15th SOS AFSOC

• Heritage: The 15th Special Operations Squadron (15th SOS) traces its lineage to the 15th Combat Cargo Squadron, activated during World War II in 1944. • World War II Service: During WWII, the squadron operated in the China-Burma-India Theater, flying supplies over the Himalayas (“The Hump”) to support Allied forces in China. • Vietnam War Operations: Reactivated as the 15th Air Commando Squadron in 1967, the unit flew C-130s in psychological operations, resupply, and evacuation missions during the Vietnam War. • Aircraft: The 15th SOS is known primarily for flying the Lockheed MC-130H Combat Talon II, a specialized variant of the C-130 Hercules for infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply of special operations forces. • Award-Winning: The squadron has earned numerous decorations, including Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards with Combat “V” Device for valor, and the Presidential Unit Citation. • Operation Eagle Claw: Elements of the squadron participated in the 1980 attempted rescue of American hostages in Iran, highlighting the risks and complexity of special operations missions. • Global Reach: The 15th SOS has conducted missions worldwide, including in Panama (Operation Just Cause), the Balkans, the Middle East, and Africa, often under challenging and hazardous conditions. • AFSOC Contribution: As part of Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), the squadron supports unconventional warfare, direct action, and humanitarian missions, often working with Navy SEALs, Army Special Forces, and other elite units. • Squadron Motto: The 15th SOS’s motto is “Any Time, Any Place,” reflecting its readiness to deploy rapidly and operate in austere environments. • Modernization: In recent years, the squadron has begun transitioning to newer aircraft such as the MC-130J Commando II, enhancing its capabilities for future special operations missions.