8th Bomb Squadron

• Formation Date: The 8th Bomb Squadron was originally activated on 20 June 1917 as the 8th Aero Squadron, making it one of the oldest units in the United States Air Force. • World War I Service: The squadron deployed to France in 1918 and served on the Western Front, flying reconnaissance and observation missions in support of American and Allied ground troops. • Distinguished Unit: The 8th Bomb Squadron is one of the few USAF units that has participated in combat operations during World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terrorism. • Nickname: The unit is known as the "Blackbirds," a nickname that has been associated with the squadron for decades. • Pearl Harbor Survivor: The squadron was stationed at Clark Field in the Philippines during the attack on Pearl Harbor and suffered heavy losses when Japanese forces struck the Philippines shortly after. • World War II Pacific Action: Flying B-25 Mitchells and later B-24 Liberators, the 8th Bomb Squadron conducted daring raids against Japanese targets in the Southwest Pacific, including the famous Battle of the Bismarck Sea. • Historic Aircraft: Over its history, the squadron has flown a variety of notable bombers, including the B-18 Bolo, B-25 Mitchell, B-26 Marauder, B-24 Liberator, B-57 Canberra, and the B-52 Stratofortress. • Korean War Valor: The 8th Bomb Squadron flew night intruder missions over North Korea in B-26 Invaders, disrupting enemy supply lines and earning multiple commendations for bravery and effectiveness. • Vietnam War Operations: The squadron was heavily engaged in combat missions during the Vietnam War, flying B-57 Canberras from bases in Southeast Asia and participating in numerous campaigns. • Modern Era: Today, the 8th Bomb Squadron is part of the 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, and operates the B-1B Lancer, continuing its legacy of global strike and precision bombing.