555th Fighter Squadron

• World War II Origins: The 555th Fighter Squadron, nicknamed the "Triple Nickel," was originally activated in November 1942 as the 555th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), flying B-26 Marauders in the European Theater. • Transition to Fighter Role: In 1964, the squadron was reactivated as the 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron and transitioned to flying the F-4 Phantom II, becoming a key combat unit during the Vietnam War. • Vietnam War Aces: The 555th earned a legendary reputation during the Vietnam War, with its pilots credited with 39 MiG kills, making it the top MiG-killing squadron of the conflict. • "Triple Nickel" Nickname: The unit's famous nickname, "Triple Nickel," comes from its numerical designation (555), and its emblem features three overlapping nickels. • First MiG-21 Kill: On July 10, 1966, the 555th scored the first USAF MiG-21 kill of the Vietnam War, cementing its place in air combat history. • Decorated Service: The squadron received three Presidential Unit Citations and four Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its valor and effectiveness in combat during Vietnam. • Modern Era Aircraft: Post-Vietnam, the 555th flew F-15 Eagles and currently operates the F-16 Fighting Falcon, continuing its legacy as a premier Air Force fighter squadron. • Aviano Air Base: Since 1994, the 555th has been stationed at Aviano Air Base, Italy, as part of the 31st Fighter Wing, playing a vital role in NATO operations in Europe. • Balkan Operations: The squadron participated in Operations Deny Flight, Deliberate Force, and Allied Force, supporting NATO air campaigns over Bosnia and Kosovo in the 1990s. • Heritage and Camaraderie: The 555th maintains a strong squadron heritage, with reunions and events that honor past members, including Vietnam-era aces and support personnel.