About this Unit
The 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron (91st SRS) traces its origins to World War II, when it was activated as the 91st Reconnaissance Squadron in 1941. Throughout the Cold War, the unit played a critical role in intelligence-gathering missions, operating high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft such as the U-2 and SR-71 Blackbird. The squadron was pivotal in providing vital photographic and electronic intelligence, particularly during tense periods like the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War. Today, the 91st SRS continues its legacy under the Air Combat Command, supporting national security with advanced reconnaissance capabilities.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War I: The 91st Squadron was first activated as the 91st Aero Squadron in August 1917, serving in France during World War I as a reconnaissance unit.
•
Distinguished Service: The squadron earned two French Croix de Guerre with Palm and a French Fourragere for its service during World War I.
•
Famous Alumni: Eddie Rickenbacker, America’s top World War I ace, served briefly with the 91st before commanding the 94th Aero Squadron, and many famous aviators have been associated with the unit.
•
Strategic Reconnaissance Redesignation: The 91st has been redesignated several times, but its key role as a Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS) has been central since the Cold War era.
•
Cold War Missions: During the Cold War, the 91st SRS operated aircraft like the RB-45 Tornado and RB-47 Stratojet, conducting critical intelligence-gathering and reconnaissance missions over hostile territories.
•
SR-71 Blackbird Era: The 91st SRS famously flew the SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest jet-powered aircraft ever built, conducting high-altitude reconnaissance from the late 1960s until the 1990s.
•
U-2 Dragon Lady Operations: The unit currently operates the U-2S, one of the world’s most iconic high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft, supporting global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
•
Global Reach: The 91st SRS has participated in operations all over the world, including in the Middle East, Balkans, and Asia, providing vital intelligence for both peacetime and combat operations.
•
Emblem and Motto: The 91st SRS emblem features a winged globe and camera, reflecting its global reconnaissance mission, and its motto is "Always Out Front."
•
Beale Air Force Base: The squadron is currently based at Beale Air Force Base, California, and is a part of the 9th Reconnaissance Wing, maintaining a vital role in U.S. Air Force intelligence gathering.
