87th FIS

• Origins in World War II: The 87th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (FIS) was originally activated as the 87th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) on 9 February 1942, serving as part of the 79th Fighter Group during World War II. • Mediterranean Theater Operations: During WWII, the 87th FIS was deployed to the Mediterranean, where it flew missions in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and southern France, contributing to the Allied efforts. • Flying the P-40 Warhawk and P-47 Thunderbolt: The squadron was equipped with notable aircraft such as the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk and later the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt during WWII, participating in both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. • Decorations for Valor: The 87th FIS earned two Distinguished Unit Citations for its extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance during combat operations in Italy and France. • Cold War Reactivation: Reactivated during the Cold War in 1952, the 87th FIS became a critical part of the United States’ air defense network, initially stationed at Sioux City AFB, Iowa. • Interceptor Aircraft Evolution: Over its service, the squadron operated a series of cutting-edge interceptors, including the F-86D Sabre, F-86L Sabre, F-102 Delta Dagger, and F-106 Delta Dart, reflecting advances in jet technology and air defense tactics. • Homestead AFB Era: The unit was stationed at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, from 1960 until its inactivation in 1985, playing a key role in defending the southeastern United States and monitoring airspace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. • Cuban Missile Crisis Standby: During the tense days of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the 87th FIS was placed on high alert, prepared to intercept any hostile aircraft entering U.S. airspace from Cuba. • Distinctive Squadron Insignia: The 87th FIS was known for its eye-catching squadron patch featuring a cartoonish, saber-toothed tiger riding a missile, symbolizing their aggressive interceptor mission. • Final Inactivation: The squadron was inactivated on 1 October 1985 as the Air Defense Command structure was reorganized and the threat of Soviet bomber attacks diminished with the end of the Cold War.