563rd Flying Training Squadron
The 563rd Flying Training Squadron (also 563d Flying Training Squadron) is an inactive United States Air Force unit. It was part of the 12th Flying Training Wing at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, where it operated the Boeing T-43 Bobcat conducting navigator training until inactivating on 19 November 2010.
| 563rd Flying Training Squadron | |
|---|---|
A T-43 Bobcat from Randolph AFB | |
| Active | 1942–1945; 1947–1949; 1953–1957; 1962–1972; 1975–1989; 1993–1996; 1999–2010 |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Air Force |
| Role | Flying Training |
| Part of | Air Education and Training Command |
| Engagements | European Theater of Operations Vietnam War |
| Decorations | Distinguished Unit Citation Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device Air Force Outstanding Unit Award |
| Insignia | |
| 563rd Flying Training Squadron emblem | |
| 563rd Fighter-Bomber Squadron emblem | |
| 563rd Bombardment Squadron emblem | |
The squadron was originally activated during World War II as the 563d Bombardment Squadron. After training in the United States, it deployed to the European Theater of Operations, where it participated in the strategic bombing campaign against Germany. The squadron was twice awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation for its combat actions. Following V-E Day, it returned to the United States and was inactivated. The squadron was briefly active in the reserve in the late 1940s, but does not appear to have been fully manned or equipped.
The squadron was redesignated the 563d Fighter-Bomber Squadron and activated in 1953. It moved to Europe, but was inactivated in 1957, when it was replaced by another unit. It was activated again as the 563d Tactical Fighter Squadron in 1962. It conducted frequent deployments, but focused on training pilots for operations in Southeast Asia. Elements of the squadron participated in combat there, although the squadron remained in the United States. From 1973, it conducted Wild Weasel training. It deployed elements for Desert Storm before inactivating in 1992.