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A week in history July 16-31

On July 26, 1943, 2nd Lt. John “Red” Morgan, 326th Bombardment Squadron B-17 Flying Fortress co-pilot, part of the 92d Bombardment Group, was serving during a bombing mission over Occupied Europe. Morgan performed actions that resulted in his being awarded the highest United States Military decoration, The Congressional Medal of Honor. (Courtesy Photo)

A week in history July 16-31

One year and six months after the first missile was delivered to Fairchild, the 567th Strategic Missile Squadron accepted the first Series-E Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile complex near Reardon July 29, 1961, with the first Atlas E missile being operational two months later. (Courtesy Photo)

A week in history July 16 - 31

Published July 25, 2017
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Remembering the extensive impact Fairchild Air Force Base has had on the Air Force and operations around the world is important during our 75th year of providing responsive, precise air refueling and operational support for the full range of military operations.

July 20, 1951
A dedication ceremony was held to rename the base after General Muir S. Fairchild. Following the dedication ceremony, the first B-36 Peacemaker assigned to the base arrived.

July 26, 1943
On this day, 2nd Lt. John “Red” Morgan, 326th Bombardment Squadron B-17 Flying Fortress co-pilot, part of the 92d Bombardment Group, was serving during a bombing mission over Occupied Europe. Morgan performed actions that resulted in his being awarded the highest United States Military decoration, The Congressional Medal of Honor.

During this mission, a German fighter attack crippled Morgan’s B-17 and severely injured the pilot. Despite having to fight the wounded pilot for control of the plane, Morgan, was able to pull the damaged aircraft back into formation and continue the bombing run for two hours. Morgan was able to successfully complete the bombing run and land safely back in England. The pilot died of injuries sustained during the mission.

July 29, 1961
One year and six months after the first missile was delivered to Fairchild, the 567th Strategic Missile Squadron accepted the first Series-E Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile complex near Reardon, with the first Atlas E missile being operational two months later.