87 fighter interceptor squadron

• Origins in World War II: The 87th Fighter Interceptor Squadron was originally activated as the 87th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) in January 1942, part of the 79th Pursuit Group. • North Africa Campaign: The squadron saw action in North Africa during World War II, supporting Allied operations in Tunisia and later the invasion of Italy. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its lifetime, the 87th flew numerous aircraft, including the P-40 Warhawk, P-47 Thunderbolt, F-86 Sabre, F-86D/L Sabre Dog, and the F-106 Delta Dart. • Distinguished Unit: The 87th earned multiple honors for its performance during WWII, including a Distinguished Unit Citation for actions over Italy. • Cold War Role: Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron was tasked with air defense of the United States, standing alert to intercept potential Soviet bombers. • Defending the Midwest: In the 1960s and 1970s, the 87th was based at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan, protecting the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region. • Famous Interception: The squadron was involved in several high-profile intercepts of Soviet aircraft that approached U.S. airspace during the Cold War. • Last Active Fighter Interceptor Squadron: When it was inactivated in 1985, the 87th was one of the last active duty squadrons flying the F-106 Delta Dart. • Distinctive Insignia: The 87th was known for its unique squadron patch, featuring a fierce "Red Bull" emblem symbolizing its fighting spirit. • Legacy and Reunions: Former members of the 87th maintain an active alumni group, preserving the unit’s legacy through reunions and historical projects.