526 cc&s

• Unit Name: The 526th Combat Crew & Squadron (CC&S) is often referenced in relation to the 526th Fighter Squadron, a historic U.S. Air Force unit. • World War II Origins: The 526th was first activated during World War II as part of the 86th Fighter Group and participated in several key campaigns in the Mediterranean Theater. • D-Day Operations: The squadron provided close air support during the Allied invasion of southern France (Operation Dragoon) in 1944. • Distinguished Service: The unit earned multiple Distinguished Unit Citations for its operations in Italy and France, recognizing its extraordinary heroism in combat. • Aircraft Operated: Over its history, the squadron flew aircraft including the P-47 Thunderbolt, F-84 Thunderjet, F-86 Sabre, F-100 Super Sabre, and F-4 Phantom II. • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the 526th was stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, as part of NATO’s forward defense strategy in Europe. • "Black Knights" Nickname: The 526th was known as the "Black Knights," a title reflected in its unit insignia and traditions. • Transition to F-16s: In the 1980s, the squadron transitioned to flying F-16 Fighting Falcons, enhancing its role in both air defense and ground attack missions. • Gulf War Service: Elements of the squadron deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, providing air superiority and ground attack capabilities. • Inactivation and Legacy: The 526th Fighter Squadron was inactivated in 1994, but its legacy continues through its veterans and historical commemorations at Ramstein Air Base.