79th Fighter Group

86th Fighter Squadron

Fred Borsodi first proposed the Comanche name for the squadron when it was based at LG-174 in Egypt. The Comanche Indian tribe was constantly at war during early American pioneer days, recognized no superior, and were victorious in every battle.

 The cartoon character has his one arm outstretched over the clouds, and with his beckoning finger, challenges all comers.  The satisfied smirk on his face signifies the pleasure he had disposing of his last victim, as blood can be seen dripping from his tomahawk.  The battle headdress of red, white, and blue feathers is waving defiantly in the breeze.

The insignia was designed by Sergeants Charles A. Farquhar and Everly J. McGrath. From The 79thFighter Group over Tunisia, Sicily and Italy in World War II by Don Woerpel.

From The 79th Fighter Group over Tunisia, Sicily and Italy in World War II by Don Woerpel.

Commanding Officers

Name and Rank

Date

Captain W. R. Compton 9 May 1942
Captain L. C. Lydon 30 June1942
Captain Jack C. West August 1942
Captain Tarleton Watkins September 1942
Major Fredric A. Borsodi 20 June 1943
Lt. Col. Melvin J. Nielsen 16 October 1943
Major George E. Ewing, Jr. 8 May 1944
Major E. J. Byron 14 August 1944
Major Frederick J. Zilly 16 October 1944
Major Alfred Fetters 30 April 1945

*Information from The Falcon and The 79th Fighter Group over Tunisia, Sicily and Italy in World War II