55th Weather Recon Squadron

• Origins in World War II: The 55th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron (WRS) traces its roots back to 1944, when it was activated during World War II as the 655th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy, Weather Reconnaissance). • Role in Hurricane Hunting: The 55th WRS became famous for its role as a “Hurricane Hunter” squadron, flying into the eyes of hurricanes to collect vital meteorological data for forecasting and military operations. • First Military Hurricane Penetration: In 1946, aircraft from the squadron were among the first to intentionally fly directly into a hurricane, beginning the tradition of military hurricane reconnaissance flights. • Aircraft Variety: Over its history, the squadron operated a wide range of aircraft, including the B-17 Flying Fortress, WB-29, WB-50, WC-121, and the WC-135 “Constant Phoenix.” • Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the 55th WRS was tasked with sampling radiation in the atmosphere from nuclear tests and tracking radioactive fallout from foreign nuclear events. • Global Operations: The squadron conducted weather reconnaissance missions worldwide, including the North Atlantic, Pacific, and even Arctic regions, supporting both military and civilian weather forecasting. • Operation Ivy and Mike: The 55th WRS played a key role in Operation Ivy, which included the first hydrogen bomb test (“Mike Shot”) in 1952, by flying into the nuclear clouds to collect radioactive samples. • Support for NASA: The squadron supported NASA’s space missions, including providing weather reconnaissance for launches and recovery operations in the early years of the U.S. space program. • Decorations and Awards: The 55th WRS received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and was recognized for its hazardous missions in extreme weather and radioactive environments. • Deactivation and Legacy: The squadron was finally inactivated in 1993, but its legacy continues with the tradition of “Weather Warriors” and the ongoing work of Air Force weather reconnaissance units.