432 Tactical Recon Wing

• Formation and Early Years: The 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (TRW) was activated in 1953 at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, as part of the United States Air Force's post-World War II expansion and modernization. • Vietnam War Service: The 432nd TRW is best known for its service during the Vietnam War, where it was based at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, beginning in 1966. • Reconnaissance Missions: The wing's primary mission was tactical reconnaissance, collecting intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and activities using aircraft such as the RF-4C Phantom II. • Combat Achievements: The 432nd TRW flew tens of thousands of combat sorties over North Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, providing critical information for targeting and assessing the results of airstrikes. • MiG Killers: Uniquely, the wing's reconnaissance aircraft, though not intended for air-to-air combat, occasionally shot down enemy MiG fighters during the conflict, with RF-4C crews credited with at least one MiG kill. • Electronic Warfare: The 432nd also operated EB-66 electronic warfare aircraft, which provided jamming and suppression of enemy radar and communications. • Special Operations: The wing conducted covert and classified missions, including photo reconnaissance of high-value targets and search-and-rescue support for downed pilots. • Decorations: The 432nd TRW received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and was highly decorated for its achievements during the Vietnam War. • Post-Vietnam Roles: After the Vietnam War, the wing continued to support reconnaissance operations in Southeast Asia until its inactivation at Udorn in 1975. • Legacy: The heritage and honors of the 432nd TRW were later carried on by the 432nd Wing, which today operates as a remotely piloted aircraft (drone) wing at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada.