"This squadron is more complex than its name might indicate but examination of the duty roster reveals a great variety of initiated and developed abilities. On 8 January, 1942 it was activated as the 97th. Headquarters and Air Base Squadron at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. In July of that year it was redesignated and the Service Group which it now heads was formed.

� � "Designed primarily to operate and maintain an entire station, it contained all of the components necessary for the efficent function of an operational base. The staff contained, in addition to Air Force personnel, various Arms of Service including Chemical, Finance, Medical, Ordnance and Quartermaster cadres. Each of these sections were established and personnel trained to operate efficently under variable conditions. Upon arrival in this theater during August, 1943 it became necessary to split these sections and since the division the entire unit has been functioning on half of the designed strength.

� � "The versatility of the Officers and Men cannot be over emphasized. In addition to the regular housekeeping duties of administration and supply, Officers and Men are assigned to Station Headquarters and the S-1, S-2, S-3 and S-4 sections. Station Utilities, Chemical Warfare, Finance, Transportation, Medical and Photo Labratories all engage a heavy toll on the squadron specialists."

--From King's Cliffe