Myrtle Beach in Horry County, South Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
Activation of the 354th Fighter Day Wing
Photographed By Michael Herrick, March 19, 2017
1. Activation of the 354th Fighter Day Wing Marker
In the Fall of 1956, officers and airmen from the United States Air Force were assigned to newly constructed Myrtle Beach Air Force Base to start a new fighter wing. Their task was reactivation of the famous World War II “Pioneer Mustang Group," designated the 354th Fighter Day Wing, commanded by Colonel Francis S. Gabreski, top fighter ace in the European Theater during World War II.
Local residents involved included Colonel James Hackler, who was the Fighter Group Commander. Other locals were: Lieutenant George Branch, fighter pilot in the 355th Fighter Day Squadron; Lieutenant Bill Rutherford, fighter pilot in the 356th Fighter Day Squadron; and Captain Robert Pasqualicchio, Commander of the 356th Fighter Day Squadron.
Dedication ceremonies for the 354th Fighter Day Wing occurred December 7, 1956, with a host of World War II warriors, civilians and United States Air Force dignitaries. In early 1957, the Wing began receiving new F-100D aircraft from North American Aviation.
Topics. This memorial is listed in this topic list: Military.
Location. 33° 39.644′ N, 78° 55.71′ W. Marker is in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in Horry County. Memorial is at the intersection of Farrow Parkway and South Kings Highway, on the right when traveling
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. World War II Missions Performed at Myrtle Beach Army Air Field (a few steps from this marker); Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Historical Origin (a few steps from this marker); 354th Fighter Group World War II History (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named 354th Fighter Group World War II History (within shouting distance of this marker); 354th Fighter Group History (within shouting distance of this marker); Wall of Service (within shouting distance of this marker); Archaeological and Historical Data (within shouting distance of this marker); Myrtle Beach Army Air Field / Myrtle Beach Air Force Base (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Myrtle Beach.
Photographed By Michael Herrick, March 19, 2017
2. Activation of the 354th Fighter Day Wing Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on March 22, 2017. It was originally submitted on March 22, 2017, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 195 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 22, 2017, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.
