787th Radar Squadron

• Activation and Timeline: The 787th Radar Squadron was first activated in 1951 and served until 1980, playing a crucial role during the Cold War era. • Location: The squadron was stationed at Chandler Air Force Station, located near Chandler, Minnesota, providing air defense coverage for the upper Midwest. • Air Defense Command: The 787th was part of the Air Defense Command, tasked with detecting and tracking potential enemy aircraft entering North American airspace. • SAGE Integration: In 1961, the squadron was integrated into the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system, a revolutionary computerized air defense network. • Radar Equipment: The unit operated several radar systems over its history, including the AN/FPS-20, AN/FPS-66, and AN/FPS-27 search radars, as well as height-finder radars like the AN/FPS-6. • Gap Filler Sites: The 787th managed several unmanned "Gap Filler" radar sites in the region to fill low-altitude coverage gaps, including those at Sherburn, MN; Winnebago, MN; and New Ulm, MN. • Emblem: The unit’s emblem featured a vigilant bald eagle, symbolizing readiness and protection of American skies. • Deactivation: Due to advances in radar and satellite technology and changing defense priorities, the squadron was inactivated on 30 September 1980. • Legacy: Although deactivated, the site’s facilities still stand today and are sometimes used by local government agencies or for civilian purposes. • Community Impact: The presence of the 787th Radar Squadron provided a significant economic and social boost to Chandler and surrounding communities during its years of operation.