U.S. Air Force

The 83rd Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was an active unit of the United States Air Force during the Cold War era. Established in 1956, the wing was initially stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, where it operated F-86 Sabres and later transitioned to F-100 Super Sabres. The 83rd TFW played a significant role in air defense and tactical fighter missions, participating in numerous training exercises and readiness operations. The wing was inactivated in 1958, with its mission and assets transferred to other units as part of USAF organizational changes.

The 858th Air Defense Group was an Air Defense Command unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated in 1955 at Hamilton Air Force Base, California. Its primary mission was to provide air defense for the San Francisco Bay Area during the early years of the Cold War, overseeing the operation and readiness of interceptor squadrons and support elements. The group was responsible for coordinating radar surveillance and directing fighter aircraft to intercept potential airborne threats. The 858th Air Defense Group was inactivated in 1959 as part of a broader reorganization of continental air defense assets.

The 85th Aerial Port Squadron (85th APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve. Established in the mid-20th century, it has played a crucial role in providing rapid global air mobility by managing the movement of cargo and personnel through aerial ports. The squadron has supported numerous operations, including deployments for humanitarian missions and combat support in conflicts such as Operations Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. Over the years, the 85th APS has earned recognition for its expertise in air transportation and its commitment to mission readiness.

The 85th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (85th FIS) was an active United States Air Force unit from World War II through the early Cold War. Initially activated in 1942, the squadron saw combat in the Mediterranean Theater, flying the P-40 Warhawk and later the P-47 Thunderbolt. After the war, it was reactivated in the 1950s as part of the Air Defense Command, operating jet interceptors like the F-86 Sabre and F-102 Delta Dagger to defend U.S. airspace during the tense early years of the Cold War. The 85th FIS was inactivated in 1960 as part of a broader realignment of air defense forces.

The 862nd Headquarters Squadron was a support unit within the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Activated in 1943, the squadron played a key role in providing administrative and logistical support to operational combat groups in the European Theater. The unit contributed to the overall effectiveness and readiness of its assigned command by managing personnel, communications, and essential services. Following the end of hostilities, the 862nd Headquarters Squadron was inactivated as part of the widespread postwar demobilization.

The 864th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Squadron) was activated in 1955 as part of the United States Air Force's effort to strengthen continental air defense during the Cold War. Stationed at Yuma Air Force Station, Arizona, the unit was tasked with operating radar systems to detect and track potential enemy aircraft approaching North America. Throughout its service, the 864th AC&W Squadron played a crucial role in the Air Defense Command’s radar network, providing early warning and interception guidance. The squadron was inactivated in 1963 as advances in technology and changes in defense strategy led to the consolidation of air defense assets.

The 868th Tactical Missile Squadron (868 TMS) was a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished service record. Originally activated as the 868th Bombardment Squadron in 1943, it earned the nickname "Snoopers" for its pioneering use of radar-equipped B-24 Liberators in night intruder and sea-search missions in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron was redesignated as the 868th Tactical Missile Squadron, operating MGM-13 Mace cruise missiles from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, as part of the USAF's tactical nuclear deterrence in the Pacific. The unit was inactivated in 1966 as part of the phaseout of the Mace missile system.

The 86th Fighter-Bomber Wing was activated in 1948 and stationed at Landstuhl Air Base, Germany, as part of the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) during the early Cold War. The Wing's primary mission was to provide air defense and tactical fighter support for NATO forces in Western Europe, initially flying F-84 Thunderjets and later transitioning to F-86 Sabres. Throughout the 1950s, the 86th played a critical role in deterring Soviet aggression and maintaining air superiority in the region. In 1958, the unit was redesignated as the 86th Tactical Fighter Wing, reflecting its evolving mission and continued commitment to collective defense in Europe.

The 87th Electronic Warfare Aggressor Squadron (87 EWAS) is a United States Air Force unit specialized in electronic warfare training and simulation. Originally activated as the 87th Pursuit Squadron in 1942, it served with distinction in World War II and underwent several redesignations and mission changes throughout its history. Reactivated in 2019 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, the squadron's current mission is to emulate adversary electronic attack capabilities, enabling U.S. and allied forces to train against realistic electronic threats. The 87 EWAS plays a critical role in enhancing the electronic warfare readiness and survivability of combat air forces.

The 88th Communications Squadron (88 CS) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Its origins date back to earlier communications units supporting the base and its predecessor organizations, adapting through numerous reorganizations and technological advances. The 88 CS provides comprehensive cyber and communications support, including network operations, cyber defense, and voice, video, and data services to over 30,000 personnel across Wright-Patterson AFB. As a critical enabler of AFMC’s research, development, and acquisition missions, the squadron ensures secure and reliable information flow for both day-to-day operations and contingency missions.

The 8th Special Forces Group (Airborne), or 8th SFG(A), was a United States Army Special Forces unit activated in 1963 at Fort Gulick, Panama Canal Zone. Its primary mission was to conduct unconventional warfare and counterinsurgency operations, especially throughout Latin America, as part of U.S. efforts to support allied nations during the Cold War. The group played a key role in training and advising Latin American military forces, notably through the U.S. Army School of the Americas. In 1972, the 8th SFG(A) was inactivated, with many of its personnel and responsibilities transferred to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group.

The 901st Military Airlift Command (MAC) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era to provide strategic airlift capabilities. Activated in the 1960s, the 901st MAC played a crucial role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to support U.S. military operations worldwide. The unit operated various cargo aircraft, most notably the C-141 Starlifter and C-130 Hercules, ensuring rapid mobility and logistical support. Throughout its service, the 901st MAC participated in numerous humanitarian missions and contingency operations before being inactivated as part of Air Force restructuring in the late 20th century.

The 908th Airlift Wing is a United States Air Force Reserve unit based at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Established in 1963 as the 908th Troop Carrier Group, it has undergone several redesignations, becoming the 908th Tactical Airlift Group and later the 908th Airlift Wing. The unit has primarily operated the C-130 Hercules aircraft, providing tactical airlift support for personnel, equipment, and humanitarian missions worldwide. Over its history, the 908th has supported operations including Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and domestic disaster relief efforts.

The 909th Tactical Hospital was a United States Air Force Reserve medical unit stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Activated in the mid-20th century, it provided crucial medical support and readiness for tactical air operations, ensuring rapid treatment and evacuation capabilities for deployed forces. The unit participated in numerous training exercises and supported both peacetime and contingency operations, often collaborating with other USAF medical and operational units. Over its years of service, the 909th contributed significantly to the preparedness and effectiveness of Air Force Reserve medical services before its eventual inactivation or reorganization.

The 90th Aerial Port Squadron (90th APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force specializing in air transportation and logistics support. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron has played a crucial role in the rapid deployment and sustainment of forces by managing cargo, passengers, and mail movement through air terminals worldwide. Throughout its history, the 90th APS has supported numerous operations, including humanitarian relief missions, contingency operations, and major military exercises. The unit's expertise in aerial port operations has ensured the efficient flow of personnel and materiel, contributing significantly to U.S. Air Force global mobility objectives.

The 914th Force Support Squadron (914th FSS) is a component of the 914th Air Refueling Wing, based at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, New York. The squadron provides essential support services, including personnel, education, morale, welfare, recreation, and sustainment operations to ensure readiness and mission capability for the wing. Originally established to support the 914th’s previous airlift mission, the FSS adapted its roles and services following the unit’s transition to an air refueling mission in 2017. Throughout its history, the 914th FSS has played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life and operational readiness for Reserve Airmen and their families.

The 91st Attack Squadron is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II as the 91st Aero Squadron in 1917. Throughout its history, the squadron has undergone several redesignations and has participated in major conflicts, including World War II and the Global War on Terrorism. In recent decades, the 91st has been at the forefront of remotely piloted aircraft operations, operating the MQ-9 Reaper to conduct intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike missions. Today, the squadron continues to play a crucial role in modern warfare, providing persistent attack capabilities to combatant commanders worldwide.

The **921st Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W)** was a United States Air Force unit activated during the early Cold War era. Established in 1952, the squadron was responsible for operating radar sites to detect and track potential airborne threats, primarily along the northern approaches to North America. Stationed in Canada as part of the Pinetree Line, the 921st AC&W played a key role in North American air defense by providing early warning and ground-controlled interception capabilities. The unit was inactivated in 1961 as radar technology and continental defense strategies evolved, leading to changing requirements for such units.

The 924th Tactical Airlift Group (TAG) was an Air Force Reserve unit established in 1963 at Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas. Initially equipped with the Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, the unit was later upgraded to operate the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, enhancing its tactical airlift capabilities. The 924th TAG provided vital airlift support, participating in numerous training exercises and supporting operations both domestically and overseas. The unit remained active until its inactivation in 1976, following changes in Air Force Reserve force structure and mission requirements.

The 92nd Security Forces Squadron (92nd SFS) is a vital unit assigned to Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, under the 92nd Air Refueling Wing. Activated in its current form following the Air Force's Security Forces restructuring in 1997, the 92nd SFS traces its roots to earlier military police and security units supporting the base since World War II. The squadron is responsible for providing law enforcement, base security, and force protection, ensuring the safety of personnel, resources, and critical air refueling missions. Throughout its history, the 92nd SFS has deployed personnel in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, earning recognition for its professionalism and dedication both at home and abroad.

The 937th Maintenance Group (937 MAG) is a United States Air Force unit specializing in aircraft and aerospace maintenance operations. Established in the mid-20th century, the group has supported various fighter, bomber, and transport squadrons, ensuring mission readiness through expert maintenance and logistics support. Over the decades, the 937 MAG has played a vital role in both peacetime operations and major conflicts, including deployments in support of Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Known for its technical proficiency and dedication, the 937 MAG continues to uphold a legacy of excellence within the Air Force maintenance community.

The 93rd Air Control Wing (93 ACW), based at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, was the first unit to operate the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft. Activated in 1996, the wing provided advanced airborne battle management, command and control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. The E-8C JSTARS played a pivotal role in operations such as Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, delivering real-time ground surveillance to commanders. In 2002, the 93 ACW was inactivated, and its JSTARS mission was transferred to the 116th Air Control Wing, continuing its legacy of supporting U.S. and allied ground forces worldwide.

The 964th Airborne Air Control Squadron (AACS) is a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished history in airborne command and control operations. Activated during World War II, the squadron originally operated as a bombardment and reconnaissance unit before transitioning to its current role. Today, the 964th AACS is assigned to the 552d Air Control Wing at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, and operates the E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft. The squadron plays a vital role in providing airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications to support U.S. and allied air operations worldwide.

The 964th Airborne Early Warning and Control Squadron (964th AEW-C Squadron) was activated during the Cold War as part of the United States Air Force's efforts to enhance aerial surveillance and command capabilities. Originally equipped with EC-121 Warning Star aircraft, the squadron played a vital role in providing airborne radar coverage and early warning against potential threats. Over the decades, the unit transitioned to operating the advanced E-3 Sentry AWACS, participating in numerous operations and exercises worldwide, including Operations Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. Today, the 964th AEW-C Squadron continues to serve as a key component of U.S. air defense, specializing in airborne command, control, and battle management missions.