363 Tac Recon Wing

• Origins: The 363rd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (363rd TRW) was initially activated as the 363rd Fighter Wing on 1 August 1947 at Langley Field, Virginia. • Korean War Role: During the Korean War, the wing was briefly inactivated, but its squadrons and personnel contributed to USAF operations in support of the conflict. • Cold War Reconnaissance: Redesignated as the 363rd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing in 1951, the unit became a key player in aerial reconnaissance throughout the Cold War, utilizing advanced aircraft to gather intelligence on potential adversaries. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its operational period, the 363rd TRW flew a variety of iconic reconnaissance aircraft including the RF-80 Shooting Star, RF-84 Thunderflash, RF-101 Voodoo, and the RF-4C Phantom II. • Cuban Missile Crisis: The wing was involved in vital reconnaissance flights during the Cuban Missile Crisis, providing photographic evidence of Soviet missile installations in Cuba. • Vietnam War Deployments: Elements of the 363rd TRW were deployed to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, conducting hazardous low-level reconnaissance missions over enemy territory. • Desert Storm Participation: The 363rd TRW provided significant reconnaissance support during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, flying RF-4C Phantoms to gather crucial intelligence on Iraqi forces. • Base Locations: The wing was most famously stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, from 1951 until its inactivation in 1993. • Decorations: The unit earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and campaign streamers for its service in multiple conflicts and crises. • Legacy: After its inactivation in 1993, the 363rd's legacy continues through its assigned units, many of which remain active in modern reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering roles.