494th Fighter Squadron

The 494th Fighter Squadron, known as the "Panthers," was originally activated in 1941 as part of the United States Army Air Forces. During World War II, the squadron flew combat missions in the European Theater, providing crucial support in the Normandy invasion and subsequent campaigns. Reactivated during the Cold War, the 494th became a key component of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, operating from RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom. Today, the squadron flies the F-35A Lightning II, maintaining its legacy of excellence in air combat and supporting NATO operations.