[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 139 (Monday, September 9, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E872-E873]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF THE 103D ATTACK SQUADRON

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 9, 2024

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise in 
recognition of the distinct achievements and serviceable contributions 
of 103d Attack Squadron on the occasion of their 100th anniversary. For 
a century, the men and women of the 103d Attack Squadron have served 
our nation with distinction, dedication, resilience, and valor. As the 
oldest flying squadron in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and one of 
29 original National Guard observations squadrons, their contributions 
to our national defense are immeasurable and their legacy is one of 
innovation, excellence and steadfast bravery.
  The 103d Attack Squadron traces its lineage back to its formation in 
June 1924. Federally recognized as the 103d Observation Squadron and 
commanded by Major Charles Biddle, the 103d has been an integral part 
of American military history, participating in nearly every global 
conflict since World War II. The 103d flew a variety of training and 
observation aircraft until 1941 when the unit was ordered to active 
service, performing anti-submarine patrols along the New England coast. 
From 1943 through the end of World War II, the 103d flew photo 
reconnaissance missions in the F-5C in the China-Burma-India Theater.
  From the end of World War II, the 103d was redesignated over ten 
times and has operated continually since its inception. This unit has 
gallantly conducted aerial missions and continually maintained 
operational mission readiness in the following capacities: as a 
bombardment squadron, a reconnaissance squadron, a military airlift 
squadron, a tactical air support squadron, a fighter squadron and, 
finally in its current role, as an attack squadron. The men and women 
of the 103d Attack Squadron have skillfully operated over twenty 
distinctly different aircraft, providing over a century of global 
strike and air superiority capabilities for joint force operations in 
austere areas, worldwide. Their continual adaptation to the war-
fighting environment is a true testament to the resiliency, 
adaptability, and reliability of the men and women of this storied 
unit.
  Their unwavering dedication to duty and willingness to innovate to 
meet the needs of the ever-changing battlefIeld landscape is no better 
demonstrated than in their most recent transition from manned aircraft 
to unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The professionals of the 103d Attack 
Squadron employ the General Atomics MQ-9 in combat air patrols that 
directly support combatant commanders across the globe providing 
intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance gathering capabilities, 
combat search and rescue, and precision weapons employment in close air 
support operations. The 103d Attack Squadron is critical to the 
development and implementation of tactics, techniques and procedures 
used across the globe in MQ-9 missions.

[[Page E873]]

  Throughout its long history, the 103d Attack Squadron has embodied 
the core values of the United States Air Force: Integrity First, 
Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. They have safeguarded 
the nation's skies, provided critical support in times of war, and 
stood ready to respond when called upon. Their aircrew and superior 
operational support personnel have been, and continue to be, some of 
the most skilled and dedicated Airmen in the world.
  As we celebrate this historic milestone, it is my distinct honor to 
celebrate those who have faithfully served in the 103d Attack Squadron 
over the past century. Their sacrifices and those of their families 
have ensured our freedom and security. It is with deep gratitude that 
we acknowledge their service and pay tribute to their bravery.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 
100th anniversary of the 103d Attack Squadron and in extending a 
heartfelt thank you to the men and women who have served, and continue 
to serve, in this distinguished unit. May the next 100 years of Airmen 
serve with the same valor, honor, dignity, and dedication to duty as 
the exemplary men and women of the 103d Attack Squadron have so 
expertly demonstrated over the last century of service.

                          ____________________