Col. David B. Lyons, 388th Fighter Wing commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. George R. Watkins during the 34th Fighter Squadron activation ceremony July 17 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The 34th will be the first combat squadron to fly the Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, the F-35A. The squadron has an extremely rich history. After many contributions in major U.S. conflicts, the 34th was relocated to Hill AFB on Dec. 8, 1975, where they became the first fighter squadron to receive the F-16 fighter aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alex R. Lloyd/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Lt. Col. George R. Watkins addresses the audience and squadron members during the 34th Fighter Squadron activation ceremony July 17 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The 34th will be the first combat squadron to fly the Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, the F-35A. The squadron has an extremely rich history. After many contributions in major U.S. conflicts, the 34th was relocated to Hill AFB on Dec. 8, 1975, where they became the first fighter squadron to receive the F-16 fighter aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alex R. Lloyd/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Col. David B. Lyons unfurls the 34th Fighter Squadron’s guidon during its activation ceremony July 17 at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The 34th will be the first combat squadron to fly the Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft, the F-35A. The F-35A is the U.S. Air Force's latest fifth-generation fighter. With its aerodynamic performance and advanced integrated avionics, it will provide next-generation stealth, enhanced situational awareness, and reduced vulnerability for the United States and allied nations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alex R. Lloyd/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

34th Fighter Squadron activates, commences Hill's combat F-35 era

Published July 20, 2015