Leadership from the 352d Special Operations Wing recently gathered alongside international allies to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of Operation Thursday, one of the most daring, unorthodox, and pivotal joint military campaigns of World War II, during the Chindit and Burma Star Memorial Day event Aug. 15, 2026.
Veterans from both the United States and United Kingdom marked the anniversary at the National Memorial Arboretum with both the 352d Special Operations Wing commander, Col. Shane Muscato, and command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Vanessa Leon, laying wreaths in memory of the fallen, ensuring that the legacy of those special operations members will never be forgotten.
“The Chindit Memorial holds special importance for us due to the historical ties between the mission of the British Chindits and the role of American Air Commandos in World War II,” said Muscato. “It highlights our unique SOF heritage and the direct tie to today’s changing character of war and what we can learn and apply from the past to today’s missions.”
The event, which included a flyover by a 352d SOW MC-130J Commando II, highlights the continued partnership and enduring bond between the United States and the United Kingdom.
“As a student and lover of history, having the opportunity to attend this event fills me with a profound sense of pride and respect,” said Muscato. “It’s an opportunity to honor the extraordinary bravery and sacrifices of the Chindits and Air Commandos of yesterday, who undertook remarkable long-range operations behind enemy lines during World War II.”
The event commemorates the 81st anniversary of Victory over Japan, and the 82nd anniversary of Operation Thursday, conducted by the Chindits behind Japanese lines in Northern Burma, when they were flown in and then supported from the air by the United State Army Air Force’s 1st Air Commando Group (predecessors of the 352 SOW).
“The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, resourcefulness, and commitment made by these great warriors,” said Muscato.