About this Unit
The 30th Military Airlift Squadron (30th MAS) was an airlift unit of the United States Air Force, activated during the Cold War era. Initially constituted as the 30th Air Transport Squadron in 1952, it operated primarily out of various bases in the United States and Europe, providing strategic airlift capabilities. The unit flew aircraft such as the C-124 Globemaster II, supporting troop movements, cargo delivery, and humanitarian missions worldwide. The 30th MAS played a significant role in reinforcing U.S. and NATO commitments before being inactivated in the late 1960s as the Air Force reorganized its airlift structure.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 30th Military Airlift Squadron (30th MAS) was first constituted in 1942 as part of the US Army Air Forces, originally activated as the 30th Transport Squadron.
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World War II Service: During World War II, the squadron participated in critical airlift operations in the China-Burma-India Theater, notably supporting “The Hump” airlift over the Himalayas.
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Berlin Airlift: The unit was reactivated post-war and played a support role during the Berlin Airlift (1948–1949), helping sustain the city during the Soviet blockade.
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C-124 Globemaster II: In the 1950s and 1960s, the 30th MAS operated the C-124 Globemaster II, a heavy-lift aircraft affectionately nicknamed “Old Shaky.”
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Vietnam War Contributions: The squadron was instrumental in airlifting personnel, supplies, and equipment to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, often flying into hazardous zones.
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Strategic Airlift Role: The 30th MAS became part of the Military Airlift Command (MAC), reflecting its importance in global strategic mobility and rapid deployment missions.
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Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the unit operated a variety of aircraft, including the C-47 Skytrain, C-54 Skymaster, C-124 Globemaster II, and later, the C-5 Galaxy.
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Humanitarian Missions: The 30th MAS frequently conducted humanitarian missions, such as delivering relief supplies after natural disasters and aiding in Operation Babylift in 1975.
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Inactivation and Legacy: The squadron was inactivated in 1993 as part of post-Cold War restructuring, but its legacy continues in successor airlift units.
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Emblem and Motto: The 30th MAS proudly displayed its unique squadron emblem, symbolizing its global mission, and was known for the unofficial motto, “Anywhere, Anytime.”
