31st AES

• Origins: The 31st Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (31st AES) was originally activated in 1951 at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, to provide air evacuation support during the Korean War. • Korean War Service: The unit played a crucial role in evacuating wounded personnel from Korea to Japan and other medical facilities, saving countless lives. • Vietnam War Deployments: The 31st AES was heavily involved in aeromedical evacuation missions during the Vietnam War, transporting thousands of casualties to higher-level care. • Aircraft Utilized: Over its history, the squadron operated several aircraft types for medical evacuation, including the C-47 Skytrain, C-54 Skymaster, and C-130 Hercules. • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat operations, 31st AES has participated in humanitarian relief efforts, providing care and evacuation during natural disasters and emergencies. • Innovations: The squadron was instrumental in developing in-flight medical protocols and advancing the use of airborne critical care, setting standards used worldwide. • Gulf War Support: During Operation Desert Storm, the 31st AES was mobilized to support medical airlift operations, ensuring rapid evacuation of wounded coalition forces. • Distinguished Recognition: Members of the 31st AES have received numerous awards and commendations for bravery, professionalism, and lifesaving actions in combat and peacetime. • Modernization: The squadron has continued to evolve, incorporating advanced medical equipment and training to meet the demands of modern warfare and contingency operations. • Legacy: The 31st AES’s legacy lives on in today’s Air Force aeromedical evacuation units, with its traditions and standards forming the backbone of current medical airlift operations.