64th FIS

• Origins in World War II: The 64th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS) was first activated as the 64th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor) on January 15, 1941, at Savannah Army Air Base, Georgia. • Combat in North Africa: The squadron fought in the North African Campaign during World War II, supporting Operation Torch and earning a Distinguished Unit Citation for its efforts in Tunisia. • P-40 Warhawk Operations: During WWII, the 64th FIS flew the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, a key American fighter of the early war years, before transitioning to more advanced aircraft. • Transition to P-47 Thunderbolt: Later in WWII, the squadron re-equipped with Republic P-47 Thunderbolts, which improved their combat effectiveness in the Mediterranean Theater. • Postwar Inactivation and Reactivation: The unit was inactivated in 1945 after WWII, but reactivated in the early Cold War period to meet new air defense needs. • Cold War Air Defense: The 64th FIS was reactivated in 1952 at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, flying F-94 Starfire and F-89 Scorpion jets to protect U.S. airspace from Soviet bombers. • F-101 Voodoo Era: During the 1960s, the squadron operated the McDonnell F-101B Voodoo, a supersonic interceptor designed for all-weather operations against enemy bombers. • Final Aircraft – F-106 Delta Dart: In its last years, the 64th FIS flew the Convair F-106A Delta Dart, one of the most advanced interceptors of the era, until the unit's final inactivation in 1987. • Unique Heritage: The squadron's mascot and emblem was "The Fighting Cocks," featuring a rooster, symbolizing their aggressive spirit and combat readiness. • Legacy of Excellence: Throughout its history, the 64th FIS earned multiple unit citations and campaign streamers, reflecting its distinguished combat and peacetime air defense service.