144th Airlift Squadron

• Origins in World War II: The 144th Airlift Squadron traces its lineage to the 404th Fighter Squadron, activated in 1943, which flew P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater during World War II. • Alaska Air National Guard: The unit is part of the Alaska Air National Guard, based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. • Cold War Air Defense: After WWII, the squadron was redesignated as the 144th Fighter-Bomber Squadron and assigned an air defense mission for Alaska during the early years of the Cold War. • Transition to Airlift Mission: In 1969, the unit shifted from fighter aircraft to airlift with the acquisition of C-123 Provider aircraft, marking a significant mission change. • C-130 Hercules Era: In 1976, the squadron received the C-130 Hercules, a versatile tactical airlifter, which became its primary aircraft for decades. • Operation Deep Freeze Support: The 144th has supported Operation Deep Freeze, providing crucial airlift to Antarctica for scientific research missions. • Disaster Relief Missions: The squadron has participated in numerous disaster relief operations, including the response to the 1964 Alaska earthquake and Hurricane Katrina in 2005. • Overseas Deployments: Members of the 144th have deployed for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, providing vital airlift support in combat zones. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The squadron has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exceptional service and performance. • Modernization: The 144th continues to modernize, operating the C-17 Globemaster III since 2017, significantly expanding its global reach and strategic airlift capability.