182d Fighter Interceptor Squadron

182d Fighter Squadron
182d Fighter Squadron General Dynamics F-16C Block 30F Fighting Falcon 87-255 returning to Lackland Air Force Base after being painted to honor the 65th anniversary of the 182d Fighter Squadron affiliation with the Texas ANG
Active	1943–present
Country	United States
Allegiance	Texas
Branch	Air National Guard
Type	Squadron
Role	Fighter
Part of	Texas Air National Guard
Garrison/HQ	Kelly Field Annex, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas
Nickname(s)	Lonestar Gunfighters
Tail Code	SA
Engagements	World War II Korean War
Insignia
Emblem of the 182d Fighter Squadron

The 182d Fighter Squadron (182 FS) is a unit of the Texas Air National Guard 149th Fighter Wing located at Kelly Field Annex, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. The 115th is equipped with the F-16C/D Fighting Falcon.

Established in mid-1943 as a P-47 Thunderbolt fighter squadron, trained under I Fighter Command on Long Island and Massachusetts. Moved to England, arriving in January 1944. Began operations with IX Fighter Command on 14 March and flew a fighter sweep over the English Channel coast of France. Made strafing and bombing attacks on airfields, rail and highway bridges, trains, vehicles, flak positions, and V-weapon sites to help prepare for the invasion of France.

Supported the landings in Normandy early in June 1944 and began operations from the Continent later the same month. Aided in the taking of Cherbourg, participated in the air operations that prepared the way for the Allied breakthrough at St Lo on 25 July, and supported ground forces during their drive across France.

Continued to support ground forces, participated in the assault against the Siegfried Line, and took part in the Battle of the Bulge (December 1944 – January 1945) by attacking rail lines and trains, marshalling yards, roads and vehicles, armored columns, and gun positions. Operated with the Allied forces that pushed across the Rhine and into Germany.

After V-E Day, served with the army of occupation, being assigned to United States Air Forces in Europe. Inactivated in Germany on 20 August 1946.