USAF
488,153 members•3,725 units
Opening branch overview
Building the branch home surface
Loading branch highlights, featured unit context, and gallery moments.
Overview
Members
Units
Over 3,064,780 active members
488,153 members•3,725 units
Building the branch home surface
Loading branch highlights, featured unit context, and gallery moments.
Building the branch units surface
Loading unit filters, rankings, and the branch unit grid.
4315th Combat Crew Training Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The 4315th Combat Crew Training Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established to provide specialized training for Strategic Air Command (SAC) crews. Activated in 1963 and stationed at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron focused primarily on academic and simulator training for aircrews operating the B-52 Stratofortress and KC-135 Stratotanker. Throughout its existence, the 4315th played a critical role in ensuring the readiness and proficiency of SAC bomber and tanker crews during the height of the Cold War. The unit was inactivated in 1993 following the end of the Cold War and the resultant restructuring of the Air Force's training programs.
432nd Supply
U.S. Air Force
The 432nd Supply Squadron was originally activated during the Cold War era to provide critical logistical and material support to its parent wing and associated units. Throughout its history, the 432nd played a pivotal role in ensuring the readiness and sustainment of U.S. Air Force operations, including supporting tactical fighter and reconnaissance missions. The squadron was notably assigned to the 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, where it managed supply chains, equipment, and spare parts during deployments in Southeast Asia. Its dedication to excellence in supply management contributed significantly to mission success before eventual inactivation and consolidation during later force restructuring.
438th Avionics Maintenance
U.S. Air Force
The 438th Avionics Maintenance Squadron was an integral support unit responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft avionics systems within the U.S. Air Force. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron was assigned to the 438th Tactical Airlift Wing at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey. Its mission was to ensure the operational readiness of avionics equipment on transport aircraft such as the C-141 Starlifter, directly supporting global airlift and mobility missions. The squadron was inactivated in the 1990s following post-Cold War restructuring and advancements in avionics technology.
4392Comm Sqdn Vandenberg AFB
U.S. Air Force
The 4392d Communications Squadron was activated at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, during the height of the Cold War to provide essential communications support for the base's growing missile and space launch operations. Established as part of the Air Force’s broader effort to enhance command, control, and communications capabilities, the squadron played a pivotal role in supporting missile tests, satellite launches, and operational readiness at Vandenberg. Throughout its tenure, the 4392d Comm Sqdn managed a range of communications systems, including secure voice, data, and radio networks, ensuring reliable links between launch crews, command authorities, and external agencies. The unit was eventually redesignated or inactivated as Air Force communications functions were consolidated and modernized in subsequent decades.
4500th Support Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The 4500th Support Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in the early 1950s to provide essential logistical and administrative support at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia. Tasked with maintaining base operations, the squadron managed supply, transportation, and facility services, ensuring mission readiness for various tenant units. Throughout its existence, the 4500th Support Squadron played a crucial role in supporting Air Defense Command and Tactical Air Command activities during the Cold War. The unit was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of organizational changes in the late 1950s, reflecting the evolving needs of the Air Force.
4520th Combat Crew Training Wing
U.S. Air Force
The **4520th Combat Crew Training Wing** was an important United States Air Force unit established in the early 1960s to provide specialized training for aircrews. Activated at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, the wing focused on preparing pilots and support personnel for combat operations, particularly in tactical fighter aircraft. The 4520th played a key role in training crews for the F-100 Super Sabre and later the F-105 Thunderchief during the Vietnam War era. In 1966, the unit was redesignated as the 4520th Fighter Wing and eventually became part of the 57th Fighter Weapons Wing, continuing its legacy of advanced aircrew training at Nellis AFB.
460th FIS
U.S. Air Force
The 460th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, established during the Cold War era. Initially activated in 1942 as the 460th Fighter Squadron, it saw service in the Pacific Theater during World War II, flying combat missions primarily in the China-Burma-India region. Reactivated in the 1950s as part of Air Defense Command, the unit was tasked with continental air defense, operating aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre and later the F-102 Delta Dagger. The 460th FIS was inactivated in 1966 as air defense needs evolved and newer technologies were introduced.
469th TFS
U.S. Air Force
The 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) was originally activated during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron became known for flying fighter aircraft such as the F-105 Thunderchief and later the F-4 Phantom II. The 469th TFS played a significant combat role during the Vietnam War, conducting strike and interdiction missions from bases in Southeast Asia. After years of distinguished service, the unit was eventually inactivated in the mid-1970s as part of a broader Air Force reorganization.
46th Air Defense Missile Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The 46th Air Defense Missile Squadron was an integral unit of the United States Air Force, activated in 1959 during the height of the Cold War. Stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, the squadron operated BOMARC surface-to-air missiles, forming a critical part of the nation’s air defense network against potential Soviet bomber attacks. The unit worked in conjunction with the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system to detect and intercept airborne threats. The squadron was inactivated in 1972 as technological advancements and shifting defense priorities led to the phasing out of the BOMARC missile program.
481st TFS
U.S. Air Force
The 481st Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) was activated during World War II and later reactivated as part of the United States Air Force. During the Vietnam War, the 481st TFS operated primarily out of Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, flying the F-100 Super Sabre. The squadron was deployed to Southeast Asia, where it conducted combat missions including ground attack, close air support, and interdiction operations. The unit was eventually inactivated in the early 1970s as part of post-war drawdowns and restructuring within the Air Force.
483rd SPS
U.S. Air Force
The 483rd Security Police Squadron (SPS) was an Air Force unit primarily tasked with providing base security and law enforcement duties. Activated during the Vietnam War, the unit was stationed at Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, South Vietnam, from the late 1960s until the early 1970s. The 483rd SPS played a crucial role in defending the base against enemy attacks, conducting perimeter patrols, and ensuring the safety of personnel and resources. After the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam, the squadron was inactivated as part of the general drawdown of American forces in Southeast Asia.
49th EMS
U.S. Air Force
The 49th Equipment Maintenance Squadron (49th EMS) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The squadron was activated to provide comprehensive maintenance and support for aircraft and equipment assigned to the 49th Wing, ensuring readiness and operational capability. Over the years, 49th EMS has supported a range of aircraft, including the F-117 Nighthawk, MQ-9 Reaper, and T-38 Talon, adapting to evolving Air Force missions and technologies. The unit continues to play a critical role in sustaining airpower by conducting inspections, repairs, and modifications for both aircraft and ground support equipment.
4th Tactical Air Command
U.S. Air Force
The 4th Tactical Air Command was a unit of the United States Army Air Forces, activated during World War II. Established in 1944, it was responsible for providing tactical air support and coordination for ground forces in the European Theater of Operations. The command oversaw fighter and bomber groups, directing close air support, interdiction, and reconnaissance missions to support Allied advances. After significant contributions to the success of Allied operations in Europe, the unit was inactivated in 1945 following the end of the war.
5010 CAMS (AAC)
U.S. Air Force
The 5010th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (CAMS) was an integral unit of the Alaskan Air Command (AAC), United States Air Force. Activated in the 1950s at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, the 5010 CAMS provided comprehensive aircraft maintenance and logistical support for assigned fighter-interceptor and reconnaissance aircraft during the Cold War. The squadron played a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness in the challenging arctic environment, ensuring rapid response capability for air defense missions. The 5010 CAMS remained active through several decades before being inactivated as part of organizational restructuring and technological advancements in the late 20th century.
5010th Combat Support Group
U.S. Air Force
The 5010th Combat Support Group was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Established in the late 1940s, the group was responsible for providing base operations, maintenance, and logistical support for various flying missions and tenant units during the Cold War. Throughout its existence, the 5010th played a crucial role in supporting strategic reconnaissance and air defense activities in the Alaskan region, particularly as tensions with the Soviet Union escalated. The group was eventually inactivated and replaced by the 343d Combat Support Group in the mid-1980s as part of a broader reorganization of Air Force units in Alaska.
50th CRS
U.S. Air Force
The 50th Civil Engineer Squadron (50th CRS), historically known as the 50th Civil Engineering Readiness Squadron, is a United States Air Force unit primarily tasked with providing emergency services, engineering support, and disaster response. Activated in support of the 50th Space Wing at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado, the squadron has played a pivotal role in maintaining the base’s infrastructure and readiness for space operations. Over its history, the 50th CRS has participated in numerous exercises and real-world contingencies, ensuring operational continuity in the face of natural disasters and other emergencies. The unit’s expertise in rapid deployment, repair, and recovery operations has made it an integral component of the Air Force’s support structure for space and cyber missions.
513 avionics maintenance Mildenhall
U.S. Air Force
The 513th Avionics Maintenance Squadron was a United States Air Force unit stationed at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom, during the Cold War. The squadron was responsible for maintaining and repairing sophisticated avionics systems on KC-135 Stratotanker and RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft assigned to the base. Their expertise ensured mission readiness and supported both air refueling and intelligence-gathering operations for U.S. and NATO forces in Europe. The 513th played a critical role in sustaining operational capabilities during heightened tensions between NATO and Warsaw Pact nations.
513th TAW
U.S. Air Force
The 513th Tactical Airlift Wing (TAW) was a United States Air Force unit that traces its origins to the post-World War II era. Initially activated as a troop carrier wing, the 513th provided vital airlift support for personnel and cargo, participating in numerous training missions and operational deployments during the Cold War. The unit operated various aircraft, including the C-119 Flying Boxcar and later the C-130 Hercules, enhancing its tactical airlift capabilities. The 513th TAW was inactivated as part of broader Air Force restructuring, but its legacy endures through its contributions to rapid mobility and support of American and allied forces worldwide.
51st CES
U.S. Air Force
The 51st Civil Engineer Squadron (51st CES) is a vital unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea. Activated in its current form in 1971, the squadron is tasked with engineering, emergency management, and base infrastructure support for the 51st Fighter Wing. Over the years, the 51st CES has played a key role in sustaining base operations, supporting contingency deployments, and enhancing the installation’s readiness during numerous exercises and real-world crises on the Korean peninsula. The squadron’s expertise ensures operational resilience and mission capability for U.S. and allied forces in the region.
531st Tactical Fighter Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The 531st Tactical Fighter Squadron was an active unit of the United States Air Force, originally constituted during World War II as the 531st Fighter Squadron in 1942. It participated in the Pacific Theater, providing air support and escort missions in the Solomon Islands and New Guinea campaigns. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron was stationed in the Philippines and later South Vietnam, flying aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre in combat operations during the Vietnam War. The 531st was inactivated in 1970 as part of post-war drawdowns and restructuring.
554th Supply Squadron
U.S. Air Force
The 554th Supply Squadron was an integral logistics unit in the United States Air Force, originally activated in the mid-20th century. It provided essential supply support, managing materials, equipment, and distribution to sustain Air Force operations both stateside and overseas. Throughout its history, the squadron supported various missions, including during the Vietnam War, ensuring that vital resources reached frontline units. The 554th Supply Squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader Air Force logistics restructuring, but its legacy of efficient support and dedication remains recognized in Air Force history.
600th PHOTO SQUAD
U.S. Air Force
The 600th Photo Squadron was an Air Force photographic and reconnaissance unit active during the Vietnam War. Activated in the early 1960s, the squadron provided critical combat photography, aerial reconnaissance, and documentation of Air Force operations across Southeast Asia. Its photographers captured images from both the air and ground, supporting intelligence analysis, mission planning, and historical record-keeping. The 600th Photo Squadron's work proved invaluable in documenting the realities of the conflict and supporting U.S. military objectives throughout the region.
601st CES
U.S. Air Force
The 601st Civil Engineer Squadron (601st CES) is a vital support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily associated with the 601st Air Operations Center at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. Established to provide engineering, emergency management, and base sustainment capabilities, the squadron has played a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness and infrastructure resilience. Over the years, the 601st CES has been instrumental in supporting both stateside and deployed missions, ensuring facilities are mission-ready and rapidly responding to emergencies. Its skilled personnel contribute to the defense of North America by supporting air defense operations through expert civil engineering services.
601st CMBT SPT GP
U.S. Air Force
The **601st Combat Support Group (601st CMBT SPT GP)** was a United States Air Force unit tasked with providing critical combat support functions in Europe during the Cold War. Activated in 1976 at Sembach Air Base, West Germany, the unit supported USAFE's dispersed tactical operations by delivering essential services such as security, logistics, engineering, and communications. The 601st played a vital role in maintaining operational readiness for NATO air forces throughout its tenure. The group was inactivated in 1995 following post-Cold War drawdowns and restructuring of U.S. forces in Europe.