45th Reconnaissance Squadron
The 45th Reconnaissance Squadron is a United States Air Force unit. It is assigned to the 55th Operations Group and stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. It is one of the most decorated squadrons of the active duty United States Air Force with a combat record in three wars, and a peacetime record of vital contributions to worldwide reconnaissance, treaty monitoring, and pilot proficiency training.
| 45th Reconnaissance Squadron | |
|---|---|
45th Reconnaissance Squadron's RC-135 Cobra Ball together on the flightline at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. | |
| Active | 1943–1949; 1950–1971; 1971–1975; 1982–1989; 1994 – present |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Air Force |
| Type | Squadron |
| Role | Reconnaissance and Surveillance |
| Part of | 55th Operations Group |
| Garrison/HQ | Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska |
| Engagements |
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| Decorations |
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| Insignia | |
| 45th Reconnaissance Squadron emblem (approved 29 December 1952) | |
| 423d Night Fighter Squadron emblem | |
The unit was formed during World War II initially as a night interceptor squadron and deployed to England as part of Ninth Air Force. A lack of night interceptor aircraft led the squadron to be converted into a night photographic squadron engaging in combat missions over France, the Low Countries and Germany until the end of the war. It later saw service as a tactical reconnaissance squadron during the Korean War and Vietnam War. It was inactivated in 1994 as part of the cutbacks in the Air Force after the end of the Cold War.
Reactivated shortly afterwards, it assumed the mission of the former 24th Reconnaissance Squadron, which it replaced. Squadron personnel fly worldwide reconnaissance and treaty missions on demand, often on extremely short notice. The 45th Reconnaissance Squadron provides data for the National Command Authority, theater commanders, and international treaty members.