About this Unit
The 339th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) was originally activated during World War II as the 339th Fighter Squadron, part of the 347th Fighter Group, and saw action in the Pacific Theater flying P-38 Lightnings. After several periods of inactivation and reactivation, the squadron was redesignated as the 339th TFS and assigned to the 347th Tactical Fighter Wing during the Cold War. The unit operated a variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, and participated in combat operations during the Vietnam War, providing air superiority and ground attack missions. The squadron was eventually inactivated in the late 1970s as part of a broader reorganization of U.S. Air Force tactical units.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 339th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) traces its roots to World War II, originally constituted as the 339th Fighter Squadron in 1942.
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Part of the 347th Fighter Group: In WWII, the 339th was assigned to the 347th Fighter Group and operated in the Pacific Theater, primarily flying missions in the Solomon Islands and later in the Philippines.
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P-38 Lightning Operations: During WWII, the unit flew the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, a twin-engine fighter known for its versatility in both air-to-air and ground-attack missions.
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Notable Aces: Several pilots from the 339th became aces, including Major Richard I. Bong, America’s top-scoring ace, who flew with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific.
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Vietnam War Service: The 339th TFS was reactivated and deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, flying the F-105 Thunderchief "Thud" in combat missions over North Vietnam.
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“Misty” Fast FAC Role: Pilots from the squadron participated in the famous “Misty” Forward Air Controller (FAC) program, conducting dangerous low-level reconnaissance over North Vietnam.
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Stationed at Da Nang and Takhli: The squadron was based at Da Nang Air Base in South Vietnam and Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand during different periods of the Vietnam conflict.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The 339th TFS received the Distinguished Unit Citation and several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its valor and effectiveness in combat operations.
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Transition to Modern Aircraft: After the Vietnam War, the squadron transitioned to flying the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, reflecting the modernization of USAF tactical fighter units.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The 339th TFS was inactivated in 1970, but its lineage and honors are preserved within the Air Force’s organizational history, embodying decades of distinguished service.
