About this Unit
The 70th Aerial Port Squadron is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, first constituted and activated in 1966. Stationed at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia, the squadron has played a vital role in providing air transportation support, including the movement of cargo, passengers, and mail for both peacetime and contingency operations. Over the decades, the 70th APS has supported numerous missions worldwide, including Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. The unit continues to maintain readiness to deploy rapidly, ensuring efficient and effective aerial port operations in support of U.S. military and humanitarian efforts.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment: The 70th Aerial Port Squadron (70 APS) was first constituted and activated in the United States Air Force Reserve, playing a pivotal role in air cargo and passenger movement operations.
•
Location: The squadron is based at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida, providing aerial port capabilities to support air mobility operations.
•
Cargo Handling Expertise: Members of the 70th APS are experts in loading, unloading, and securing all types of cargo and vehicles onto various aircraft, including C-17 Globemaster III, C-130 Hercules, and C-5 Galaxy.
•
Humanitarian Missions: The 70th APS has supported numerous humanitarian aid missions, including disaster relief efforts after hurricanes and earthquakes in the Caribbean and Central America.
•
Support to Operations: The squadron has provided vital air transportation support for Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and other contingency operations overseas.
•
Port Dawg Tradition: The squadron is part of the “Port Dawgs” community—a term affectionately used for aerial porters, known for their camaraderie and esprit de corps.
•
Aerial Port Rodeos: The 70th APS often competes in Air Force and Air Mobility Command “Rodeos”—competitive events showcasing aerial port skills like pallet buildup, vehicle loading, and timed loading/offloading.
•
Diversity of Roles: Squadron personnel include air transportation specialists, load planners, riggers, and passenger service agents, demonstrating a wide range of logistical and technical skills.
•
Civic Engagement: The unit is involved in local community outreach and veteran support activities, fostering strong ties with the Florida community.
•
Decorations and Recognition: The 70th APS and its members have earned numerous awards and commendations for outstanding service, mission success, and dedication to the Air Force Reserve’s global mobility mission.
