15th Tac Recon

• Origins in World War II: The 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron was originally constituted during World War II, primarily serving under the United States Army Air Forces. • European Theater Operations: The squadron played a key role in the European Theater, conducting photographic reconnaissance missions that aided Allied planning and operations. • Aircraft Used: The unit flew several aircraft types, including the F-6 (a reconnaissance version of the P-51 Mustang) and the F-5 (a reconnaissance version of the P-38 Lightning). • Support for D-Day: The 15th Tac Recon provided vital intelligence and imagery in preparation for the D-Day landings in Normandy, mapping enemy positions and fortifications. • Postwar Redesignation: After World War II, the unit was inactivated and later reactivated and redesignated multiple times as military needs shifted. • Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the squadron was equipped with jet-powered reconnaissance aircraft, such as the RF-84F Thunderflash and RF-101 Voodoo. • Cuban Missile Crisis: Elements of the 15th Tac Recon were involved in aerial reconnaissance missions during the Cuban Missile Crisis, helping confirm Soviet missile deployments. • Vietnam War Service: The squadron provided tactical reconnaissance in Southeast Asia, supporting U.S. and allied ground forces with imagery and intelligence. • Decorations and Honors: The unit and its members received numerous commendations, including Distinguished Unit Citations for outstanding performance under fire. • Legacy and Inactivation: The 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron was eventually inactivated, but its lineage and honors are preserved in successor units and Air Force history.