About this Unit
The 1700th Air Transport Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in the early 1950s as part of the Military Air Transport Service (MATS). Stationed initially at Kelly Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron operated large transport aircraft such as the C-54 Skymaster and later the C-124 Globemaster II, supporting global airlift operations during the early Cold War. The unit played a vital role in transporting personnel, cargo, and medical evacuation missions, contributing to military readiness and logistical support across various theaters. The 1700th Air Transport Squadron was inactivated in 1957 as part of a broader reorganization of Air Force airlift units.
Historical Facts
• Establishment and Activation: The 1700th Air Transport Squadron was established in the early 1950s as part of the United States Air Force's Military Air Transport Service (MATS), reflecting the growing need for strategic airlift during the Cold War.
• Location: The squadron was based at Kelly Air Force Base, Texas, a major logistics and maintenance hub for the USAF during the mid-20th century.
• Aircraft Operated: The 1700th Air Transport Squadron primarily operated the Douglas C-54 Skymaster and later the C-124 Globemaster II, both legendary airlifters of the era.
• Mission Focus: The unit was tasked with airlifting cargo, personnel, and equipment across the United States and overseas, supporting both peacetime operations and contingency missions.
• Role in Korean War: Although not directly deployed in combat, the 1700th supported the Korean War effort by transporting critical supplies and evacuating wounded personnel.
• Support for Scientific Missions: The squadron took part in resupply missions to remote locations, including supporting scientific stations in the Arctic and Antarctic regions during the 1950s.
• Notable Missions: The 1700th participated in "Operation Blue Jay," delivering materials for the construction of Thule Air Base in Greenland, a key strategic outpost during the Cold War.
• Distinguished Personnel: Several airmen assigned to the 1700th were recognized with commendations for exemplary service in hazardous conditions, including ice landings and emergency relief flights.
• Transition and Inactivation: In the late 1950s, as part of a broader Air Force reorganization, the 1700th Air Transport Squadron was inactivated, with its personnel and assets reassigned to other units.
• Legacy: While the squadron itself was relatively short-lived, it played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for modern USAF air mobility and logistics operations, influencing the doctrine of today’s Air Mobility Command.
