About this Unit
The 48th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (48th FIS) was an active United States Air Force unit primarily tasked with air defense missions during the Cold War. Originally constituted as the 48th Pursuit Squadron in 1940, it served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, flying various aircraft including the P-40 Warhawk and P-47 Thunderbolt. Reactivated during the Korean War era, the squadron transitioned to jet interceptors such as the F-86 Sabre and later the F-106 Delta Dart, defending the northeastern United States from potential aerial threats. The 48th FIS was inactivated in 1987 as part of the drawdown of air defense forces.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Years: The 48th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (48th FIS) was originally activated during World War II on 15 January 1941, as the 48th Pursuit Squadron, part of the 14th Pursuit Group.
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World War II Service: The unit served in the Mediterranean Theater, flying P-38 Lightnings and conducting escort and ground attack missions in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy.
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Distinguished Unit Citation: The 48th FIS received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its participation in the invasion of southern France (Operation Dragoon) in August 1944.
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Cold War Re-activation: The squadron was reactivated in 1947 as part of the U.S. Air Defense Command, focusing on the air defense of the northeastern United States.
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Interceptor Aircraft: Over its service, the 48th FIS operated a variety of interceptor jets, including the F-86 Sabre, F-89 Scorpion, F-94 Starfire, and the supersonic F-106 Delta Dart.
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Langley Air Force Base: The squadron was based at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, for a significant part of its Cold War history, protecting the airspace over Washington, D.C., and the eastern U.S. seaboard.
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Scramble Missions: During the Cold War, the 48th FIS regularly scrambled aircraft to intercept unidentified or hostile aircraft approaching U.S. airspace, often responding to Soviet bomber probes.
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Emblem and Motto: The 48th FIS adopted the nickname "Green Knights" and used a distinctive unit patch featuring a green knight’s helmet, symbolizing vigilance and readiness.
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Notable Pilots: The squadron counted among its members several aces and notable pilots, including WWII ace Col. Charles E. "Chuck" Yeager, who later became famous for breaking the sound barrier.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The 48th FIS was finally inactivated on 30 June 1987, but its legacy continues through the units and airmen who served with distinction under its banner.
