1st Aerospace Communications Group

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 1st Aerospace Communications Group

The 1st Aerospace Communications Group was a United States Air Force unit activated in the 1960s to provide specialized communications support for space and missile operations. Stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, the group played a pivotal role in ensuring secure and reliable communications for early warning, command and control, and satellite tracking missions during the Cold War. It supported a variety of national defense initiatives, including the safeguarding of aerospace assets and facilitating rapid decision-making. The unit was eventually inactivated as technological advancements and restructuring led to the consolidation of its functions into other organizations.

Unit Members

Martin Collett

U.S. Air Force (1967-1987)

1st Aerospace Communications GroupView Profile

Ricky Meadows

U.S. Air Force

1st Aerospace Communications GroupView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 1st Aerospace Communications Group

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 1st Aerospace Communications Group (1st ACG) was originally constituted as the 1st Aerospace Communications Group in 1962, supporting the United States Air Force’s burgeoning space and missile operations during the Cold War. • Missile Warning Mission: The unit played a crucial role in missile warning communications, serving as a vital link between missile warning sensors and command authorities. • Cheyenne Mountain Operations: Elements of the 1st ACG were assigned to Cheyenne Mountain Complex, ensuring real-time data from missile warning systems reached NORAD and other command centers. • Early Warning Systems: The group managed critical communications for the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System (BMEWS) and the Defense Support Program (DSP) satellites. • Technological Innovations: The 1st ACG was at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge satellite communications technology, supporting both terrestrial and space-based networks. • Vietnam War Support: The group provided communications support for air operations during the Vietnam War, ensuring rapid and reliable transmission of mission-critical data. • Global Footprint: At its peak, the 1st ACG operated and maintained communications sites worldwide, from Alaska to the United Kingdom, supporting U.S. and allied space operations. • Unit Awards: The group and its squadrons received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exemplary performance during periods of heightened Cold War tensions. • Redesignations: Over its history, the unit underwent several redesignations, reflecting evolving missions, such as becoming the 1st Aerospace Communications Wing in 1984 before its eventual inactivation. • Legacy: Although inactivated in 1991, the 1st Aerospace Communications Group’s legacy continues through successor units supporting space and missile communications in today’s U.S. Space Force.