333rd Fighter Squadron

• World War II Origins: The 333rd Fighter Squadron was constituted on 18 August 1942 and activated on 23 August 1942 at Mitchel Field, New York, as part of the famed 4th Fighter Group. • “Fighting Shamrocks” Nickname: The squadron is known as the "Fighting Shamrocks," referencing their traditional insignia and Irish heritage symbolism. • P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang Era: During World War II, the squadron flew the P-47 Thunderbolt and later transitioned to the P-51 Mustang, providing bomber escort and engaging in air superiority missions over Europe. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The 333rd Fighter Squadron received a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions in the European Theater, demonstrating extraordinary heroism in combat. • Post-War Inactivation and Reactivation: The squadron was inactivated in 1945 after WWII but was reactivated and inactivated several times during the following decades, adapting to new aircraft and missions. • Korean War Service: Reactivated in the 1950s, the squadron trained pilots but did not see combat during the Korean War. • Transition to Jet Age: Over its history, the 333rd has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre, F-100 Super Sabre, F-105 Thunderchief, F-4 Phantom II, and the F-15E Strike Eagle. • Modern Mission: Today, the 333rd Fighter Squadron is part of the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina, where it serves as an F-15E Strike Eagle training squadron. • Combat Deployments: Squadron members and instructors have deployed overseas in support of Operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. • Heritage and Honors: The 333rd Fighter Squadron’s legacy includes multiple campaign streamers, awards, and recognition for its contributions to American airpower across eight decades.