Forbes AFB Tactical Air Command

Forbes Air Force Base, located near Topeka, Kansas, played a significant role under the Tactical Air Command (TAC) during the Cold War. Originally activated during World War II, the base became a hub for tactical airlift and reconnaissance missions when assigned to TAC in the 1950s and 1960s. Units stationed at Forbes AFB operated aircraft such as the RB-57 Canberra and the KC-135 Stratotanker, supporting both national defense and overseas deployments. Forbes AFB remained an important component of the Tactical Air Command until its closure as an active military installation in 1973.