AF in Creech commemorates 20 years flying Predators

Creech Air Force Base / Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field

On Jan. 28, 2010, an RQ-1 Predator of 11th Reconnaissance Squadron takes off from Muniz, Puerto Rico, enroute to provide over watch during Operation Unified Response, the humanitarian response to a catastrophic earthquake in Haiti. The 11th RS celebrated the 20th anniversary of its activation at Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field now Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, on July 29, 2015 as the U.S. Air Force's first Predator remotely piloted aircraft squadron. (Courtesy Photo)

Factsheets : Creech Air Force Base

RPA prophecy fulfilled, oldest RPA squadron celebrates 20 years

On July 29, 1995, the 11th RS was activated at the then Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field, Nevada, as the Air Force's first dedicated RPA unit when it assumed operational control of the medium altitude, long endurance RQ-1 Predator aircraft.

"I am very proud of my Airmen," said Lt. Col. Leland Cowie, 11th RS commander. "Both those conducting our critical mission in garrison and those currently deployed in harm's way flying RPAs."

Since conducting the first flight of the Predator on Dec. 13, 1996, the 11th RS has seen many firsts to include: the first successful deployment of a Hellfire missile, the first lost aircraft during an engagement between an RPA and a manned aircraft while enforcing the No Fly Zone in Iraq, and the relinquishment of its direct combat support role to become the Air Force's first Predator formal training unit.