The men and women of the 36th Fighter Squadron are inspired by the squadron's long and illustrious past. "Flying Fiends" have engaged our country's foes in the skies of France during World War 1, across the Pacific in World War 2, up and down the Korean Peninsula during the Korean conflict, and "Downtown" in Route Pack Six of the Vietnam War. Today we are poised to seize control of the sky over an aggressor's homeland and destroy his capability to wage war, if he dares. 

This is the history of the "Fiends", but it is only a sketch of the trials and victories of those who preceded us. It is sterile, but use your imagination to restore the smells of castor oil and cordite, the constant humid heat of the South Pacific, the gut wrenching of a break for a Japanese Zero or North Vietnamese SAM. Imagine yourself faced with the same challenges and take pride in their victories. Be proud that you are a "Fiend" and be determined to do as well as they did when you are called.

Those who preceded us were no different than we are today. But their challenges have been faced; ours lie ahead. They have bequeathed to us a tradition of selflessness, perseverance, and courage. They have brought honor upon this squadron. Our task is to pass to the next "Fiends" a tradition of being prepared diligent in peace; unrelenting and victorious in war. Perhaps the first step in accomplishing that task is to recognize what was done before. That is the purpose of this history.

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-Lt Col Schwetke, 78th Commander (88-90')