62nd Fighter Squadron

• World War II Origins: The 62nd Fighter Squadron was activated on 15 January 1941 as part of the 56th Pursuit Group and trained with P-39 Airacobras before transitioning to the famous P-47 Thunderbolt. • “Zemke’s Wolfpack”: The 62nd was a key component of the legendary “Zemke’s Wolfpack” under Col. Hubert Zemke, a group renowned for its aggressive tactics and high kill rates against the Luftwaffe. • Ace Pilots: The squadron produced several aces during WWII, including Francis “Gabby” Gabreski, one of America’s leading aces with 28 aerial victories. • D-Day and Beyond: The 62nd provided fighter escort for bombers during the D-Day invasion and supported ground troops in the breakout from Normandy. • Postwar Inactivation and Reactivation: After WWII, the 62nd was inactivated but reactivated in 1946 to serve in the early years of the Cold War, transitioning through several aircraft including the F-80 Shooting Star and F-86 Sabre. • Jet Age Transition: The squadron became one of the first to fly the F-104 Starfighter and later operated the F-4 Phantom II during the Vietnam War era. • Training the Best: Since 1983, the 62nd has served as a formal training unit, teaching pilots to fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. • First F-35 Training Squadron: The 62nd was among the first squadrons to begin formal training for the F-35A Lightning II, preparing new generations of pilots for the Air Force’s most advanced fighter. • Decorated Unit: The squadron has earned multiple Distinguished Unit Citations and Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its combat and training excellence. • Mascot and Motto: The 62nd Fighter Squadron’s mascot is the “Spikes,” and their motto is “Make it Happen!”, reflecting their can-do spirit throughout decades of service.