USAF
488,439 members•3,725 units
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Over 3,064,780 active members
488,439 members•3,725 units
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AETC
U.S. Air Force
The Air Education and Training Command (AETC) is a major command of the United States Air Force, established on January 23, 1942, originally as the Army Air Forces Flying Training Command. Its primary mission has been to recruit, train, and educate Air Force personnel, shaping the force through basic, technical, and flying training programs. Over the decades, AETC has played a critical role in developing airmen, adapting to new technologies and operational requirements throughout the Cold War, post-9/11 era, and into the 21st century. Headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, AETC remains foundational to ensuring the readiness and professionalism of the U.S. Air Force.
AFOTEC
U.S. Air Force
The Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC) was established in 1974 as a direct reporting unit of the United States Air Force. Its primary mission is to conduct independent, objective, and rigorous operational testing and evaluation of new and modified Air Force systems to determine their effectiveness and suitability for combat use. Headquartered at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, AFOTEC personnel operate at numerous locations across the United States and occasionally abroad. Over the decades, AFOTEC has played a key role in ensuring that advanced technologies and weapon systems meet the demands of real-world military operations before full-scale deployment.
AFSOC
U.S. Air Force
The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is the U.S. Air Force component of United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), officially activated on May 22, 1990. Its roots trace back to World War II, with the formation of specialized Air Commando units conducting unconventional warfare and covert operations. AFSOC's mission encompasses precision strike, personnel recovery, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat support, often deploying globally in support of U.S. interests. Over the decades, AFSOC has played pivotal roles in operations such as Just Cause, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, continually adapting to evolving threats and advancing special operations capabilities.
Alaska
U.S. Air Force
**Military History of Alaska** Alaska’s military significance began with its purchase from Russia in 1867, providing the United States with a strategic northern outpost. During World War II, Alaska played a crucial role as the site of the Aleutian Islands Campaign, where U.S. forces repelled Japanese invasions, marking the only WWII battles fought on American soil. In the Cold War, Alaska’s location made it vital for early warning systems and air defense against potential Soviet attacks, leading to the establishment of major bases such as Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base. Today, Alaska remains a key military hub for Arctic operations, missile defense, and joint-force readiness for U.S. and allied forces.
Coast Guard Squadron One
U.S. Air Force
Coast Guard Squadron One was a United States Coast Guard unit established in 1965 during the Vietnam War as part of Operation Market Time. Comprised primarily of 82-foot Point-class cutters and their crews, the squadron was tasked with interdicting the flow of supplies by sea from North Vietnam to the Viet Cong in South Vietnam. Operating under the operational control of the U.S. Navy, Squadron One conducted coastal patrols, boarding, and inspection missions to disrupt enemy logistics. The unit played a significant role in maritime security operations until its withdrawal and deactivation in 1970.
Edwards AFB & Hahn AFB
U.S. Air Force
**Edwards Air Force Base (AFB):** Established in the 1930s in California, Edwards AFB became a pivotal site for flight testing and aerospace innovation. It gained worldwide recognition as the location where Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier in the Bell X-1 in 1947. Over the decades, Edwards has supported the testing and development of advanced aircraft like the B-2 Spirit, F-22 Raptor, and X-15 rocket plane, cementing its role as the U.S. Air Force’s premier flight test center. **Hahn Air Force Base (AFB):** Located in West Germany, Hahn AFB was activated by the U.S. Air Force in 1951 during the early years of the Cold War. It primarily hosted fighter-interceptor and later tactical fighter squadrons, notably operating F-100 Super Sabres, F-4 Phantoms, and F-16 Fighting Falcons as part of NATO’s frontline defense. Hahn played a key role in deterring Warsaw Pact aggression until its closure and return to German control in 1993 following the reduction of American forces in Europe.
HQHQSQDN MCAS New River AFFR
U.S. Air Force
**HQHQSQDN MCAS New River AFFR** (Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station New River, Airfield Facilities and Flightline Resources) serves as the central support element for MCAS New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina. The squadron was established to provide essential administrative, operational, and logistical support to the air station's tenant commands and aviation units. Throughout its history, HQHQSQDN has played a critical role in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the base, supporting both stateside operations and deployments abroad. Its responsibilities include airfield management, personnel administration, logistics, and maintaining base security, making it a vital component of Marine Corps aviation operations on the East Coast.
Korat air force base Thailand
U.S. Air Force
Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, located in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand, has played a significant role in regional military history. During the Vietnam War, it was a key United States Air Force (USAF) installation, hosting units such as the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing and serving as a base for F-105 Thunderchief and F-4 Phantom II combat operations over Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The base supported a wide range of missions, including interdiction, close air support, and air defense suppression. After the end of major U.S. operations in Southeast Asia, Korat was returned to the Royal Thai Air Force and continues to serve as an important Thai military installation today.
Lockbourne Air Force BASE, OHIO
U.S. Air Force
Lockbourne Air Force Base, located near Columbus, Ohio, was established in 1942 as a key training site for the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. The base gained historical significance as the home of the famed Tuskegee Airmen’s 332nd Fighter Group and later the 477th Bombardment Group, both pioneering African American units. During the Cold War, Lockbourne became a Strategic Air Command installation, hosting B-47 Stratojet bombers and KC-97 tankers as part of America’s nuclear deterrent. The base was renamed Rickenbacker Air Force Base in 1974, honoring Medal of Honor recipient Eddie Rickenbacker, and later transitioned to Air National Guard and civilian use.
U.S. Air Force Active Duty (2026 - Present)
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U.S. Air Force Veteran (2025 - Present)
U.S. Air Force Active Duty (2025 - Present)