644th Radar Squadron

The 644th Radar Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1948 as part of the nation’s growing air defense network during the early years of the Cold War. Stationed at various locations, including Richmond AFS, Florida, and later at Patrick Air Force Base, the squadron operated ground radar systems to detect, track, and identify potential airborne threats. As a component of the Air Defense Command, the 644th played a key role in safeguarding the southeastern approaches to the United States against possible Soviet bomber incursions. The unit was inactivated in 1968 as advances in technology and changes in air defense strategy led to the consolidation and closure of many radar sites.