238th Combat Training Squadron now dual doc reconnaissance squadron

  • Published
  • By By Charles J. Haymond
  • 55th Wing/Public Affairs

The 238th Combat Training Squadron held a redesignation ceremony becoming the 238th Reconnaissance Squadron at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Oct. 18, 2024.

The National Guard Bureau granted the name change as the 238th adopts their reconnaissance mission set.

Col. Wendy Squarcia, 170th Group commander, began the coordination three years ago. Senator Deb Fischer and her staff navigated specific language into the National Defense Authorization Act which authorized continued formal training unit duties by Air National Guard personnel, to include the 238th through Oct. 2024 to all the necessary transition toward a combat coded organization.

Before this change, the 238th CTS worked alongside their active duty counterparts, the 338th CTS, to ensure the 55th Wing’s aircrews were fully trained and mission qualified for deployments. The partnership will continue to bolster unity between the active duty and guard with their dual designed operational capability statement.

“Whether it’s training aircrew on a new flightdeck avionics suite or coordinating international programs with our Royal Air Force partners, we are there,” said Lt. Col. Lowell Wallace, 238th RS commander. “Whether it’s developing the 55th Wing’s new mission qualification training program or talking flying with motivated junior aviators, we are there. We do this while flying day in and day out because we love what we do, and we are privileged to be part of such an amazing Total Force partnership.”

As the squadron transitions into a dual mission requirement, Wallace’s final message to the 238th was to continue their rich heritage and embrace their new reconnaissance duty.  

“Let us move forward with pride, determination and unity of effort,” Wallace said. “Continuing our legacy of success and knowing that we are part of something greater than ourselves – a commitment to our country, the great state of Nebraska, our mission, and each other.”