JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
The 91st Cyberspace Operations Squadron at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland spent the week of Aug. 21-26 celebrating its 100th anniversary with a week of festivities designed to both honor its heritage and its cyber Airmen who accomplish the mission daily.
The 91st COS, now located at JBSA-Lackland, originally began Aug. 20, 1917, as the 91st Aero Squadron at Kelly Field, Texas, predating the establishment of the U.S. Air Force by a full 30 years. The 91st COS was one of five aero squadrons initially sent to France during World War I, where members racked up 21 aerial kills and included four Aerial Aces among their ranks. The unit went on to fly thousands of reconnaissance sorties in both World War II and the Korean War.
The 91st COS transitioned to the cyber domain in 2007 and currently operates underneath the 67th Cyberspace Wing, 24th Air Force, where it is tasked by U.S. Cyber Command to deliver combat power and fires in support of combatant commander and joint warfighter objectives.
“Our people are what make our mission possible and it is an honor and a privilege to serve with them,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Robinson, 91st COS commander. “We stand on the shoulders of giants who served before us and we strive to continue the legacy of warfighting excellence our organization is known for.”
The week of activities kicked off with a cake cutting ceremony Aug. 21 marking the unit’s official anniversary.
Squadron members also laid a wreath on the grave site of the squadron's founder, Col. John Reynolds, at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Members of Reynolds’ family, including his grandson, great grandson and great-great grandson, were in attendance.
The 91st COS opened its doors for an open house Aug. 25 where alumni and families were afforded a rare glimpse into daily life for the squadron. A formal military dinner planned to culminate the week was postponed due to inclement weather.
The U.S. Air Force turns 70 years old Sept. 18, 2017.