1st Reconnaissance Squadron
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Active | 5 March 1913 – present (111 years, 6 months) |
Country | ![]() |
Branch | ![]() |
Role | Aerial reconnaissance |
Size | Squadron |
Part of | Air Combat Command |
Garrison/HQ | Beale Air Force Base, California |
Tail code | "BB" |
Engagements | Mexico 1916–1917 World War I – Western Front ![]() World War II – American Theater World War II – Asiatic–Pacific Theater |
Decorations | Distinguished Unit Citation Presidential Unit Citation Air Force Meritorious Unit Award ![]() Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device Air Force Outstanding Unit Award |
Commanders | |
Notable commanders | Benjamin Delahauf Foulois |
Insignia | |
1st Reconnaissance Squadron emblem | ![]() |
100-year anniversary emblem | ![]() |
Aircraft flown | |
Reconnaissance | |
Trainer |
The 1st Reconnaissance Squadron is a United States Air Force squadron, assigned to the 9th Operations Group, Beale Air Force Base, California.
The 1st Reconnaissance Squadron is the United States military's oldest flying unit, first established on 5 March 1913. The squadron has maintained an unbroken heritage of over a century from its founding. Originally organized in anticipation of a potential breach in security along the border between the United States and Mexico, General John J. Pershing directed the 1st Aero Squadron to become the first tactical aviation unit to participate in American military action.[1] The 1st RS has flown 47 different aircraft while being stationed worldwide at 52 locations, including 4 stints at sea.[2]
Since 1922 the 1st Squadron has been associated with the 9th Bomb Group and the USAF 9th Reconnaissance Wing, where it continues to be an active flying training unit operating the Lockheed U-2 and the RQ-4 Global Hawk surveillance aircraft.[3]