313th Troop Carrier Squadron

• World War II Activation: The 313th Troop Carrier Squadron was activated on 1 October 1943, during the height of World War II, as part of the United States Army Air Forces. • Role in Airborne Operations: The squadron played a critical role in transporting troops, supplies, and equipment for airborne operations in the European Theater, supporting major Allied campaigns. • Assigned Aircraft: The unit primarily flew the C-47 Skytrain, a workhorse transport aircraft that became iconic for its role in paratrooper drops and resupply missions. • Participation in D-Day: The 313th Troop Carrier Squadron participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, dropping paratroopers behind enemy lines to initiate the liberation of Western Europe. • Operation Market Garden: In September 1944, the squadron took part in Operation Market Garden, a major airborne assault aimed at securing key bridges in the Netherlands. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The squadron received the Distinguished Unit Citation for its outstanding performance during combat operations in World War II. • Postwar Activity: After World War II, the 313th Troop Carrier Squadron was inactivated in July 1945, but was soon reactivated in the Air Force Reserve in 1947. • Korean War Mobilization: The squadron was called to active duty during the Korean War, supporting airlift operations and training missions between 1951 and 1953. • Assignments: Throughout its service, the squadron was assigned to several key groups and wings, including the 349th Troop Carrier Group and later the 313th Troop Carrier Group. • Legacy and Inactivation: The 313th Troop Carrier Squadron was finally inactivated on 14 July 1957, but its lineage is preserved in the proud history of U.S. Air Force airlift operations.