795th AC&W Squadron

• Activation and Role: The 795th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron was activated on 1 May 1951, playing a crucial role in the United States’ early Cold War air defense network. • Strategic Location: The squadron was stationed at Highlands Air Force Station, New Jersey, providing radar coverage for the densely populated and industrialized Northeast corridor of the United States. • Radar Operations: The unit operated General Surveillance Radar, tracking both friendly and potentially hostile aircraft as part of the Air Defense Command's mission. • Integration with SAGE: In the late 1950s, the squadron became part of the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system, which revolutionized air defense by linking radar sites to centralized computer centers. • 24/7 Vigilance: Squadron personnel worked around the clock, maintaining constant surveillance and readiness during the tense years of the Cold War. • Disaster Response: The squadron occasionally assisted civil authorities, providing radar tracking and communications support during search and rescue operations along the Atlantic coast. • Unit Decorations: The 795th AC&W Squadron received commendations for their efficiency and performance in various air defense exercises and readiness inspections. • Technological Upgrades: During its service, the squadron saw several upgrades to its radar equipment, including the installation of AN/FPS-20 search radars and height-finder radars. • Deactivation: The squadron was inactivated on 1 August 1963, as advancements in radar technology and changes in air defense strategy led to the consolidation of radar sites. • Enduring Legacy: The 795th AC&W Squadron played a significant part in the United States’ continental air defense during a critical period, ensuring the safety and security of millions of Americans during the Cold War.