About this Unit
The 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron (23rd TASS) was first activated in 1966 during the Vietnam War, where it played a crucial role in directing air strikes and providing close air support for ground forces. The squadron operated primarily North American OV-10 Bronco and Cessna O-2 Skymaster aircraft, specializing in forward air control missions in Southeast Asia. After the Vietnam War, the 23rd TASS continued its service in various training and operational roles, including support for joint exercises and NATO commitments. The unit was inactivated in 1991 as part of post-Cold War restructuring, but its legacy endures as a pioneer in tactical air support operations.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: The 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron (23rd TASS) traces its lineage back to the 23rd Observation Squadron, activated in 1942, serving in reconnaissance and liaison roles during WWII.
• Role in Vietnam War: Reactivated in 1966, the 23rd TASS played a crucial role in forward air control (FAC) and close air support missions, directing air strikes in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
• Callsign "Nail": The 23rd TASS was famously known by the callsign “Nail,” which became synonymous with its FAC operations during the Southeast Asia conflict.
• Operation Ranch Hand Support: The 23rd TASS provided air cover and coordination for “Operation Ranch Hand,” the aerial defoliation missions using Agent Orange in Vietnam.
• Distinguished Aircraft: The squadron operated the Cessna O-1 Bird Dog and later the Cessna O-2 Skymaster and North American OV-10 Bronco, aircraft specialized for FAC and light attack roles.
• Heroic FACs: Pilots of the 23rd TASS, known as “Nail FACs,” often flew at low altitudes under intense fire to mark enemy positions for strike aircraft, and several members earned high valor awards, including Silver Stars and Distinguished Flying Crosses.
• Laotian Operations: The unit was deeply involved in the “Secret War” in Laos, supporting CIA and indigenous forces in covert operations against North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao troops.
• Post-Vietnam Assignments: After Vietnam, the 23rd TASS was stationed at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, and later at Howard AFB, Panama, supporting Southern Command operations in Central and South America.
• Inactivation and Legacy: The squadron was inactivated in 1991 as the need for dedicated FAC units waned post-Cold War, but its traditions live on in modern USAF air support units.
• Decorations: The 23rd TASS earned multiple unit awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, reflecting its valor and effectiveness in combat operations.
