362 TEWS

• Unit Designation and Role: The 362nd Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (TEWS) was primarily tasked with electronic warfare missions, specializing in electronic countermeasures during the Vietnam War. • Vietnam War Service: The 362nd TEWS was activated at Pleiku Air Base, South Vietnam, in 1966, becoming an essential component of the United States Air Force’s efforts in Southeast Asia. • Primary Aircraft: The squadron flew the Douglas EC-47, a modified version of the C-47 "Skytrain" equipped for electronic intelligence (ELINT) and electronic warfare operations. • “Electric Goon” Nickname: The EC-47s operated by the 362nd TEWS were nicknamed "Electric Goons" due to their electronic gear and the original C-47’s nickname, "Gooney Bird." • Mission Purpose: The squadron’s main mission was to intercept and locate enemy radio transmissions, providing valuable intelligence for air strikes and ground operations against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. • Flight Hours and Missions: The 362nd TEWS logged thousands of combat missions and flight hours, often flying in dangerous conditions under threat from enemy anti-aircraft fire. • Integration with Army Units: The intelligence gathered by the 362nd TEWS was directly relayed to Army units in the field, significantly improving the effectiveness of U.S. and allied operations. • Unit Losses: The squadron lost several aircraft and crew members during operations, highlighting the risks involved in electronic warfare missions over hostile territory. • Awards and Recognition: For its service, the 362nd TEWS received numerous unit citations and commendations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. • Deactivation: The squadron was inactivated in 1972 as U.S. involvement in Vietnam wound down, but its legacy in tactical electronic warfare continues to influence USAF operations today.