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345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

18 members•1 unit

345th Tactical Airlift Squadron Homepage Photos Members

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U.S. Air Force

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About 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II. It was first established as the 345th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1949, operating primarily C-47 and later C-130 Hercules aircraft. The squadron played a key role in airlift operations during the Cold War, including support missions in Europe and Southeast Asia. The 345th was inactivated in the late 1970s as part of a broader Air Force restructuring, but its legacy endures as a testament to tactical airlift excellence.

About 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

About this Unit

Historical Facts

World War II Origins: The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron traces its roots to World War II, originally activated as the 345th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942.
Combat Service in Europe: During World War II, the squadron played a vital role in airborne operations, including the D-Day invasion and the air assault across the Rhine River.
Aircraft Flown: Over its service, the squadron operated a variety of aircraft, including the C-47 Skytrain, C-119 Flying Boxcar, C-123 Provider, and the C-130 Hercules.
Berlin Airlift Participation: Members of the 345th participated in the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), delivering vital supplies to the blockaded city during the early Cold War.
Korean War Service: The squadron was reactivated for the Korean War, providing crucial airlift support for UN forces, often under hazardous conditions.
Vietnam War Missions: The 345th was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, performing tactical airlift missions, including resupply, troop movement, and medevac.
Distinguished Unit Citations: The squadron received several commendations and awards for its bravery and effectiveness in combat.
Humanitarian Operations: In addition to combat missions, the 345th provided disaster relief and humanitarian aid, including flood relief operations in the United States.
Pioneering Airlift Tactics: The 345th helped develop and refine airlift tactics, including low-level drops and night operations, which became standard in military airlift doctrine.
Legacy and Deactivation: The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron was finally inactivated in 1972, but its legacy lives on through the units and airlift tactics it helped shape.

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345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

18 members•1 unit

345th Tactical Airlift Squadron Homepage Photos Members

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron?

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Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron.

Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

Photos

341st Force Support Squadron Command Photo 2014

U.S. Air Force • 2014

Air Force Wounded Warrior Event

U.S. Air Force

st.Pattys day

1370th Photo Mapping Wing • U.S. Air Force • 2021

1971 Kaiser 6x6 with our tank at the VFW

375 SVS • U.S. Air Force • 2026

About 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron

About this Unit

Historical Facts

World War II Origins: The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron traces its roots to World War II, originally activated as the 345th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942.
Combat Service in Europe: During World War II, the squadron played a vital role in airborne operations, including the D-Day invasion and the air assault across the Rhine River.
Aircraft Flown: Over its service, the squadron operated a variety of aircraft, including the C-47 Skytrain, C-119 Flying Boxcar, C-123 Provider, and the C-130 Hercules.
Berlin Airlift Participation: Members of the 345th participated in the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), delivering vital supplies to the blockaded city during the early Cold War.
Korean War Service: The squadron was reactivated for the Korean War, providing crucial airlift support for UN forces, often under hazardous conditions.
Vietnam War Missions: The 345th was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, performing tactical airlift missions, including resupply, troop movement, and medevac.
Distinguished Unit Citations: The squadron received several commendations and awards for its bravery and effectiveness in combat.
Humanitarian Operations: In addition to combat missions, the 345th provided disaster relief and humanitarian aid, including flood relief operations in the United States.
Pioneering Airlift Tactics: The 345th helped develop and refine airlift tactics, including low-level drops and night operations, which became standard in military airlift doctrine.
Legacy and Deactivation: The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron was finally inactivated in 1972, but its legacy lives on through the units and airlift tactics it helped shape.