USAF
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Over 3,064,780 active members
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AACS Air Traffic Control
U.S. Air Force
The Army Airways Communications System (AACS) Air Traffic Control traces its origins to World War II, when the U.S. Army Air Forces established the AACS in 1938 to provide reliable communications and navigation support for military aviation. During the war, AACS personnel played a vital role in establishing and operating air traffic control towers, radio navigation aids, and weather stations at bases worldwide, ensuring the safe movement of aircraft in combat and support missions. After the war, the AACS continued to evolve, eventually becoming a foundational element of the U.S. Air Force's air traffic control system upon the service's establishment in 1947. The legacy of AACS Air Traffic Control endures today in the highly trained controllers who manage military airspace, ensuring mission success and flight safety across the globe.
AFIT
U.S. Air Force
The Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), established in 1919, serves as the United States Air Force’s premier institution for advanced education, research, and professional continuing education in science, engineering, and management. Initially founded as the Air School of Application at McCook Field, Ohio, AFIT evolved through several name changes and curriculum expansions, eventually relocating to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in 1946. Throughout its history, AFIT has played a crucial role in enhancing the technical and leadership capabilities of Air Force personnel, supporting national defense through cutting-edge research and graduate education. Today, AFIT continues to provide critical expertise to the Department of the Air Force and the broader Department of Defense, adapting its programs to meet emerging technological and strategic challenges.
Atlantic Fleet Combat Camera Group, Newport, RI
U.S. Air Force
The Atlantic Fleet Combat Camera Group, based in Newport, Rhode Island, was a specialized U.S. Navy unit tasked with documenting naval operations through photography and videography. Established during the Cold War era, the group played a crucial role in capturing visual records of exercises, deployments, and real-world operations across the Atlantic theater. Its personnel frequently deployed aboard ships and to shore installations, providing essential imagery for operational analysis, intelligence, and public affairs. The group’s work contributed significantly to both historical archives and real-time mission support until its eventual deactivation as military imaging capabilities evolved.
COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP 3 (CSSG-3)
U.S. Air Force
Combat Service Support Group 3 (CSSG-3) was a logistics unit of the United States Marine Corps, headquartered at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Established to provide comprehensive combat service support, CSSG-3 enabled sustained operations for III Marine Expeditionary Force units in the Pacific region. The group was responsible for supply, maintenance, transportation, and medical support, ensuring operational readiness during training exercises and deployments. In 2006, as part of the Marine Corps' reorganization of logistics units, CSSG-3 was redesignated as Combat Logistics Regiment 3 (CLR-3), continuing its mission under the new structure.
DETACHMENT 16 AFCS
U.S. Air Force
Detachment 16, Air Force Communications Service (AFCS), was a specialized unit within the United States Air Force responsible for providing critical communications support to Air Force operations. Established during the Cold War era, the detachment played a key role in ensuring secure and reliable communications infrastructure for both peacetime and contingency missions. Stationed at various locations as operational needs evolved, Detachment 16 supported command and control functions, enabling effective coordination between units and higher headquarters. The unit’s technical expertise and adaptability contributed significantly to the success of Air Force missions until its eventual inactivation or reorganization as part of broader communications modernization efforts.
Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140)
U.S. Air Force
Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140), known as the "Patriots," was established in October 1985 and is based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. The squadron specializes in electronic warfare, initially flying the EA-6B Prowler and later transitioning to the advanced EA-18G Growler. VAQ-140 has supported numerous combat operations, including Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve, providing critical electronic attack and suppression of enemy air defenses. Renowned for its operational excellence, VAQ-140 plays a vital role in ensuring U.S. and allied air superiority through advanced electronic warfare capabilities.
Geodetic Survey Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The Geodetic Survey Squadron was a specialized unit of the United States Air Force, established in 1959 to provide precise geodetic and surveying support for military and national defense operations. Originally organized as the 1381st Geodetic Survey Squadron, the unit was tasked with conducting geodetic surveys, gravity measurements, and astronomical observations critical for accurate mapping, navigation, and targeting. The squadron played a key role in supporting the development and maintenance of the Defense Mapping Program and contributed to the accuracy of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems during the Cold War. In 1989, the unit was redesignated as the 1st Geodetic Survey Squadron before being inactivated in 1993, with its functions absorbed by other defense mapping organizations.
HQ Air Combat Command
U.S. Air Force
Headquarters Air Combat Command (HQ ACC) was established on June 1, 1992, following the merger of Tactical Air Command and Strategic Air Command, as part of a post-Cold War restructuring of the United States Air Force. ACC is responsible for organizing, training, equipping, and maintaining combat-ready forces for rapid deployment and air operations worldwide. Based at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, HQ ACC oversees fighter, bomber, reconnaissance, battle-management, and electronic-combat aircraft, as well as command and control assets. Throughout its history, the command has played a pivotal role in supporting U.S. military operations, including Operations Southern Watch, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and ongoing global contingency missions.
Maryland Air National Guard
U.S. Air Force
The Maryland Air National Guard (MDANG) was established in 1921 as the 104th Observation Squadron, making it one of the oldest units in the Air National Guard. Throughout World War II, the unit was federalized and served in a variety of reconnaissance and support roles. During the Cold War, the MDANG transitioned through several aircraft and missions, including air defense and tactical fighter operations. In the modern era, the unit, now known as the 175th Wing, has participated in numerous overseas deployments, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, while also supporting homeland defense and disaster relief efforts.
U.S. Air Force Active Duty (2026 - Present)
U.S. Air Force Military Retiree (2026 - 2026)
U.S. Air Force Veteran (2025 - Present)
U.S. Air Force Active Duty (2025 - Present)