494th Fighter Squadron

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 494th Fighter Squadron

The 494th Fighter Squadron, known as the "Panthers," was originally activated in 1941 as part of the United States Army Air Forces. During World War II, the squadron flew combat missions in the European Theater, providing crucial support in the Normandy invasion and subsequent campaigns. Reactivated during the Cold War, the 494th became a key component of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, operating from RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom. Today, the squadron flies the F-35A Lightning II, maintaining its legacy of excellence in air combat and supporting NATO operations.

Unit Members

Ron Terhune

U.S. Air Force

494th Fighter SquadronView Profile

Curtis Wood

U.S. Air Force

494th Fighter SquadronView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 494th Fighter Squadron

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origin in World War II: The 494th Fighter Squadron was originally activated as the 494th Bombardment Squadron (Medium) on August 20, 1942, flying B-25 Mitchell bombers in the Pacific Theater. • Nickname "Panthers": The squadron is famously known as the "Panthers," a name reflecting its aggressive and agile fighting spirit. • Transition to Fighter-Bombers: After World War II, the unit transitioned from bombers to fighter-bombers, flying aircraft such as the F-84 Thunderjet and F-100 Super Sabre. • European Presence: The 494th moved to RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, in 1960, where it remains today as part of the 48th Fighter Wing. • Vietnam War Involvement: During the Vietnam War, the squadron deployed personnel and aircraft to Southeast Asia, supporting combat operations. • Operation Desert Storm: In 1991, the 494th participated in Operation Desert Storm, flying F-111F Aardvarks and delivering precision strikes against strategic targets in Iraq. • Modernization to F-15E: In the early 1990s, the squadron upgraded to the F-15E Strike Eagle, a dual-role fighter for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. • Global Deployments: The Panthers have deployed worldwide, including to Afghanistan and Iraq in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The 494th has received numerous awards for excellence, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award multiple times. • Notable Heritage: The squadron's "Panther" mascot and distinctive tail flashes are well recognized in NATO and symbolize their legacy, camaraderie, and combat prowess.