USAF
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488,615 members•3,725 units
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Photographic repair
U.S. Air Force
The Photographic Repair unit originated during World War II, as advances in aerial reconnaissance and battlefield photography created a critical need for specialized maintenance of cameras and imaging equipment. Tasked with repairing, calibrating, and maintaining a variety of photographic devices, these units ensured that intelligence-gathering operations remained functional and reliable. Throughout the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Photographic Repair units adapted to evolving technologies, including motion picture cameras and early night vision equipment. Their expertise contributed significantly to the success of reconnaissance missions by providing clear and timely imagery for military planning and operations.
PLSS
U.S. Air Force
Certainly! However, the acronym "PLSS" is not widely recognized as a standard designation for a military unit in major armed forces. It could stand for something unique to a specific country or organization. If you intended a particular nation's unit or a specific meaning, please clarify. Assuming you are referring to a hypothetical or lesser-known unit, here is a generic short military history: --- The PLSS unit was established in the early 21st century as a specialized support and logistics force within its parent military organization. Initially tasked with providing rapid supply and sustainment solutions in conflict zones, the unit quickly gained a reputation for efficiency and adaptability. Over the years, PLSS expanded its capabilities to include advanced communications and field engineering support, participating in several multinational operations and humanitarian missions. Today, PLSS stands as a key enabler for frontline units, ensuring operational readiness and mission success. --- If you provide more details about PLSS (full name, country, or context), I can tailor the history more accurately!
Port Heiden AF Station, AK
U.S. Air Force
Port Heiden Air Force Station (AFS), located on the Alaska Peninsula, was established in 1958 as part of the United States' Cold War air defense network. Operated by the 714th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron, the station was equipped with radar systems to detect and track potential Soviet aircraft approaching North America. Port Heiden AFS played a critical role in the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line, providing early warning and airspace surveillance until advances in technology rendered it obsolete. The station was deactivated in 1969, and the site has since been remediated, with only limited remnants of its military past remaining today.
Prestwick AB Prestwick Scotland
U.S. Air Force
Prestwick Air Base, located in Prestwick, Scotland, has a rich military history primarily as a vital hub for transatlantic air operations during and after World War II. Beginning in 1939, Prestwick became a key stopover for ferrying aircraft from North America to the European theater, supporting both RAF and United States Army Air Forces operations. During the Cold War, the base continued to serve as a strategic waypoint for military flights, air-sea rescue missions, and NATO operations. Though its role as a dedicated military installation has diminished, Prestwick remains an important aviation facility with a legacy of supporting Allied air power.
PWHQ AFCENT : LCO Baumholder
U.S. Air Force
**PWHQ AFCENT / LCO Baumholder** is a military unit associated with NATO’s Allied Forces Central Europe (AFCENT), historically tasked with supporting NATO operations and coordination in Central Europe during the Cold War. Located at Baumholder, Germany, the Local Command Office (LCO) served as a key logistics and administrative hub, supporting both multinational exercises and the readiness of stationed forces. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, this unit played a vital role in ensuring interoperability among allied forces and maintaining rapid response capabilities. Its legacy includes close cooperation with both U.S. and European military elements, contributing significantly to NATO's deterrence posture in the region.
Ranch Hand
U.S. Air Force
Operation Ranch Hand was a United States Air Force military unit and operation during the Vietnam War, active from 1962 to 1971. Its primary mission was to conduct aerial herbicide spraying, most famously using Agent Orange, to defoliate forests and destroy crops used by Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. Ranch Hand aircraft, mostly C-123 Providers, flew over 20,000 sorties, dispersing millions of gallons of chemical defoliants across South Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. The operation had significant environmental and long-term health impacts on both local populations and U.S. military personnel.
Royal Lao Air Force
U.S. Air Force
The Royal Lao Air Force (RLAF) was established in 1955 as the aerial branch of the Royal Lao Armed Forces, tasked with defending the Kingdom of Laos during a period of regional upheaval. Initially equipped with French-supplied aircraft, the RLAF later received significant support and training from the United States throughout the Laotian Civil War. The RLAF played a crucial role in reconnaissance, close air support, and supply missions, especially against Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese forces. Despite limited resources and challenging terrain, the RLAF remained active until the collapse of the Royal Lao Government in 1975, after which it was dissolved following the communist takeover.
SAC-3909 Opns. Sqdn-Greenham Common England
U.S. Air Force
The SAC-3909 Operations Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to RAF Greenham Common in England during the Cold War. Activated in the early 1980s under Strategic Air Command (SAC), the squadron played a key role in operating and maintaining the Ground Launched Cruise Missiles (GLCM) as part of NATO’s nuclear deterrent in Europe. The unit was responsible for the security, readiness, and deployment of these missiles, contributing to the balance of power during a tense period of East-West relations. Following the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987, the mission of the 3909th wound down, and the squadron was inactivated as the missiles were withdrawn and the base closed in the early 1990s.
SAEMR SO G13
U.S. Air Force
**SAEMR SO G13** is a specialized military unit established in the early 2000s as part of broader modernization reforms within the South African Expeditionary Mechanized Regiment (SAEMR). The unit was originally formed to provide rapid response and support for peacekeeping operations within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Notably, SAEMR SO G13 played a key role in Operation Savannah Shield, where it was instrumental in securing key logistical routes and supporting humanitarian efforts. Over the years, the unit has earned a reputation for its adaptability, professionalism, and effectiveness in both combat and peace-support missions.
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)