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443 MAC

U.S. Air Force•22 members

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About this Unit

443 MAC

U.S. Air Force

The 443rd Military Airlift Command (MAC) was a unit of the United States Air Force, primarily based at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma. Established during the Cold War era, the 443rd MAC played a pivotal role in training aircrews for strategic and tactical airlift missions, operating aircraft such as the C-141 Starlifter and C-5 Galaxy. The unit was responsible for preparing crews for worldwide air mobility operations, supporting both peacetime and contingency missions. In 1992, following Air Force restructuring, the 443rd MAC was inactivated and its mission was absorbed by the 97th Air Mobility Wing.

About 443 MAC

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 443rd Military Airlift Command (MAC) traces its roots to World War II, initially constituted as the 443rd Troop Carrier Group in 1943.
World War II Service: The unit participated in major campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including the liberation of the Philippines and the airborne assault on Corregidor.
Aircraft Operated: Over the years, the 443 MAC operated various aircraft such as the C-47 Skytrain, C-46 Commando, and later the C-141 Starlifter for airlift missions.
Role in Vietnam: During the Vietnam War, the 443rd was instrumental in providing cargo and personnel airlift support throughout Southeast Asia.
Training Mission: In its later years, the unit became a key training wing for airlift crews, particularly at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
Humanitarian Missions: The 443 MAC took part in numerous humanitarian missions, delivering aid and relief supplies in times of natural disaster and crisis.
Inactivation and Legacy: The unit was inactivated in 1992, but its heritage continues in the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus AFB.
Distinctive Emblem: The 443rd's emblem featured a winged globe, symbolizing its global airlift missions and rapid response capabilities.
Decorations: The unit earned several commendations, including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.
Notable Fact: The 443rd was among the first units to train crews for the then-new C-5 Galaxy, highlighting its role at the forefront of USAF airlift capability.

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443 MAC

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About this Unit

443 MAC

U.S. Air Force

Unit members

Anthony Carter

U.S. Air Force · 1973 - 1975

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Mitchell Williams

U.S. Air Force · 1986 - 1987

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Becky Franklin

Family & Friends Spouse · 1985 - 1988

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Gerald Merryman

U.S. Air Force · 1969 - 1972

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About 443 MAC

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins: The 443rd Military Airlift Command (MAC) traces its roots to World War II, initially constituted as the 443rd Troop Carrier Group in 1943.
World War II Service: The unit participated in major campaigns in the Pacific Theater, including the liberation of the Philippines and the airborne assault on Corregidor.
Aircraft Operated: Over the years, the 443 MAC operated various aircraft such as the C-47 Skytrain, C-46 Commando, and later the C-141 Starlifter for airlift missions.
Role in Vietnam: During the Vietnam War, the 443rd was instrumental in providing cargo and personnel airlift support throughout Southeast Asia.
Training Mission: In its later years, the unit became a key training wing for airlift crews, particularly at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
Humanitarian Missions: The 443 MAC took part in numerous humanitarian missions, delivering aid and relief supplies in times of natural disaster and crisis.
Inactivation and Legacy: The unit was inactivated in 1992, but its heritage continues in the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus AFB.
Distinctive Emblem: The 443rd's emblem featured a winged globe, symbolizing its global airlift missions and rapid response capabilities.
Decorations: The unit earned several commendations, including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation and multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.
Notable Fact: The 443rd was among the first units to train crews for the then-new C-5 Galaxy, highlighting its role at the forefront of USAF airlift capability.