About this Unit
The 157th Combat Support Squadron (157th Comb Sup Sq) is a unit of the New Hampshire Air National Guard (NHANG), stationed at Pease Air Force Base (now Pease Air National Guard Base) in Newington, New Hampshire. Established to provide essential support functions, the squadron has played a vital role in ensuring the operational effectiveness of the 157th Air Refueling Wing and its predecessor units. Over the years, the 157th Combat Support Squadron has contributed to both stateside and overseas missions, supporting Air Force operations during contingencies and national emergencies. Its personnel are trained to deliver a wide range of support services, including logistics, security, and base operations, upholding the readiness and mission capability of the New Hampshire Air Guard.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 157th Combat Support Squadron traces its heritage back to the 311th Fighter Squadron, activated in 1942 for service in World War II, before evolving through various designations to its modern role at Pease Air National Guard Base.
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Strategic Location: Based at Pease Air National Guard Base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the squadron supports a critical refueling and logistics hub for the northeastern United States and transatlantic military operations.
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Part of the 157th Air Refueling Wing: The squadron provides essential support functions—including logistics, civil engineering, and base services—to the 157th Air Refueling Wing, which operates the KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling aircraft.
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Missions in Operation Desert Storm: Members of the 157th Combat Support Squadron deployed during Operation Desert Storm in 1990–1991, supporting U.S. and coalition aircraft in the Middle East.
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9/11 Response: Following the September 11 attacks, the squadron played a vital role in supporting homeland defense operations, enabling increased aerial patrols and refueling missions over the northeastern U.S.
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Humanitarian Deployments: The squadron has supported humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts across the U.S. and the Caribbean, such as providing aid after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
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Transition to KC-46A: In 2019, the 157th Air Refueling Wing became the first Air National Guard unit to receive the new KC-46A Pegasus. The Combat Support Squadron played a key role in preparing infrastructure and support systems for the new aircraft.
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Air Expeditionary Deployments: Members have deployed to Europe, the Middle East, and other regions as part of Air Expeditionary Force rotations, supporting both combat and peacekeeping operations.
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Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Survivor: Pease Air Force Base was closed as an active duty installation in 1991, but the Air National Guard presence, including the 157th Combat Support Squadron, remained and expanded.
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Community Engagement: The squadron and its parent wing are known for robust community involvement, including educational outreach, support to local veterans, and participation in New Hampshire state emergency responses.
