About this Unit
The 801st Combat Support Group (CSG) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. Activated in July 1972, the 801st CSG provided critical base support functions, ensuring operational readiness and efficient support for assigned missile wings and tenant units. The group managed essential services such as security, civil engineering, supply, transportation, and personnel support. The 801st CSG was inactivated in October 1992 as part of a broader USAF reorganization, with its duties assumed by other base support elements.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 801st Combat Support Group (CSG) was originally activated in the 1950s, supporting United States Air Force (USAF) operations during the Cold War era.
• Location: The unit was most famously stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base (now Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base) near Columbus, Ohio.
• Role: The 801st CSG provided essential base support functions, including security, logistics, civil engineering, medical, and administrative services to flying units and tenant organizations.
• Strategic Air Command Ties: The 801st CSG was an integral part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), supporting the 301st Air Refueling Wing and its strategic bomber and tanker missions.
• Involvement in the Cold War: During the height of the Cold War, the 801st CSG played a critical role in maintaining readiness for potential nuclear operations, supporting alert forces and rapid response measures.
• Support of Air Refueling: The unit directly supported the KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, which were vital for mid-air refueling of USAF bombers and fighters during global operations.
• Humanitarian Missions: Members of the 801st CSG participated in humanitarian airlift operations, providing relief during domestic emergencies and international crises.
• Transition and Reorganization: The 801st CSG was inactivated and re-designated several times as USAF organizational structures evolved, eventually being absorbed into other support units as part of Air Force restructuring in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
• Decorations: The unit and its members earned numerous Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and commendations for exemplary performance during both peacetime and contingency operations.
• Legacy: Former personnel from the 801st CSG have continued to serve in various capacities throughout the Air Force and the Department of Defense, contributing to the ongoing legacy of excellence in combat support operations.
