The 125th FS is the operational component of the group and has flown the F-16C since mid-1993. The unit was formed as the 125th Observation Squadron in November 1940 and placed under active Air Force control two months later, until inactivated in December 1945. Federal recognition took place in February 1947 as the 125th Fighter Squadron, operating the P-51D until June 1950, when the F-84B was delivered and a corresponding change was made to Fighter-Bomber Squadron status. The squadron was recalled from October 1950 until July 1952, when it acquired the F-51D. Conversion to F-80C began in 1954, followed in 1957 by the F-86D and a change to Fighter-Interceptor Squadron status and activation of the 138th FIG. The C-97F was assigned in January 1960, the 125th becoming an Air Transport Squadron. A short period of active duty began in October 1961 for the Berlin crisis, with the C-97G assigned. The unit was redesignated the 125th MAS in January 1966, with the C-124C replacing C-97 in February 1968. The unit became a Tactical Fighter Squadron in January 1973, flying the F-100D. The Super Sabre was replaced by the A-7D in July 1978.