10/2/2009 - Col. Michael Stapleton, 49th Operations Group commander, passes a guidon to Lt. Col. Craig Baker, as he assumes command of the 8th FS in a ceremony here Sept. 25. The 8th FS, known historically as "The Black Sheep," will resume operations after a brief period of inactivity associated with the F-117A Nighthawk retirement. The squadron will be the second F-22A Raptor squadron, along with the 7th Fighter Squadron, to be assigned to the 49th Fighter Wing here. Both squadrons are to receive 20 F-22s and aircraft will be identifiable by their tail flash of either the "Black Sheep" or "Screamin' Demons." (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Tiffany Trojca)

10/2/2009 - Lt. Col. Craig Baker, 8th Fighter Squadron commander, salutes Col. Michael Stapleton, 49th Operations Group commander, after assuming the command of the 8th FS in a ceremony here Sept. 25. The 8th FS has a rich history beginning with its activation 1941. It was one of the original fighter squadrons assigned to the 49th Pursuit Group. Shortly thereafter, while performing its combat role in World War II, it acquired the title "The Black Sheep," a nickname widely used today. Previously, the 8 FS flew such diverse aircraft as the F-15, F-4, F-80, P-51 and P-38. Capt. John Fischer, one of the first pilots to be assigned to the reactivated 8th FS, said he is "excited to carry on the history and traditions of the 8th FS." (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Tiffany Trojca)