USAF
488,500 members•3,725 units
Opening branch overview
Building the branch home surface
Loading branch highlights, featured unit context, and gallery moments.
Overview
Members
Units
Over 3,064,780 active members
488,500 members•3,725 units
Building the branch home surface
Loading branch highlights, featured unit context, and gallery moments.
Building the branch members surface
Loading branch members, era browse tools, and directory controls.
AFGWC
U.S. Air Force
The Air Force Global Weather Central (AFGWC) was established in 1958 at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, as the central hub for U.S. Air Force meteorological analysis and forecasting. Tasked with providing global weather data and support to Air Force operations, AFGWC employed advanced computer technology for processing and disseminating weather information worldwide. During the Cold War, its forecasts were crucial for strategic planning, missile operations, and flight safety. In 1997, AFGWC’s mission and assets were integrated into the newly formed Air Force Weather Agency, continuing its legacy of critical weather support to military operations.
AFSOUTH
U.S. Air Force
AFSOUTH, or Allied Forces Southern Europe, was a major NATO military command established in 1951 with its headquarters in Naples, Italy. Its primary mission was to coordinate the defense of southern Europe, overseeing land, air, and naval forces in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the Mediterranean region during the Cold War. AFSOUTH played a key role in deterring Soviet aggression and fostering cooperation among southern European NATO members. In 2004, following a NATO command restructuring, AFSOUTH was replaced by Joint Force Command Naples, continuing its legacy of collective defense and crisis management.
Air Defense Command Luke AFB
U.S. Air Force
The Air Defense Command at Luke Air Force Base (AFB), Arizona, was an integral part of the United States’ air defense network during the Cold War. Established in the early 1950s, the command's primary mission was to train fighter-interceptor crews and provide air defense for the southwestern United States. Over the years, Luke AFB hosted several Air Defense Command units equipped with aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre and F-104 Starfighter. As the threat of Soviet bombers diminished and air defense priorities shifted, the Air Defense Command presence at Luke was eventually phased out, with the base transitioning to a primary training center for Tactical Air Command and later Air Education and Training Command.
Basic
U.S. Air Force
**Basic** is not a specific military unit but refers broadly to the initial entry-level training for recruits in armed forces worldwide, commonly known as "Basic Training" or "Boot Camp." This essential phase was formalized in many countries during the 20th century, especially as conscription and large-scale mobilizations became prevalent in both World Wars. Basic Training is designed to transform civilians into soldiers by instilling discipline, teaching fundamental military skills, and building physical endurance. Over time, the curriculum has evolved to include not only combat skills but also values, teamwork, and modern battlefield awareness, forming the backbone of a professional military force.
Corpus Christi, Tx. Group
U.S. Air Force
The Corpus Christi, TX Group traces its origins to the establishment of military aviation operations in the coastal city during World War II, when the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi was commissioned in 1941. The unit played a pivotal role in training naval aviators, producing thousands of pilots who served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters. Over the decades, the group has supported a variety of missions, including pilot training, logistical support, and coastal defense operations. Today, the Corpus Christi, TX Group continues its legacy by providing vital support to U.S. military aviation and joint operations in the region.
First Radio Relay
U.S. Air Force
The First Radio Relay, originally activated during the early years of the Cold War, played a vital role in establishing and maintaining secure long-range communications for U.S. military operations. Tasked with deploying and operating radio relay equipment, the unit enabled rapid transmission of command and control messages across challenging terrains. Throughout its service, the First Radio Relay supported both peacetime readiness and critical missions during periods of heightened alert, including joint exercises with allied forces. Its legacy continues in the modern military’s emphasis on robust, mobile communication capabilities.
Helicopter Squadron 262
U.S. Air Force
Helicopter Squadron 262, known as "The Flying Tigers," is a distinguished United States Marine Corps aviation unit established in 1951. The squadron has operated various helicopters over the decades, including the UH-34, CH-46 Sea Knight, and currently the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor. Throughout its history, HMM-262 has played vital roles in combat and humanitarian missions, notably serving in the Vietnam War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and disaster relief operations across the Asia-Pacific region. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, the squadron continues to provide rapid air mobility and assault support for III Marine Expeditionary Force.
Hq 6910th Security Wing ( USAFSS )
U.S. Air Force
The 6910th Security Wing (USAFSS) was activated in 1974 as part of the United States Air Force Security Service (USAFSS), a command specializing in signals intelligence (SIGINT) and electronic security during the Cold War. Headquartered at Augsburg, West Germany, the 6910th managed several subordinate units, directing operations focused on intercepting and analyzing Warsaw Pact communications and electronic emissions. The wing played a crucial role in providing real-time intelligence to both USAF and NATO commands, significantly enhancing situational awareness and threat assessment in Europe. The unit remained active until 1978, when it was inactivated as part of a broader reorganization of Air Force intelligence assets.
Hq 70th Bomb Wing (H) (SAC)
U.S. Air Force
The Headquarters, 70th Bomb Wing (Heavy), was activated as part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the early years of the Cold War. Established in 1951 at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, the wing was responsible for managing and supporting heavy bomber operations, primarily flying the Boeing B-47 Stratojet. The 70th Bomb Wing played a crucial role in SAC’s nuclear deterrence mission, maintaining a state of readiness during periods of heightened international tension. The wing was inactivated in 1962 as part of the Air Force’s broader reorganization and modernization 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)