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The 68th Fighter Squadron "Lightning Lancers," traditionally associated with the 347th Fighter Wing since World War II, has played an extensive role in the air operations of the U.S. Air Force. Originally designated as the 68th Pursuit Squadron, on Nov 20, 1940, the unit was activated Jan 15, 1941 at Selfridge Field, Michigan. The unit moved to Harding Field, Louisiana, in October 1941 for training. Upon completion of training, the unit sailed to Australia in February 1942 and from March until May ferried P-39 and P-40 aircraft to various fields in Australia. In May of that year, the unit was redesignated the 68th Fighter Squadron. From May through October 1942, the 68th became actively involved in the air defense of Tongatabu, Tonga Islands flying the P-40 aircraft.
The 68th was engaged in extensive combat operations and air defense throughout the South and Southwest Pacific from November 1942 until August 1945. During most of 1943, the 68th operated from Guadalcanal as part of the 347th Fighter Group, which later became the 347th Tactical Fighter Wing.
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