About this Unit
The 355th Fighter Squadron (355th FS), known as the "Fightin' Falcons," was activated in November 1942 and distinguished itself during World War II as part of the Eighth Air Force in Europe, flying P-47 Thunderbolts and later P-51 Mustangs on bomber escort and ground attack missions. After World War II, the squadron was inactivated and reactivated several times, participating in the Vietnam War operating F-105 Thunderchiefs out of Thailand. Over the decades, the 355th FS has flown a variety of aircraft, including the A-10 Thunderbolt II, supporting close air support missions. Today, the squadron remains an integral part of the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, and continues its legacy of excellence in fighter operations.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 355th Fighter Squadron (FS) was activated on 15 November 1942 at Hamilton Field, California, and initially flew the P-39 Airacobra before transitioning to the P-51 Mustang.
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European Theater Success: During World War II, the 355th FS became part of the famed 354th Fighter Group, known as the "Pioneer Mustang Group," and provided long-range bomber escort missions deep into Germany.
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Ace-Producing Unit: The 355th FS produced several aces during WWII, including Lt. Col. Glenn E. Duncan, who scored 19.5 aerial victories before being shot down and joining the French Resistance.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The squadron was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation for its performance during a massive air battle over Leipzig, Germany, on 24 April 1944, where it downed numerous enemy fighters.
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Cold War Reactivation: After WWII, the squadron was inactivated but later reactivated during the Cold War, flying F-100 Super Sabres, F-105 Thunderchiefs, and F-4 Phantom IIs as part of Tactical Air Command.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The 355th FS served in the Vietnam War, conducting air-to-ground missions and close air support, earning multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.
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Modernization with A-10: In 1978, the 355th FS became one of the first units to transition to the A-10 Thunderbolt II ("Warthog"), specializing in close air support for ground forces.
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Operation Desert Storm: The squadron deployed to the Middle East in 1991, flying numerous combat missions during Operation Desert Storm and providing critical support for coalition ground forces.
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Alaskan Assignment: The 355th FS has been based at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, supporting both Arctic and Pacific defense missions and participating in major joint exercises like Red Flag-Alaska.
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Recent Deployments: In the 21st century, the "Fighting Falcons" of the 355th FS have supported operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations, continuing their tradition of close air support and joint-force integration.
