luke would have no
significant impact. Assessment resulted in lifting of moratorium
on bed down of additional F-16s at Luke (see entry 23 December
1993).
18 March 1994 62d Fighter Squadron activated at Luke as Block 25 F-16C/D
training unit.
25 March 1994 555th Fighter Squadron inactivated and 550th Fighter Squadron
activated to assume 555th Fighter Squadron' assets/mission and
complete F-15E program transfer.
225
1 April 1994 58th Fighter Wing redesignated a special operations wing and
reassigned to Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. Most 58-numbered
units inactivated as did the 311th Fighter Squadron and
314th Fighter Squadron. 56th Fighter Wing moved from MacDill
AFB to Luke AFB and assumed assets/mission of 58th Fighter
Wing. 308th Fighter Squadron moved from Moody AFB, GA, to
Luke and assigned to 56th Fighter Wing. All 56-numbered
groups and squadrons, including four new medical squadrons,
activated and assigned to 56th Fighter Wing as were the
61st Fighter Squadron and 309th Fighter Squadron.
Additionally, the 62d Fighter Squadron, 63d Fighter Squadron,
310th Fighter Squadron, 425th Fighter Squadron, 461st Fighter
Squadron, and 550th Fighter Squadron were reassigned from
58th Fighter Wing to 56th Fighter Wing.
Luke chronology joins with that of 56th Fighter Wing, effective 1 April 1994 on page 15.
Seven North American AT-6 Texans from Luke Field in formation
over the Agua Fria River during World War II.
226
Luke Field/AFB Commanders
Luke Field
Date Assigned
Lt Col (later Brig Gen) Ennis C. Whitehead 21 April 1941 (Lieutenant General)
Col Ross G. Hoyt 13 July 1942 (Brigadier General)
Lt Col Lester R. Harris 13 February 1943
Col John K. Nissley 19 March 1943
Lt Col Graham M. Bates 28 July 1944
Col John K. Nissley 5 October 1944
Col Lance Call 9 January 1945
Col John M. Davies 14 April 1945
Col Graham M. Bates 5 July 1945
Lt Col Howard J. Bechtel 10 September 1945
Col Lance Call 27 October 1945
Col J. Garret Jackson 9 November 1945
Col Gladwyn E. Pinkston
10 December 1945 (Brigadier General)
Luke Field Inactivated 30 November 1946.
127th Pilot Training Wing (1 January 1951 – 1 November 1952)
Luke Removed from Inactive List 1 January 1951
Col Henry J. Amen 1 February 1951
Col Thomas L. Mosley 15 October 1951-1 November 1952.
3600th Flying Training Wing (1 November 1952 – 1 July 1958
Col Thomas L. Mosley 1 November 1952
Brig Gen Charles F. Born 15 November 1952 (Major General)
Brig Gen Turner C. Rogers 15 August 1953 (Major General)
Brig Gen Robert L. Scott, Jr 1 October 1956
Col Warren H. Higgens 1 October 1957–1 July 1958.
4510th Combat Crew Training Wing (1 July 1958 – 15 October 1969)
Col Warren H. Higgens 1 July 1958
Col (later, Brig Gen) James W. Chapman, Jr 18 January 1959
Col Bingham T. Kleine 24 June 1961
Col Augustus M. Hendry, Jr 1 November 1963 (Major General)
Col Arthur Small 16 May 1966
Col Gerald Brown 1 July 1967
Col Richard C. Catledge 1 November 1967 (Major General)
Col John J. Burns 1 October 1969 – 15 October 1969.
(Lieutenant General)
227
58th Tactical Fighter Training Wing (15 October 1969 – 1 April 1977)
Col John J. Burns
15 October 1969 (Lieutenant General)
Col John S. Clarke, Jr 26 June 1970 1169
Col (later, Brig Gen) Albert L. Melton 31 August 1972
Col Fred A. Haeffner 15 August 1974–1 April 1977. 1170
(Major General)
Tactical Training Luke (1 April 1977 – 1 December 1980) 1171
Brig Gen (later Maj Gen) Fred A. Haeffner 1 April 1977 1172
Col (later Brig Gen) John F. O'Donnell 10 June 1977
Brig Gen John L. Pickitt 17 July 1978 (Lieutenant General)
Brig Gen William A. Gorton 3 January 1980. 1173 – 1 December 1980
(Major General)
832d Air Division (1 December 1980 – 1 October 1991)
Brig Gen William A. Gorton 1 December 1980 (Major General)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Michael J. Dugan 31 March 1981 1174 (General, CSAF)
Col (later, Brig Gen) Henry D. Canterbury 12 May 1982 1175
(Major General)
Col Daniel J. Sherlock 14 December 1984 1176