86th MAS, Travis AFB, Calif

• Origins: The 86th Military Airlift Squadron (MAS) was originally constituted as the 86th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1943, serving in World War II. • World War II Service: During WWII, the squadron flew the C-47 Skytrain, participating in major airborne operations such as D-Day (Normandy), Operation Market Garden, and the air assault across the Rhine. • Redesignation: The squadron went through several redesignations, becoming the 86th Military Airlift Squadron in the postwar era and focusing on strategic airlift roles. • Travis AFB Assignment: The 86th MAS was assigned to Travis Air Force Base, California, where it became a key component of the Military Airlift Command (MAC). • C-141 Starlifter Era: At Travis AFB, the squadron operated the Lockheed C-141 Starlifter, a revolutionary jet transport that could carry troops, cargo, and perform aeromedical evacuation. • Global Reach: The 86th MAS was known for its global missions, supporting humanitarian efforts, military deployments, and high-priority logistics operations worldwide. • Vietnam War: The squadron played a vital role in airlifting troops, equipment, and wounded personnel during the Vietnam War. • Humanitarian Missions: The 86th MAS participated in numerous humanitarian relief efforts, including disaster response missions following earthquakes and floods in various countries. • Inactivation: The 86th MAS was inactivated on 1 October 1993, as part of a post-Cold War restructuring of the Air Force and retirement of the C-141A fleet. • Legacy: Although inactivated, the 86th MAS's legacy is preserved in Air Force history for its decades of distinguished service and support to both military operations and humanitarian causes.