The 63rd is the 56th VFW's second oldest squadron. As the 310th roster grew ever larger, the need for another Squadron became obvious. The 63rd was formed and activated in the fall of 2000. Panic was chosen as, and accepted, the position of Commanding Officer, and selected then Lt. Tank, as his XO. Early in 2001 the 56th decided to make a move from their virtual home of Luke AFB Arizona, to the 27th VFW at Cannon AFB New Mexico. The 63rd was re-designated as the 523rd Crusaders and expanded from a roster of 3 to 7 pilots in just a few short months. The 27th VFW’s membership continued to explode dramatically. As a result another new squadron was activated in the fall of 2001. Tank was selected as Commander of the newly formed 524th Hounds of Heaven and chose Buzz as his XO. Thumpper was picked by Panic to take over the XO position for the 523rd. Just weeks later it was decided that a move back to the 56th would be advantageous for the Wing. This was due to the large number of squadrons and room for growth at Luke. The 27th became the 56th and the 523rd was re-designated the 63rd Panthers in the Fall of 2001.

Panic was selected for and started USAF pilot training in the Fall of 2003. As a result of his real world commitments, Panic put himself in in-active status and Thumpper took command of the Panthers on December 31st 2003. Shuka was picked to take over the XO spot in December of 2004. The 63rd has the distinction of producing several Commanders for the 56th. Panic, Tank, Buzz, Thumpper, Air Bear & General all served or started out as Panthers.

Historically the Panthers are known for their mixed Air to Ground and Air to Air capability. The Squadron takes great pride in their ability to strike and decimate difficult ground targets consistently and precisely, while simultaneously neutralizing any and all air threats. 63rd pilots are known for their command and understanding of their aircraft and its systems, as well as those of the enemies they face and for the tactics and intense training they employ and practice.

This precedent was set forth and fostered early on by Panic, Tank and Thumpper. Their vision and leadership has stood the Panthers in good stead to this day. Panthers (and ex-Panthers) are widely regarded and respected for their teamwork, training, knowledge, tactics, and expertise. The 63rd has a “rough around the edges” feel. At times the almost nonchalant zeal with which they attack might be confused for reckless abandon. Make no mistake, this squad is tight and attacks in a well orchestrated, and well executed, flurry of intensely overwhelming force.

The 63rd uses SP4 BMS 2 as their patch of choice and Team Speak as their primary comms with RW as the back up.