{"history":[],"article":{"id":"5bcd452a-36bb-4174-a22c-b13a93c83a99","title":"90th Fighter Squadron","slug":"90th-fighter-squadron","content":":::summary\n![U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to the 90th Fighter Squadron](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81/90th///Fighter///Squadron///-///F-22s.jpg)\n**Unit Name:** 90th Fighter Squadron · Pacific Air Forces.png \n**Image Size:** 300 \n**Dates:** 20 August 1917 – 1 October 1949 · 25 June 1951 – present \n**Country:** 🇺🇸 \n**Role:** Air Superiority \n**Size:** Squadron \n**Current Commander:** Lt Col Ryan \"Rase\" Graf \n**Command Structure:** [Pacific Air Forces](https://bliptext.com/articles/pacific-air-forces) · [Eleventh Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/eleventh-air-force) · [3rd Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/3rd-wing) · [3rd Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/3rd-operations-group) \n**Garrison:** [Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson](https://bliptext.com/articles/joint-base-elmendorf-richardson), Alaska \n**Nickname:** The Dicemen \n**Colors:** Red \n**Equipment:** \"AK\" \n**Equipment Label:** Fuselage Code \n**Battles:** World War I War Service Streamer without inscription.png
World War I · WW II American Campaign (Antisubmarine) Streamer.jpg
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World War II - Asia-Pacific Theater · Korean Service Medal - Streamer.png
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Vietnam War · Streamer AFE.PNG
Vietnam Ceasefire · Streamer AFE.PNG
Operation Deny Flight
Operation Joint Endeavor
Operation Northern Watch, · Streamer AFGCS.PNG
Afghanistan Campaign \n**Decorations:** Streamer PUC Army.PNG
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Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat \"V\" Device (5x) · US Air Force Outstanding Unit Award - Stremer.jpg
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Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm \n**Notable Commanders:** [Hoyt S. Vandenberg](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoyt-s-vandenberg) · [Nathan F. Twining](https://bliptext.com/articles/nathan-f-twining) · [Richard H. Ellis](https://bliptext.com/articles/richard-h-ellis) \n**Identification Symbol:** 90th Fighter Squadron.png \n**Identification Symbol Label:** 90th Fighter Squadron emblem \n:::\n\n# \nThe **90th Fighter Squadron** is a squadron of the [United States Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-air-force).\nIt is assigned to the [3d Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/3d-operations-group), 3d Wing, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, [Pacific Air Forces](https://bliptext.com/articles/pacific-air-forces).\nThe squadron is equipped with the [F-22 Raptor](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-22-raptor) [fighter](https://bliptext.com/articles/fighter-aircraft).\nThe 90 FS is one of the oldest units in the United States Air Force, first being organized as the **90th Aero Squadron** on 20 August 1917 at [Kelly Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/kelly-field), Texas.\nThe squadron deployed to France and fought on the [Western Front](https://bliptext.com/articles/western-front-world-war-i) during World War I as a Corps observation squadron.\nDuring World War II, the unit earned the [Distinguished Unit Citation](https://bliptext.com/articles/distinguished-unit-citation) and the [Presidential Unit Citation](https://bliptext.com/articles/presidential-unit-citation-united-states) for its services in the [Pacific Theater of Operations](https://bliptext.com/articles/asiatic-pacific-theater) (PTO) as part of [Fifth Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/fifth-air-force).\nDuring the [Cold War](https://bliptext.com/articles/cold-war) the squadron fought in the [Korean War](https://bliptext.com/articles/korean-war) and [Vietnam War](https://bliptext.com/articles/vietnam-war).\n\n# Mission\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron trains in the fighter missions of [offensive counter-air (OCA)](https://bliptext.com/articles/offensive-counter-air) and defensive counter-air (DCA), as well as strategic attack and interdiction.\n\n# History\n\n## World War I\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron origins begin with Special Order 104, Headquarters [Kelly Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/kelly-field), San Antonio, Texas, on 25 September 1917.\nThe men in it were largely from two detachments; one from [Vancouver Barracks](https://bliptext.com/articles/vancouver-barracks), Washington, which arrived at Kelly Field on 18 August; another from [Fort Leavenworth](https://bliptext.com/articles/fort-leavenworth), Kansas, which arrived on 25 August.\nBoth of these detachments had been held from the date of their arrival until 25 September under Recruit Camp Headquarters as a Provisional Squadron.\nThe first few months of its existence were consumed by the necessary training to prepare the men for operations in France during [World War I](https://bliptext.com/articles/world-war-i).\nOn 30 September, the squadron left Kelly Field for the Aviation Concentration Center, [Camp Mills](https://bliptext.com/articles/camp-mills), Garden City, New York,\nLong Island, where it arrived five days later.\nOn the night of 5 October the squadron detrained, and early next morning hiked out to Field No. 2 of the Aviation Concentration Center ([Hazelhurst Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/hazelhurst-field)), where they were quartered with the Headquarters of the First Provisional Wing in Barracks No. 5. Here they stayed for several weeks performing guard duty and fatigue work, and carrying on the work of organization, equipment and preparation for overseas duty.\nOn 26 October, orders were received to pack up equipment and to prepare for immediate overseas departure.\nThe following day the squadron was moved to Pier 54, New York Harbor,\nand boarded the [SS Orduña](https://bliptext.com/articles/ss-ordu-a).\nThe crossing of the Atlantic was uneventful, and on 10 November the Orduna moved into the dock at [Liverpool](https://bliptext.com/articles/liverpool), England.\nOn 12 November 1917 the men of the 90th arrived at [Le Havre](https://bliptext.com/articles/le-havre), France.\nBoarding the famous \"Hommes 40, Chevaux 8\" railroad box cars (maximum capacity of 40 men or eight horses,) they were shipped to [Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome](https://bliptext.com/articles/colombey-les-belles-airdrome) for what they thought would be immediate deployment to the front.\nBut, to their great disappointment, they were given the assignment of road and barracks construction work, building the large 1st Air Depot and staging area which would eventually process and equip a large number of Americans that would arrive in France during 1918.\nAfter seven months at Colombey, the 90th Aero Squadron was designed as a Corps Observation squadron, being assigned to the [III Corps Observation Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/iii-corps-observation-group) on 11 June 1918.\nTwo days later it reached what was called the \"Zone of Advance\" (combat area) at [Ourches Aerodrome](https://bliptext.com/articles/ourches-aerodrome).\nThe squadron's first aircraft were the [Sopwith 1½ Strutter](https://bliptext.com/articles/sopwith-1-strutter) ground attack aircraft.\nAt Ourches, the 90th and other squadrons were engaged in combat operations, both in aerial combat and aerial reconnaissance photography.\nIt took part in operations in the Toul Sector, the [Battle of Saint-Mihiel](https://bliptext.com/articles/battle-of-saint-mihiel) and the first and second [Meuse-Argonne Offensives](https://bliptext.com/articles/meuse-argonne-offensive).\nLater, the squadron upgraded to [Salmson 2-A2s](https://bliptext.com/articles/salmson-2) SPAD Xis, and [Breguet BR-14](https://bliptext.com/articles/breguet-14) [observation](https://bliptext.com/articles/reconnaissance) aircraft.\nDue to ever-present low clouds and rain, the flyers were forced to drop dangerously close to the ground to carry out their missions, usually in the worst conditions.\nThe 90th Aero Squadron carried out many reconnaissances, engaged in 23 combats and relieved official confirmation for 7 aerial victories.\nThe group's lucky \"Seven Up\" emblem of red dice with white dots reading \"7\" no matter which way it was tallied, proved prophetic, for they suffered 3 casualties, consisting of 2 killed and 1 wounded.\nIn September 1918 it took part in the final [allied](https://bliptext.com/articles/allies-of-world-war-i) offensives.\nThe 90th earned a positive reputation for its ground attack missions during its continuous participation in the air offensive over [Saint-Mihiel](https://bliptext.com/articles/saint-mihiel).\nIts first commander, [First Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/first-lieutenant) William G. Schauffler, designed the 90th's Pair o' Dice emblem displaying natural sevens during this campaign.\nAfter the Armistice with Germany on 11 November 1918, little flying was done, most\nof the pilots and observers being absent on leave or returning to the States.\nOn 15 January 1919 the squadron's planes were turned in to the 1st Air Depot, Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome, and there, practically all of the pilots and observers were detached from the squadron.\nAt Colombey, very comfortable quarters were assigned and the squadron settled down to await orders to the coast.\nThe squadron left Colombey les Belles 25 January 1919, en route for the port of embarkation.\nIt stopped at the pretty little village of St. Denis de Piles, near [Libourne](https://bliptext.com/articles/libourne), Gironde, and the officers and enlisted personnel occupied excellent billets.\nOn 3 February after five days spent at St. Denis, the squadron was ordered to Libourne, the next step on the way home.\nThere the men occupied the old stone French barracks, while the officers were billeted at private houses throughout the town.\nThe squadron remained at Libourne until 10 April, when the long-awaited order to proceed to the Embarkation\nCamp.\nAfter two or three disappointments, the men were ordered on board the USS General G. W. Goethals (ID-1443).\nOfficers were detached, and sailed the same day, 20 April, Easter Sunday, on board the USS Susquehanna (ID-3016).\nThe voyage was very uneventful; land was finally sighted at 5 a.m. 3 May, and the squadron docked in [Hoboken, New Jersey](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoboken-new-jersey), at 10 a.m., after a voyage of thirteen days.\nOn 4 May at 8 a.m., the squadron marched over to Field No. 2, Garden City ([Mitchell Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/mitchell-field)), and the work of demobilizing the squadron was begun.\nAfter the war, 90th alumni commissioned [Tiffany's](https://bliptext.com/articles/tiffany-s) of [New York](https://bliptext.com/articles/new-york-city) to design a silver pin with the squadron logo.\n# [90th Aero Squadron – Salmson 2A2 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9e/90th///Aero///Squadron///-///Salmson///2A2.jpg]\n# [90th Aero Squadron \"Lucky 7 dice emblem\" | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/15/90th///Aero///Squadron///-///Emblem.jpg]\n# [90th Aero Squadron – 11:00am 11 November 1918 Bethelainville Aerodrome, France. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/65/90th///Aero///Squadron///11-11-1918.jpg]\n\n## Inter-war period\nAfter returning from France, most of the squadron demobilized at [Mitchell Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/mitchell-field) and returned to civilian life.\nA small cadre of the unit remained in the Air Service, and were sent back to Kelly Field, Texas.\nAt Kelly, the 90th, along with the [8th](https://bliptext.com/articles/8th-aero-squadron), [12th](https://bliptext.com/articles/12th-aero-squadron) and [13th Aero Squadrons](https://bliptext.com/articles/13th-aero-squadron) were formed into the [Army Surveillance Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/army-surveillance-group) on 1 July 1919.\nThe group was redesignated the 3d Attack Group on 2 July 1921.\nThe mission of the Army Surveillance Group was to carry out observation overflights along the Mexican Border.\nDuring this period, Mexico was enduring a period of revolution and unrest, which led to border violations and the deaths of American citizens.\nFrom Kelly Field, the squadron was divided into two flights, Flight A operated from [Eagle Pass Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/eagle-pass-field), while Flight B operated from Kelly Field.\nBoth flights were equipped with American-built [deHavilland DH-4](https://bliptext.com/articles/dehavilland-dh-4) aircraft, which were designed as bombers during the war.\nIn the late summer of 1919 the 464th Aero Construction Squadron had been sent to establish an Army airfield at [Sanderson, Texas](https://bliptext.com/articles/sanderson-texas).\nBy November, enough construction had been completed at [Sanderson Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/sanderson-field-texas) that the squadron moved from Kelly to operate from the new airfield, while the detachment at [Eagle Pass Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/eagle-pass-field) continued operations.\nThe detachment moved from Eagle Pass to [Del Rio Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/del-rio-field), Texas, on 12 Jun 1920.\nAs the unrest in Mexico died down by the middle of 1921 the 90th reunited and moved back to Kelly Field in July.\nAt Kelly Field, [Brigadier General](https://bliptext.com/articles/brigadier-general-united-states) [William 'Billy' Mitchell](https://bliptext.com/articles/billy-mitchell-general), a senior staff officer in the [Army Air Service](https://bliptext.com/articles/army-air-service), decided to use this low-level flying experience and the World War I experience of the 3d Group's pilots to create a group devoted to low-level mission of supporting ground troops and attacking ground targets.\nFlew border reconnaissance missions from Fort Huachuca, Arizona, during the Escobar-Topete Revolution 7 April–2 May 1929.\nThe 90th Squadron contributed to the pioneering of new tactics for attack aircraft, delivered [US mail](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-postal-service) in 1934 took part in aerial mapping missions during the 1930s, and attracted significant talent among early military airmen.\nOne example of these early airmen was [General](https://bliptext.com/articles/general-united-states) [James H. Doolittle](https://bliptext.com/articles/james-h-doolittle).\nOn 2 September 1922 General Doolittle, then a first lieutenant, became the first pilot to travel coast-to-coast in under 24 hours.\nAlthough he could not remember if he was assigned to the 90th during the flight, the [Air Force Historical Research Agency](https://bliptext.com/articles/air-force-historical-research-agency) confirmed he was a member of the 90th at the time, and his DH-4 aircraft displayed the 90th's pair-o-dice emblem.\nEarly commanders of the 90th also included Lieutenants [Hoyt Vandenberg](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoyt-vandenberg) and [Nathan Twining](https://bliptext.com/articles/nathan-f-twining), both of whom later became [Air Force Chiefs of Staff](https://bliptext.com/articles/chief-of-staff-of-the-united-states-air-force).\nTransferred on 27 February 1935 to Barksdale Field, Louisiana, then transferred on 10 October 1940 to Savannah AAF, Georgia.\n# [De Havilland DH-4 bomber with members of the 90th Squadron (Surveillance) at Sanderson Field, Texas, ca 1920. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a5/90th///Squadron///DH-4.jpg]\n# [90th Attack Squadron – Curtiss A-12 Shrike, 1933 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/90th///Attack///Squadron///-///Curtiss///A-12///Shrike.jpg]\n# [Northrop A-17A Serial 36-207 at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. It was assigned to the 90th Attack Squadron. It is the only A-17A known to exist. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/65/3dwing-a-17a.jpg]\n# [North American B-25C Mitchell of the 90th BS, 3rd BG(L) USAAF, Dobodura Airfield 1943 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/67/B-25C///90///BS.jpg]\n\n## World War II\nDuring [World War II](https://bliptext.com/articles/world-war-ii), the 90th, now a bombardment squadron, operated in the South Pacific, flying [Douglas A-20 Havoc](https://bliptext.com/articles/douglas-a-20-havoc) and [North American B-25 Mitchell](https://bliptext.com/articles/north-american-b-25-mitchell) aircraft.\nTheir main mission involved highly-dangerous [skip bombings](https://bliptext.com/articles/skip-bombing).\nIn an effort to improve the effectiveness and protection of the 3d Bombardment Group's pilots, [Major](https://bliptext.com/articles/major-united-states) [Paul 'Pappy' Gunn](https://bliptext.com/articles/paul-pappy-gunn), 3d Bombardment Group engineering officer, devised a modification of the B-25C.\nThe modification replaced the forward bombardier with four forwards firing [.50 caliber machine guns](https://bliptext.com/articles/m2-browning-machine-gun), supplemented with two twin .50 caliber gun packages side mounted on the fuselage.\nThe lower turret was discarded.\nThe A-20s received similar modifications.\nThe modified aircraft were first employed by the 90th and proved exceptionally effective, receiving the nickname 'commerce destroyers.' During the [Battle of the Bismarck Sea](https://bliptext.com/articles/battle-of-the-bismarck-sea), every aircraft in the 90th scored a hit on the [Japanese](https://bliptext.com/articles/japan) convoy of 18 ships.\nIt was the first sea-level attack by B-25 [strafers](https://bliptext.com/articles/strafing) in World War II and demonstrated that this [tactic](https://bliptext.com/articles/military-tactics) was extremely effective.\nThe squadron also participated in the raids on [Wewak](https://bliptext.com/articles/wewak), New Guinea, which were preemptive strikes that virtually ended the threat of enemy offensive air capabilities.\n\n## Cold War\nIn 1945, after World War II, the 90th Squadron was moved to Japan.\nThe 90th began flying the [Douglas A-26 Invader](https://bliptext.com/articles/douglas-a-26-invader) as the 3d Bombardment Group became an all A-26 outfit.\nIn September 1946 the 90th moved with the 3d Bombardment Group to [Yokota Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/yokota-air-base), Japan, and began training to become combat-ready with the A-26, which was redesignated the B-26 Invader.\nWith the creation of the U.S. Air Force in late 1947 the force began an internal reorganization.\nThis led to the activation of the 3d Bombardment Wing in August 1948, to which the 3d Bombardment Group was assigned.\nThe 90th Squadron was inactivated from 1 October 1949 until 25 June 1951.\nAt that point, the squadron was redesignated the 90th Bombardment Squadron Light, Night Intruder.\nIn July, as part of the 3d Bombardment Group, the 90th participated in the [Korean War](https://bliptext.com/articles/korean-war).\nThe B-26 Invaders, which the 90th flew, had as many as 12 forward-firing .50 caliber machine guns.\nThe 90th's specialty during the Korean War was destroying locomotives and marshalling yards.\nAfter the war, the 90th moved with the 3d Bombardment Group to [Johnson Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/johnson-air-base), Japan, on 1 October 1954.\nIn January 1956 the unit transitioned to the [B-57C Night Intruder](https://bliptext.com/articles/b-57-canberra).\nIn October 1957 the 3d Bombardment Group inactivated and its heritage transferred to the 3d Bombardment Wing, as did the 90th Bombardment Squadron.\nIn 1960 the wing and squadron transferred to Yokota Air Base, where it trained in bombardment, [reconnaissance](https://bliptext.com/articles/aerial-reconnaissance), and [air refueling](https://bliptext.com/articles/air-refueling).\nIt also served [nuclear](https://bliptext.com/articles/nuclear-warfare) alert during this period as well.\nIn the mid-1960s, however, the squadron underwent significant changes.\nIn 1964 the 3d Bombardment Wing converted to a tactical fighter wing, as did the 90th, which became the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 8 June 1964.\nThe wing and the 90th moved to [England Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/england-air-force-base), Louisiana, as part of an overall reorganization to reduce the number of wings located in Japan.\nWhile at England, the 90th gained the [North American F-100 Super Sabre](https://bliptext.com/articles/north-american-f-100-super-sabre).\nAt the beginning of the [Vietnam War](https://bliptext.com/articles/vietnam-war), the 3d Bombardment Wing began deploying units to Vietnam on a rotational basis, while the remainder continued training in their ground support role.\nIn November 1965 the wing moved to [Bien Hoa Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/bien-hoa-air-base), South Vietnam, during the buildup of forces.\nThe 90th flew [close air support](https://bliptext.com/articles/close-air-support) missions from Bien Hoa through tens of thousands of sorties.\nIn 1969 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron reverted to its pre-World War II designation of 90th Attack Squadron.\nOn 31 October 1970 the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing ended its duties in Vietnam and remained active in 'paper' status until it moved to [Kunsan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/kunsan-air-base), South Korea, in March 1971.\nThe 90th Attack Squadron was reassigned to the [14th Special Operations Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/14th-special-operations-wing) on 31 October 1970 and was redesignated the 90th Special Operations Squadron and remained in Vietnam at [Nha Trang Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/nha-trang-air-base).\nFrom late 1970 until 1974 the 90th underwent several command reassignments.\nIt remained with the 14th Special Operations Wing until 1 September 1971, when it moved to the [483d Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/483d-tactical-fighter-wing) and remained at Nha Trang Air Base.\nOn 15 April 1972 the 90th moved again, this time to the [18th Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/18th-tactical-fighter-wing) at Kadena Air Base, [Okinawa](https://bliptext.com/articles/okinawa-island), Japan.\nThis assignment lasted only a few months, as the unit was assigned to the [405th Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/405th-fighter-wing) in December 1972 and moved to [Clark Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/clark-air-base), Philippines.\nThe squadron was redesignated the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 8 July 1973, and began to fly [McDonnell F-4 Phantom IIs](https://bliptext.com/articles/mcdonnell-f-4-phantom-ii).\nIn September of the following year, the 90th returned once again to the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing, when it relocated to Clark Air Base after the 405th Fighter Wing was inactivated.\nFrom 31 August 1973 to 31 July 1974 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron maintained an F-4 detachment at the [Ching Chuan Kang Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/ching-chuan-kang-air-base), [Tainan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/tainan-air-base), [Taiwan](https://bliptext.com/articles/taiwan), and primary mission was to support [Taiwan](https://bliptext.com/articles/taiwan)’s air defense.\nIn 1975 the 90th converted to the F-4E and participated in combat training and providing air defense for the Philippines.\nIn July 1977 the 90th once again upgraded its aircraft, this time to the F-4G, which performed a ground radar suppression and destruction mission.\nThe squadron had both F-4G and F-4E aircraft assigned, operating in \"hunter-killer\" roles.\nEach F-4G was paired with an F-4E during each mission, and the G models would point out threat radar sites to the E models for attack, as well as attacking using their own armaments.\nThis multiplied the force being applied without having to purchase more of the expensive G models.\nDuring the late 1970s and 1980s, the squadron provided training and support to other units throughout the Pacific, as well as ensuring the readiness of its own pilots and aircraft.\nThe unit participated in numerous Cope Thunder exercises hosted at Clark AB, as well as Pitch Black in Darwin, Australia, and other exercises in South Korea.\nBy 1990, however, the Philippines had expressed a desire for the withdrawal of American military forces in the islands.\nIn May 1991 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron was reassigned to the [21st Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/21st-tactical-fighter-wing) located at [Elmendorf Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/elmendorf-air-force-base), Alaska.\nIn September 1991 the 90th was redesignated the 90th Fighter Squadron and became part of the [21st Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/21st-operations-group).\nThis association did not last long, however.\n# [3d Bomb Wing B-26B-50-DL Invaders during the Korean War. Serial 44-34306 identifiable. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f2/3dbg-b-26-44-34306.jpg]\n# [Martin B-57B-MA Serial 53-3896 of the 3d Bomb Wing. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/54/B-57b-3dbw-japan.jpg]\n# [90th TFS North American F-100D-90-NA Super Sabre 56-3304 Bien Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam, 1967 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/90th///TFS///North///American///F-100D-90-NA///Super///Sabre///56-3304///1967.jpg]\n# [F-4D-28-MC Phantom II 65-0755 of the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base, Taiwan, 1974 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e1/F-4D///Detachment///of///the///90th///Tactical///Fighter///Squadron///at///CCK///Air///Base%2C///Taiwan.jpg]\n# [McDonnell Douglas F-4G-42-MC Phantom\nSerial 69-0275 of the 90th TFS/3d TFW Clark AFB, Philippines, 1979. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/F-4g-69-0275-pn-90tfs-3tfw-clark-1979.jpg]\n\n## Post-Cold War\nIn June 1991 [Mount Pinatubo](https://bliptext.com/articles/mount-pinatubo) erupted in the Philippines and the Air Force quickly decided to evacuate its personnel and equipment from Clark AB.\nThe 3d Tactical Fighter Wing remained in the Philippines during [Desert Shield](https://bliptext.com/articles/gulf-war) and [Desert Storm](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-desert-storm) due to instability in the Philippines.\nHowever, it was not going to remain in the islands for very long.\nIt became a 'paper' unit briefly while the Chief of Staff, General [Merrill McPeak](https://bliptext.com/articles/merrill-mcpeak), decided where to send the wing.\nHe selected Elmendorf.\nThe 21st Tactical Fighter Wing was inactivated and the 3d Wing replaced it as the lead wing at Elmendorf on 19 December 1991.\nWith the establishment of the 3d Wing on Elmendorf, the 90th Fighter Squadron was once again reunited with its old wing.\nWhile these changes occurred with the 3d Wing, the 90th Fighter Squadron deployed six F-4G crews to join other Wild Weasel squadrons and coalition forces in Sheikh Isa, Bahrain for the [Gulf War](https://bliptext.com/articles/gulf-war).\nThe six crews were attached to the [81st Tactical Fighter Squadron](https://bliptext.com/articles/81st-tactical-fighter-squadron) and were known as the Philippine Expeditionary Force (PEF).\nDuring combat operations, PEF crews destroyed multiple Iraqi SAM sites.\nThis was the last combat deployment for the 90th while operating F-4Gs.\nUpon relocating to Elmendorf, the unit gained a new aircraft, the [McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle](https://bliptext.com/articles/mcdonnell-douglas-f-15e-strike-eagle).\nThis two-seat dual role updated version of the [F-15C Eagle](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-15-eagle) had more survivability enhancements than any other fighter aircraft at the time.\nIt carried a wide array of armament as it performed both air-to-air and air-to-surface attack missions.\nSince arriving in Alaska, the 90th Fighter Squadron participated in numerous training [exercises](https://bliptext.com/articles/military-exercise) in the lower 48 states and other areas of the world.\nThese training exercises included Polar Thrust, Cope Thunder, Tandem Thrust, Cope Thaw, and [Red Flag](https://bliptext.com/articles/red-flag-usaf) in locations such as [Mountain Home Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/mountain-home-air-force-base), Idaho, [Osan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/osan-air-base), Korea, [Andersen Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/andersen-air-force-base), [Guam](https://bliptext.com/articles/guam), [Naval Air Station Fallon](https://bliptext.com/articles/naval-air-station-fallon), Nevada, and [Nellis Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/nellis-air-force-base), Nevada.\nThe squadron also developed a reputation for safety in its training.\nOn 20 February 1996 the squadron received the [Alaska Governor](https://bliptext.com/articles/alaska-governor)'s Safety Award conferred through the Alaska Department of Labor.\nThis was the first time a military organization won the state award since its inception in 1980.\nIn addition to exercises, the 90th Fighter Squadron also undertook real-world deployments during the 1990s and early 2000s (decade).\nFrom October 1995 until January 1996 the squadron deployed 8 F-15Es and 193 personnel to [Aviano Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/aviano-air-base), Italy in support of [Operation Deny Flight](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-deny-flight) and [Operation Joint Endeavor](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-joint-endeavor).\nIn February 1998 the squadron deployed 18 F-15Es and over 200 personnel to Kwangju Air Base and [Taegu Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/taegu-air-base), both in Korea.\nWhile there, the unit flew 1200 joint combat training sorties.\nPersonnel and aircraft redeployed in June 1998.\nIn 2001 the 90th began a series of deployments which took members of the squadron to the Middle East and [Southwest Asia](https://bliptext.com/articles/southwest-asia).\nIn March of that year, the 90th participated in a 90-day deployment in support of [Operation Northern Watch](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-northern-watch), patrolling the northern [No-fly zone](https://bliptext.com/articles/no-fly-zone) in [Iraq](https://bliptext.com/articles/iraq).\nThe squadron sent 154 personnel and 10 F-15Es to [Incirlik Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/incirlik-air-base), Turkey and returned to Elmendorf on 9 June 2001.\nIn October that year, 18 F-15Es were deployed to Kwangju Air Base, Korea, in support of Afghanistan operations.\nWhile deployed pilots flew practice strike missions and provided long-range interdiction strike capability in the region during the absence of the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), they also flew missions over South Korea and repaired base infrastructure while there.\nThe squadron redeployed from 20 to 23 December.\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron participated in an historic event on 4 September 2002.\nTwo [Royal Australian Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/royal-australian-air-force) [exchange officers](https://bliptext.com/articles/exchange-officer), [Flight Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/flight-lieutenant) Paul Simmons and [Flight Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/flight-lieutenant) Tony Southwood, paired up to fly one of the 90th's F-15Es.\nThis was the first time Australian pilots flew an American aircraft in the Pacific Theatre.\nIn 2003 the squadron undertook another deployment in the Pacific in support of [Operation Enduring Freedom](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-enduring-freedom).\nThe 90th sent 18 F-15Es to bases in the Pacific, including Osan Air Base, [Kunsan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/kunsan-air-base), (both in Korea), Kadena Air Base, Japan and Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.\nThe deployment included 592 personnel from mid-February until mid-May.\nKwangju AB, Korea, once again became home to members of the 90th Fighter Squadron in 2004.\nIn August the squadron deployed 12 F-15Es in a rotation.\nThe unit was temporarily designated the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and assigned to the 3d Air Expeditionary Group.\nWhile deployed the unit flew more than 1100 sorties over the Korean Peninsula and provided two important flights to distinguished visitors, [Republic of Korea Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/republic-of-korea-air-force) Brigadier General Ko and Republic of Korea General Kim, Commander Korean Ground Forces.\nIn 2005 the squadron focused on training and preparation for its next real-world deployment.\nAmidst the training and exercises, however, the squadron was able to showcase their talent with participation in the Aero India Airshow and with a flyby at the [United States Air Force Academy](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-air-force-academy) before the Air Force-Army football game.\nAdditionally, the F-15Es completed an upgrade of their weapons systems.\nThis upgrade allowed the aircraft to carry and use more advanced weaponry, including the [Joint Direct Attack Munition](https://bliptext.com/articles/joint-direct-attack-munition) and eventually the [Small Diameter Bomb](https://bliptext.com/articles/small-diameter-bomb).\nAs 2006 progressed, the 90th Fighter Squadron began to prepare for significant changes in its mission and weapons system.\nThe F-15Es were scheduled to relocate to Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, through the [BRAC](https://bliptext.com/articles/base-realignment-and-closure) decisions in 2005.\nReplacing those F-15Es, the 90th began receiving the advanced [F-22 Raptor](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-22-raptor) in August 2007, which greatly enhanced the 90th Fighter Squadron's ability to perform its duties.\nIn August 2022 twelve of the squadron's F-22 Raptors deployed to [Łask Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/ask-air-base), Poland as part of [NATO](https://bliptext.com/articles/nato)'s air shielding mission.\nIn August 2024 some of squadron's [F-22 Raptors](https://bliptext.com/articles/lockheed-martin-f-22-raptor) jets have arrived in the Middle East in a show of force meant to deter [Iran](https://bliptext.com/articles/iran) and its proxies from attacking [Israel](https://bliptext.com/articles/israel) following the assassination of a Hamas leader.\n# [\"Philippine Expeditionary Force\" back home at Clark AB, RP before Mount Pinatubo eruption. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/PEF///1991.jpg]\n# [A 90th FS F-15E Strike Eagle flies over glacial fields during a training mission. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cc/F-15E-el-4.jpg]\n# [The first of 40 F-22A Raptors at Elmendorf. The aircraft is flown and maintained by the active-duty Air Force's 90th Fighter Squadron and Air Force Reserve 302d Fighter Squadron. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/76/F-22-el-1.jpg]\n\n# Lineage\n\n## Assignments\n\n## Stations\n\n## Aircraft\n\n## Operations","current_revision":null,"created_by":"kACnuQmH5k9Nr5VNVEpVeg7XpvUmMctD","created_at":"2025-01-26T10:38:55.877Z","updated_at":"2025-01-26T10:38:55.877Z","search_vector":"'90th':1 'fighter':2 'squadron':3","search_content":" \n \n**Unit Name:** 90th Fighter Squadron · Pacific Air Forces.png \n**Image Size:** 300 \n**Dates:** 20 August 1917 – 1 October 1949 · 25 June 1951 – present \n**Country:** 🇺🇸 \n**Role:** Air Superiority \n**Size:** Squadron \n**Current Commander:** Lt Col Ryan \"Rase\" Graf \n**Command Structure:** [Pacific Air Forces](https://bliptext.com/articles/pacific-air-forces) · [Eleventh Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/eleventh-air-force) · [3rd Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/3rd-wing) · [3rd Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/3rd-operations-group) \n**Garrison:** [Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson](https://bliptext.com/articles/joint-base-elmendorf-richardson), Alaska \n**Nickname:** The Dicemen \n**Colors:** Red \n**Equipment:** \"AK\" \n**Equipment Label:** Fuselage Code \n**Battles:** World War I War Service Streamer without inscription.png World War I · WW II American Campaign (Antisubmarine) Streamer.jpg World War II - Antisubmarine · Asiatic-Pacific Streamer.png World War II - Asia-Pacific Theater · Korean Service Medal - Streamer.png Korean War · Vietnam Service Streamer.jpg Vietnam War · Streamer AFE.PNG Vietnam Ceasefire · Streamer AFE.PNG Operation Deny Flight Operation Joint Endeavor Operation Northern Watch, · Streamer AFGCS.PNG Afghanistan Campaign \n**Decorations:** Streamer PUC Army.PNG Distinguished Unit Citation (8x) · AFOUA with Valor.jpg Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat \"V\" Device (5x) · US Air Force Outstanding Unit Award - Stremer.jpg Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (18x) · Presidential Unit Citation (Philippines) Streamer.png Philippine Presidential Unit Citation · Vietnam Gallantry Cross - Streamer.jpg Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm \n**Notable Commanders:** [Hoyt S. Vandenberg](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoyt-s-vandenberg) · [Nathan F. Twining](https://bliptext.com/articles/nathan-f-twining) · [Richard H. Ellis](https://bliptext.com/articles/richard-h-ellis) \n**Identification Symbol:** 90th Fighter Squadron.png \n**Identification Symbol Label:** 90th Fighter Squadron emblem \n \n\n# \nThe **90th Fighter Squadron** is a squadron of the [United States Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-air-force).\nIt is assigned to the [3d Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/3d-operations-group), 3d Wing, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, [Pacific Air Forces](https://bliptext.com/articles/pacific-air-forces).\nThe squadron is equipped with the [F-22 Raptor](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-22-raptor) [fighter](https://bliptext.com/articles/fighter-aircraft).\nThe 90 FS is one of the oldest units in the United States Air Force, first being organized as the **90th Aero Squadron** on 20 August 1917 at [Kelly Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/kelly-field), Texas.\nThe squadron deployed to France and fought on the [Western Front](https://bliptext.com/articles/western-front-world-war-i) during World War I as a Corps observation squadron.\nDuring World War II, the unit earned the [Distinguished Unit Citation](https://bliptext.com/articles/distinguished-unit-citation) and the [Presidential Unit Citation](https://bliptext.com/articles/presidential-unit-citation-united-states) for its services in the [Pacific Theater of Operations](https://bliptext.com/articles/asiatic-pacific-theater) (PTO) as part of [Fifth Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/fifth-air-force).\nDuring the [Cold War](https://bliptext.com/articles/cold-war) the squadron fought in the [Korean War](https://bliptext.com/articles/korean-war) and [Vietnam War](https://bliptext.com/articles/vietnam-war).\n\n# Mission\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron trains in the fighter missions of [offensive counter-air (OCA)](https://bliptext.com/articles/offensive-counter-air) and defensive counter-air (DCA), as well as strategic attack and interdiction.\n\n# History\n\n## World War I\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron origins begin with Special Order 104, Headquarters [Kelly Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/kelly-field), San Antonio, Texas, on 25 September 1917.\nThe men in it were largely from two detachments; one from [Vancouver Barracks](https://bliptext.com/articles/vancouver-barracks), Washington, which arrived at Kelly Field on 18 August; another from [Fort Leavenworth](https://bliptext.com/articles/fort-leavenworth), Kansas, which arrived on 25 August.\nBoth of these detachments had been held from the date of their arrival until 25 September under Recruit Camp Headquarters as a Provisional Squadron.\nThe first few months of its existence were consumed by the necessary training to prepare the men for operations in France during [World War I](https://bliptext.com/articles/world-war-i).\nOn 30 September, the squadron left Kelly Field for the Aviation Concentration Center, [Camp Mills](https://bliptext.com/articles/camp-mills), Garden City, New York,\nLong Island, where it arrived five days later.\nOn the night of 5 October the squadron detrained, and early next morning hiked out to Field No. 2 of the Aviation Concentration Center ([Hazelhurst Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/hazelhurst-field)), where they were quartered with the Headquarters of the First Provisional Wing in Barracks No. 5. Here they stayed for several weeks performing guard duty and fatigue work, and carrying on the work of organization, equipment and preparation for overseas duty.\nOn 26 October, orders were received to pack up equipment and to prepare for immediate overseas departure.\nThe following day the squadron was moved to Pier 54, New York Harbor,\nand boarded the [SS Orduña](https://bliptext.com/articles/ss-ordu-a).\nThe crossing of the Atlantic was uneventful, and on 10 November the Orduna moved into the dock at [Liverpool](https://bliptext.com/articles/liverpool), England.\nOn 12 November 1917 the men of the 90th arrived at [Le Havre](https://bliptext.com/articles/le-havre), France.\nBoarding the famous \"Hommes 40, Chevaux 8\" railroad box cars (maximum capacity of 40 men or eight horses,) they were shipped to [Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome](https://bliptext.com/articles/colombey-les-belles-airdrome) for what they thought would be immediate deployment to the front.\nBut, to their great disappointment, they were given the assignment of road and barracks construction work, building the large 1st Air Depot and staging area which would eventually process and equip a large number of Americans that would arrive in France during 1918.\nAfter seven months at Colombey, the 90th Aero Squadron was designed as a Corps Observation squadron, being assigned to the [III Corps Observation Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/iii-corps-observation-group) on 11 June 1918.\nTwo days later it reached what was called the \"Zone of Advance\" (combat area) at [Ourches Aerodrome](https://bliptext.com/articles/ourches-aerodrome).\nThe squadron's first aircraft were the [Sopwith 1½ Strutter](https://bliptext.com/articles/sopwith-1-strutter) ground attack aircraft.\nAt Ourches, the 90th and other squadrons were engaged in combat operations, both in aerial combat and aerial reconnaissance photography.\nIt took part in operations in the Toul Sector, the [Battle of Saint-Mihiel](https://bliptext.com/articles/battle-of-saint-mihiel) and the first and second [Meuse-Argonne Offensives](https://bliptext.com/articles/meuse-argonne-offensive).\nLater, the squadron upgraded to [Salmson 2-A2s](https://bliptext.com/articles/salmson-2) SPAD Xis, and [Breguet BR-14](https://bliptext.com/articles/breguet-14) [observation](https://bliptext.com/articles/reconnaissance) aircraft.\nDue to ever-present low clouds and rain, the flyers were forced to drop dangerously close to the ground to carry out their missions, usually in the worst conditions.\nThe 90th Aero Squadron carried out many reconnaissances, engaged in 23 combats and relieved official confirmation for 7 aerial victories.\nThe group's lucky \"Seven Up\" emblem of red dice with white dots reading \"7\" no matter which way it was tallied, proved prophetic, for they suffered 3 casualties, consisting of 2 killed and 1 wounded.\nIn September 1918 it took part in the final [allied](https://bliptext.com/articles/allies-of-world-war-i) offensives.\nThe 90th earned a positive reputation for its ground attack missions during its continuous participation in the air offensive over [Saint-Mihiel](https://bliptext.com/articles/saint-mihiel).\nIts first commander, [First Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/first-lieutenant) William G. Schauffler, designed the 90th's Pair o' Dice emblem displaying natural sevens during this campaign.\nAfter the Armistice with Germany on 11 November 1918, little flying was done, most\nof the pilots and observers being absent on leave or returning to the States.\nOn 15 January 1919 the squadron's planes were turned in to the 1st Air Depot, Colombey-les-Belles Airdrome, and there, practically all of the pilots and observers were detached from the squadron.\nAt Colombey, very comfortable quarters were assigned and the squadron settled down to await orders to the coast.\nThe squadron left Colombey les Belles 25 January 1919, en route for the port of embarkation.\nIt stopped at the pretty little village of St. Denis de Piles, near [Libourne](https://bliptext.com/articles/libourne), Gironde, and the officers and enlisted personnel occupied excellent billets.\nOn 3 February after five days spent at St. Denis, the squadron was ordered to Libourne, the next step on the way home.\nThere the men occupied the old stone French barracks, while the officers were billeted at private houses throughout the town.\nThe squadron remained at Libourne until 10 April, when the long-awaited order to proceed to the Embarkation\nCamp.\nAfter two or three disappointments, the men were ordered on board the USS General G. W. Goethals (ID-1443).\nOfficers were detached, and sailed the same day, 20 April, Easter Sunday, on board the USS Susquehanna (ID-3016).\nThe voyage was very uneventful; land was finally sighted at 5 a.m. 3 May, and the squadron docked in [Hoboken, New Jersey](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoboken-new-jersey), at 10 a.m., after a voyage of thirteen days.\nOn 4 May at 8 a.m., the squadron marched over to Field No. 2, Garden City ([Mitchell Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/mitchell-field)), and the work of demobilizing the squadron was begun.\nAfter the war, 90th alumni commissioned [Tiffany's](https://bliptext.com/articles/tiffany-s) of [New York](https://bliptext.com/articles/new-york-city) to design a silver pin with the squadron logo.\n# [90th Aero Squadron – Salmson 2A2 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9e/90th///Aero///Squadron///-///Salmson///2A2.jpg]\n# [90th Aero Squadron \"Lucky 7 dice emblem\" | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/15/90th///Aero///Squadron///-///Emblem.jpg]\n# [90th Aero Squadron – 11:00am 11 November 1918 Bethelainville Aerodrome, France. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/65/90th///Aero///Squadron///11-11-1918.jpg]\n\n## Inter-war period\nAfter returning from France, most of the squadron demobilized at [Mitchell Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/mitchell-field) and returned to civilian life.\nA small cadre of the unit remained in the Air Service, and were sent back to Kelly Field, Texas.\nAt Kelly, the 90th, along with the [8th](https://bliptext.com/articles/8th-aero-squadron), [12th](https://bliptext.com/articles/12th-aero-squadron) and [13th Aero Squadrons](https://bliptext.com/articles/13th-aero-squadron) were formed into the [Army Surveillance Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/army-surveillance-group) on 1 July 1919.\nThe group was redesignated the 3d Attack Group on 2 July 1921.\nThe mission of the Army Surveillance Group was to carry out observation overflights along the Mexican Border.\nDuring this period, Mexico was enduring a period of revolution and unrest, which led to border violations and the deaths of American citizens.\nFrom Kelly Field, the squadron was divided into two flights, Flight A operated from [Eagle Pass Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/eagle-pass-field), while Flight B operated from Kelly Field.\nBoth flights were equipped with American-built [deHavilland DH-4](https://bliptext.com/articles/dehavilland-dh-4) aircraft, which were designed as bombers during the war.\nIn the late summer of 1919 the 464th Aero Construction Squadron had been sent to establish an Army airfield at [Sanderson, Texas](https://bliptext.com/articles/sanderson-texas).\nBy November, enough construction had been completed at [Sanderson Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/sanderson-field-texas) that the squadron moved from Kelly to operate from the new airfield, while the detachment at [Eagle Pass Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/eagle-pass-field) continued operations.\nThe detachment moved from Eagle Pass to [Del Rio Field](https://bliptext.com/articles/del-rio-field), Texas, on 12 Jun 1920.\nAs the unrest in Mexico died down by the middle of 1921 the 90th reunited and moved back to Kelly Field in July.\nAt Kelly Field, [Brigadier General](https://bliptext.com/articles/brigadier-general-united-states) [William 'Billy' Mitchell](https://bliptext.com/articles/billy-mitchell-general), a senior staff officer in the [Army Air Service](https://bliptext.com/articles/army-air-service), decided to use this low-level flying experience and the World War I experience of the 3d Group's pilots to create a group devoted to low-level mission of supporting ground troops and attacking ground targets.\nFlew border reconnaissance missions from Fort Huachuca, Arizona, during the Escobar-Topete Revolution 7 April–2 May 1929.\nThe 90th Squadron contributed to the pioneering of new tactics for attack aircraft, delivered [US mail](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-postal-service) in 1934 took part in aerial mapping missions during the 1930s, and attracted significant talent among early military airmen.\nOne example of these early airmen was [General](https://bliptext.com/articles/general-united-states) [James H. Doolittle](https://bliptext.com/articles/james-h-doolittle).\nOn 2 September 1922 General Doolittle, then a first lieutenant, became the first pilot to travel coast-to-coast in under 24 hours.\nAlthough he could not remember if he was assigned to the 90th during the flight, the [Air Force Historical Research Agency](https://bliptext.com/articles/air-force-historical-research-agency) confirmed he was a member of the 90th at the time, and his DH-4 aircraft displayed the 90th's pair-o-dice emblem.\nEarly commanders of the 90th also included Lieutenants [Hoyt Vandenberg](https://bliptext.com/articles/hoyt-vandenberg) and [Nathan Twining](https://bliptext.com/articles/nathan-f-twining), both of whom later became [Air Force Chiefs of Staff](https://bliptext.com/articles/chief-of-staff-of-the-united-states-air-force).\nTransferred on 27 February 1935 to Barksdale Field, Louisiana, then transferred on 10 October 1940 to Savannah AAF, Georgia.\n# [De Havilland DH-4 bomber with members of the 90th Squadron (Surveillance) at Sanderson Field, Texas, ca 1920. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a5/90th///Squadron///DH-4.jpg]\n# [90th Attack Squadron – Curtiss A-12 Shrike, 1933 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/90th///Attack///Squadron///-///Curtiss///A-12///Shrike.jpg]\n# [Northrop A-17A Serial 36-207 at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. It was assigned to the 90th Attack Squadron. It is the only A-17A known to exist. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/65/3dwing-a-17a.jpg]\n# [North American B-25C Mitchell of the 90th BS, 3rd BG(L) USAAF, Dobodura Airfield 1943 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/67/B-25C///90///BS.jpg]\n\n## World War II\nDuring [World War II](https://bliptext.com/articles/world-war-ii), the 90th, now a bombardment squadron, operated in the South Pacific, flying [Douglas A-20 Havoc](https://bliptext.com/articles/douglas-a-20-havoc) and [North American B-25 Mitchell](https://bliptext.com/articles/north-american-b-25-mitchell) aircraft.\nTheir main mission involved highly-dangerous [skip bombings](https://bliptext.com/articles/skip-bombing).\nIn an effort to improve the effectiveness and protection of the 3d Bombardment Group's pilots, [Major](https://bliptext.com/articles/major-united-states) [Paul 'Pappy' Gunn](https://bliptext.com/articles/paul-pappy-gunn), 3d Bombardment Group engineering officer, devised a modification of the B-25C.\nThe modification replaced the forward bombardier with four forwards firing [.50 caliber machine guns](https://bliptext.com/articles/m2-browning-machine-gun), supplemented with two twin .50 caliber gun packages side mounted on the fuselage.\nThe lower turret was discarded.\nThe A-20s received similar modifications.\nThe modified aircraft were first employed by the 90th and proved exceptionally effective, receiving the nickname 'commerce destroyers.' During the [Battle of the Bismarck Sea](https://bliptext.com/articles/battle-of-the-bismarck-sea), every aircraft in the 90th scored a hit on the [Japanese](https://bliptext.com/articles/japan) convoy of 18 ships.\nIt was the first sea-level attack by B-25 [strafers](https://bliptext.com/articles/strafing) in World War II and demonstrated that this [tactic](https://bliptext.com/articles/military-tactics) was extremely effective.\nThe squadron also participated in the raids on [Wewak](https://bliptext.com/articles/wewak), New Guinea, which were preemptive strikes that virtually ended the threat of enemy offensive air capabilities.\n\n## Cold War\nIn 1945, after World War II, the 90th Squadron was moved to Japan.\nThe 90th began flying the [Douglas A-26 Invader](https://bliptext.com/articles/douglas-a-26-invader) as the 3d Bombardment Group became an all A-26 outfit.\nIn September 1946 the 90th moved with the 3d Bombardment Group to [Yokota Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/yokota-air-base), Japan, and began training to become combat-ready with the A-26, which was redesignated the B-26 Invader.\nWith the creation of the U.S. Air Force in late 1947 the force began an internal reorganization.\nThis led to the activation of the 3d Bombardment Wing in August 1948, to which the 3d Bombardment Group was assigned.\nThe 90th Squadron was inactivated from 1 October 1949 until 25 June 1951.\nAt that point, the squadron was redesignated the 90th Bombardment Squadron Light, Night Intruder.\nIn July, as part of the 3d Bombardment Group, the 90th participated in the [Korean War](https://bliptext.com/articles/korean-war).\nThe B-26 Invaders, which the 90th flew, had as many as 12 forward-firing .50 caliber machine guns.\nThe 90th's specialty during the Korean War was destroying locomotives and marshalling yards.\nAfter the war, the 90th moved with the 3d Bombardment Group to [Johnson Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/johnson-air-base), Japan, on 1 October 1954.\nIn January 1956 the unit transitioned to the [B-57C Night Intruder](https://bliptext.com/articles/b-57-canberra).\nIn October 1957 the 3d Bombardment Group inactivated and its heritage transferred to the 3d Bombardment Wing, as did the 90th Bombardment Squadron.\nIn 1960 the wing and squadron transferred to Yokota Air Base, where it trained in bombardment, [reconnaissance](https://bliptext.com/articles/aerial-reconnaissance), and [air refueling](https://bliptext.com/articles/air-refueling).\nIt also served [nuclear](https://bliptext.com/articles/nuclear-warfare) alert during this period as well.\nIn the mid-1960s, however, the squadron underwent significant changes.\nIn 1964 the 3d Bombardment Wing converted to a tactical fighter wing, as did the 90th, which became the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 8 June 1964.\nThe wing and the 90th moved to [England Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/england-air-force-base), Louisiana, as part of an overall reorganization to reduce the number of wings located in Japan.\nWhile at England, the 90th gained the [North American F-100 Super Sabre](https://bliptext.com/articles/north-american-f-100-super-sabre).\nAt the beginning of the [Vietnam War](https://bliptext.com/articles/vietnam-war), the 3d Bombardment Wing began deploying units to Vietnam on a rotational basis, while the remainder continued training in their ground support role.\nIn November 1965 the wing moved to [Bien Hoa Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/bien-hoa-air-base), South Vietnam, during the buildup of forces.\nThe 90th flew [close air support](https://bliptext.com/articles/close-air-support) missions from Bien Hoa through tens of thousands of sorties.\nIn 1969 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron reverted to its pre-World War II designation of 90th Attack Squadron.\nOn 31 October 1970 the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing ended its duties in Vietnam and remained active in 'paper' status until it moved to [Kunsan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/kunsan-air-base), South Korea, in March 1971.\nThe 90th Attack Squadron was reassigned to the [14th Special Operations Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/14th-special-operations-wing) on 31 October 1970 and was redesignated the 90th Special Operations Squadron and remained in Vietnam at [Nha Trang Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/nha-trang-air-base).\nFrom late 1970 until 1974 the 90th underwent several command reassignments.\nIt remained with the 14th Special Operations Wing until 1 September 1971, when it moved to the [483d Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/483d-tactical-fighter-wing) and remained at Nha Trang Air Base.\nOn 15 April 1972 the 90th moved again, this time to the [18th Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/18th-tactical-fighter-wing) at Kadena Air Base, [Okinawa](https://bliptext.com/articles/okinawa-island), Japan.\nThis assignment lasted only a few months, as the unit was assigned to the [405th Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/405th-fighter-wing) in December 1972 and moved to [Clark Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/clark-air-base), Philippines.\nThe squadron was redesignated the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron on 8 July 1973, and began to fly [McDonnell F-4 Phantom IIs](https://bliptext.com/articles/mcdonnell-f-4-phantom-ii).\nIn September of the following year, the 90th returned once again to the 3d Tactical Fighter Wing, when it relocated to Clark Air Base after the 405th Fighter Wing was inactivated.\nFrom 31 August 1973 to 31 July 1974 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron maintained an F-4 detachment at the [Ching Chuan Kang Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/ching-chuan-kang-air-base), [Tainan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/tainan-air-base), [Taiwan](https://bliptext.com/articles/taiwan), and primary mission was to support [Taiwan](https://bliptext.com/articles/taiwan)’s air defense.\nIn 1975 the 90th converted to the F-4E and participated in combat training and providing air defense for the Philippines.\nIn July 1977 the 90th once again upgraded its aircraft, this time to the F-4G, which performed a ground radar suppression and destruction mission.\nThe squadron had both F-4G and F-4E aircraft assigned, operating in \"hunter-killer\" roles.\nEach F-4G was paired with an F-4E during each mission, and the G models would point out threat radar sites to the E models for attack, as well as attacking using their own armaments.\nThis multiplied the force being applied without having to purchase more of the expensive G models.\nDuring the late 1970s and 1980s, the squadron provided training and support to other units throughout the Pacific, as well as ensuring the readiness of its own pilots and aircraft.\nThe unit participated in numerous Cope Thunder exercises hosted at Clark AB, as well as Pitch Black in Darwin, Australia, and other exercises in South Korea.\nBy 1990, however, the Philippines had expressed a desire for the withdrawal of American military forces in the islands.\nIn May 1991 the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron was reassigned to the [21st Tactical Fighter Wing](https://bliptext.com/articles/21st-tactical-fighter-wing) located at [Elmendorf Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/elmendorf-air-force-base), Alaska.\nIn September 1991 the 90th was redesignated the 90th Fighter Squadron and became part of the [21st Operations Group](https://bliptext.com/articles/21st-operations-group).\nThis association did not last long, however.\n# [3d Bomb Wing B-26B-50-DL Invaders during the Korean War. Serial 44-34306 identifiable. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f2/3dbg-b-26-44-34306.jpg]\n# [Martin B-57B-MA Serial 53-3896 of the 3d Bomb Wing. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/54/B-57b-3dbw-japan.jpg]\n# [90th TFS North American F-100D-90-NA Super Sabre 56-3304 Bien Hoa Air Base, South Vietnam, 1967 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/90th///TFS///North///American///F-100D-90-NA///Super///Sabre///56-3304///1967.jpg]\n# [F-4D-28-MC Phantom II 65-0755 of the 90th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base, Taiwan, 1974 | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e1/F-4D///Detachment///of///the///90th///Tactical///Fighter///Squadron///at///CCK///Air///Base%2C///Taiwan.jpg]\n# [McDonnell Douglas F-4G-42-MC Phantom\nSerial 69-0275 of the 90th TFS/3d TFW Clark AFB, Philippines, 1979. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/F-4g-69-0275-pn-90tfs-3tfw-clark-1979.jpg]\n\n## Post-Cold War\nIn June 1991 [Mount Pinatubo](https://bliptext.com/articles/mount-pinatubo) erupted in the Philippines and the Air Force quickly decided to evacuate its personnel and equipment from Clark AB.\nThe 3d Tactical Fighter Wing remained in the Philippines during [Desert Shield](https://bliptext.com/articles/gulf-war) and [Desert Storm](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-desert-storm) due to instability in the Philippines.\nHowever, it was not going to remain in the islands for very long.\nIt became a 'paper' unit briefly while the Chief of Staff, General [Merrill McPeak](https://bliptext.com/articles/merrill-mcpeak), decided where to send the wing.\nHe selected Elmendorf.\nThe 21st Tactical Fighter Wing was inactivated and the 3d Wing replaced it as the lead wing at Elmendorf on 19 December 1991.\nWith the establishment of the 3d Wing on Elmendorf, the 90th Fighter Squadron was once again reunited with its old wing.\nWhile these changes occurred with the 3d Wing, the 90th Fighter Squadron deployed six F-4G crews to join other Wild Weasel squadrons and coalition forces in Sheikh Isa, Bahrain for the [Gulf War](https://bliptext.com/articles/gulf-war).\nThe six crews were attached to the [81st Tactical Fighter Squadron](https://bliptext.com/articles/81st-tactical-fighter-squadron) and were known as the Philippine Expeditionary Force (PEF).\nDuring combat operations, PEF crews destroyed multiple Iraqi SAM sites.\nThis was the last combat deployment for the 90th while operating F-4Gs.\nUpon relocating to Elmendorf, the unit gained a new aircraft, the [McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle](https://bliptext.com/articles/mcdonnell-douglas-f-15e-strike-eagle).\nThis two-seat dual role updated version of the [F-15C Eagle](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-15-eagle) had more survivability enhancements than any other fighter aircraft at the time.\nIt carried a wide array of armament as it performed both air-to-air and air-to-surface attack missions.\nSince arriving in Alaska, the 90th Fighter Squadron participated in numerous training [exercises](https://bliptext.com/articles/military-exercise) in the lower 48 states and other areas of the world.\nThese training exercises included Polar Thrust, Cope Thunder, Tandem Thrust, Cope Thaw, and [Red Flag](https://bliptext.com/articles/red-flag-usaf) in locations such as [Mountain Home Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/mountain-home-air-force-base), Idaho, [Osan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/osan-air-base), Korea, [Andersen Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/andersen-air-force-base), [Guam](https://bliptext.com/articles/guam), [Naval Air Station Fallon](https://bliptext.com/articles/naval-air-station-fallon), Nevada, and [Nellis Air Force Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/nellis-air-force-base), Nevada.\nThe squadron also developed a reputation for safety in its training.\nOn 20 February 1996 the squadron received the [Alaska Governor](https://bliptext.com/articles/alaska-governor)'s Safety Award conferred through the Alaska Department of Labor.\nThis was the first time a military organization won the state award since its inception in 1980.\nIn addition to exercises, the 90th Fighter Squadron also undertook real-world deployments during the 1990s and early 2000s (decade).\nFrom October 1995 until January 1996 the squadron deployed 8 F-15Es and 193 personnel to [Aviano Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/aviano-air-base), Italy in support of [Operation Deny Flight](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-deny-flight) and [Operation Joint Endeavor](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-joint-endeavor).\nIn February 1998 the squadron deployed 18 F-15Es and over 200 personnel to Kwangju Air Base and [Taegu Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/taegu-air-base), both in Korea.\nWhile there, the unit flew 1200 joint combat training sorties.\nPersonnel and aircraft redeployed in June 1998.\nIn 2001 the 90th began a series of deployments which took members of the squadron to the Middle East and [Southwest Asia](https://bliptext.com/articles/southwest-asia).\nIn March of that year, the 90th participated in a 90-day deployment in support of [Operation Northern Watch](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-northern-watch), patrolling the northern [No-fly zone](https://bliptext.com/articles/no-fly-zone) in [Iraq](https://bliptext.com/articles/iraq).\nThe squadron sent 154 personnel and 10 F-15Es to [Incirlik Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/incirlik-air-base), Turkey and returned to Elmendorf on 9 June 2001.\nIn October that year, 18 F-15Es were deployed to Kwangju Air Base, Korea, in support of Afghanistan operations.\nWhile deployed pilots flew practice strike missions and provided long-range interdiction strike capability in the region during the absence of the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), they also flew missions over South Korea and repaired base infrastructure while there.\nThe squadron redeployed from 20 to 23 December.\nThe 90th Fighter Squadron participated in an historic event on 4 September 2002.\nTwo [Royal Australian Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/royal-australian-air-force) [exchange officers](https://bliptext.com/articles/exchange-officer), [Flight Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/flight-lieutenant) Paul Simmons and [Flight Lieutenant](https://bliptext.com/articles/flight-lieutenant) Tony Southwood, paired up to fly one of the 90th's F-15Es.\nThis was the first time Australian pilots flew an American aircraft in the Pacific Theatre.\nIn 2003 the squadron undertook another deployment in the Pacific in support of [Operation Enduring Freedom](https://bliptext.com/articles/operation-enduring-freedom).\nThe 90th sent 18 F-15Es to bases in the Pacific, including Osan Air Base, [Kunsan Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/kunsan-air-base), (both in Korea), Kadena Air Base, Japan and Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.\nThe deployment included 592 personnel from mid-February until mid-May.\nKwangju AB, Korea, once again became home to members of the 90th Fighter Squadron in 2004.\nIn August the squadron deployed 12 F-15Es in a rotation.\nThe unit was temporarily designated the 90th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and assigned to the 3d Air Expeditionary Group.\nWhile deployed the unit flew more than 1100 sorties over the Korean Peninsula and provided two important flights to distinguished visitors, [Republic of Korea Air Force](https://bliptext.com/articles/republic-of-korea-air-force) Brigadier General Ko and Republic of Korea General Kim, Commander Korean Ground Forces.\nIn 2005 the squadron focused on training and preparation for its next real-world deployment.\nAmidst the training and exercises, however, the squadron was able to showcase their talent with participation in the Aero India Airshow and with a flyby at the [United States Air Force Academy](https://bliptext.com/articles/united-states-air-force-academy) before the Air Force-Army football game.\nAdditionally, the F-15Es completed an upgrade of their weapons systems.\nThis upgrade allowed the aircraft to carry and use more advanced weaponry, including the [Joint Direct Attack Munition](https://bliptext.com/articles/joint-direct-attack-munition) and eventually the [Small Diameter Bomb](https://bliptext.com/articles/small-diameter-bomb).\nAs 2006 progressed, the 90th Fighter Squadron began to prepare for significant changes in its mission and weapons system.\nThe F-15Es were scheduled to relocate to Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, through the [BRAC](https://bliptext.com/articles/base-realignment-and-closure) decisions in 2005.\nReplacing those F-15Es, the 90th began receiving the advanced [F-22 Raptor](https://bliptext.com/articles/f-22-raptor) in August 2007, which greatly enhanced the 90th Fighter Squadron's ability to perform its duties.\nIn August 2022 twelve of the squadron's F-22 Raptors deployed to [Łask Air Base](https://bliptext.com/articles/ask-air-base), Poland as part of [NATO](https://bliptext.com/articles/nato)'s air shielding mission.\nIn August 2024 some of squadron's [F-22 Raptors](https://bliptext.com/articles/lockheed-martin-f-22-raptor) jets have arrived in the Middle East in a show of force meant to deter [Iran](https://bliptext.com/articles/iran) and its proxies from attacking [Israel](https://bliptext.com/articles/israel) following the assassination of a Hamas leader.\n# [\"Philippine Expeditionary Force\" back home at Clark AB, RP before Mount Pinatubo eruption. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/PEF///1991.jpg]\n# [A 90th FS F-15E Strike Eagle flies over glacial fields during a training mission. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cc/F-15E-el-4.jpg]\n# [The first of 40 F-22A Raptors at Elmendorf. The aircraft is flown and maintained by the active-duty Air Force's 90th Fighter Squadron and Air Force Reserve 302d Fighter Squadron. | upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/76/F-22-el-1.jpg]\n\n# Lineage\n\n## Assignments\n\n## Stations\n\n## Aircraft\n\n## Operations","revisionCount":0},"hasMore":false,"nextCursor":null}