361 TEWS

• Origins and Name: The 361st Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (TEWS) traces its roots to World War II, originally constituted as the 861st Bombardment Squadron in 1943. • Role in Vietnam: The squadron is best known for its service in the Vietnam War, where it operated EC-47 aircraft for electronic warfare, specializing in signals intelligence and direction finding. • Operation "Phyllis Ann": The 361 TEWS was a key participant in Operation Phyllis Ann, which involved airborne radio direction finding to locate enemy transmitters. • Aircraft: The main aircraft operated by the squadron was the Douglas EC-47, a modified version of the C-47 Skytrain, equipped for electronic surveillance. • Base of Operations: During the Vietnam War, the 361 TEWS was primarily based at Nha Trang Air Base, but also operated from Pleiku, Tan Son Nhut, and other locations. • Decorations: The squadron earned several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm for its service. • Inactivation: The 361 TEWS was inactivated in 1973 following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Vietnam and the end of its mission there. • Notable Missions: The squadron played a vital role in the Battle of Dak To (1967) by helping locate enemy positions via radio intercepts. • Unit Emblem: The official emblem of the 361 TEWS features a bat and radar, symbolizing the unit’s clandestine and electronic warfare roles. • Legacy: Former members of the 361 TEWS are active in veterans’ associations and reunions, preserving the squadron's unique history in airborne electronic warfare.