13th Fighter Squadron
“PaNthers”
Squadron History
The 313th Bombardment Squadron was created during World War II as a part of the 21st Bombardment Group. Starting in Kentucky, it moved to Mississippi and South Carolina. It focused on training medium bombers and taking part in anti-submarine warfare missions. It relocated to Florida and converted to Martin B-26 Marauders. The squadron played a vital role in training until it disbanded in October 1943.
During the Vietnam War, the 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron was created in May 1966 at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base. It was a part of the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing and later the 432d Tactical Reconnaissance Wing. Using F-105 Thunderchief and F-4D Phantom II aircraft, the squadron carried out Wild Weasel missions to destroy North Vietnamese Surface-to-air missile sites. Thanks to its successes, the squadron shot down 11 MiGs and got 21 aerial victories. It received numerous awards, including campaign streamers, Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards with Valor, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. The squadron was deactivated in June 1975 after the war.
The 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron underwent reactivation at MacDill Air Force Base in 1976 to provide training for pilots and weapon system officers. It was a part of the 56th Tactical Fighter Wing until deactivated in July 1982. After that, the squadron was reactivated in 1985 at Misawa Air Base in Japan, making it the first permanent fighter squadron stationed in mainland Japan since 1972. The squadron shifted to using F-16A/B Fighting Falcons and later F-16CJs. It took part in numerous deployments, including supporting Operation Southern Watch in Iraq and Operation Inherent Resolve in Jordan, where it carried out combat missions against the Islamic State.
