31st Operations Support Squadron

MISSION

​The 31st Operations Support Squadron supports the wing's combat-ready air control squadron and two combat-ready F-16CG fighter squadrons. The unit develops wing war plans, administers weapons and tactics programs and provides current operations planning, air traffic control, airfield management, weather and intelligence support. It is the focal point for all flying operations and contingency activities and maximizes readiness for taskings as directed by NATO and the U.S. European Command.

HISTORY
The 31st Operations Squadron was first activated at Turner Field, Ga., on June 16, 1952, and then inactivated on July 1, 1952. The unit was redesignated the 31st Operations Support Squadron on Oct. 28, 1991, and activated on Nov. 1, 1991 at Homestead Air Force Base, Fla. The unit was inactivated at Homestead on April 1, 1994 and was immediately activated at Aviano, Air Base, Italy. 

The 31st OSS has five decorations:
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, April 1, 1994 - April 1,1996
AFOUA, April 2, 1996 - April 1, 1998
AFOUA, April 2, 1998 - April 1, 2000
AFOUA, March 24, 1999 - June 10, 1999
AFOUA, Oct. 1, 2000 - Oct. 1, 2002

UNIT EMBLEM
The squadron emblem is symbolic of the support given to all NATO organizations as stated by the squadron motto: "Support and Sustain." The yellow represents the excellence required in Air Force personnel. The blue alludes to the sky, its primary theater of operations. The lion grasping a sword reflects the dedication, abilities, and courage of the unit's personnel who are employed to defend with peace. The flight signifies the squadron's commitment to support the flying mission. The emblem design was originally approved on April 14, 1995.