U.S. Air Force

**Air Force Computer Acquisition** was established in the late 1970s as the United States Air Force recognized the growing importance of digital systems in modern warfare. The unit was tasked with procuring, integrating, and maintaining advanced computer hardware and software across Air Force operations. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Air Force Computer Acquisition played a pivotal role in developing secure command and control networks, supporting initiatives such as the Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) and early warning systems. As information technology evolved, the unit adapted to address cybersecurity threats and integrated emerging technologies to maintain the Air Force’s technological superiority.

The Air Traffic Controllers at Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta, Georgia, have a longstanding history of ensuring safe and efficient flight operations for both military and visiting aircraft. Established as part of Moody AFB’s essential support units, these controllers have played a critical role in training missions, search and rescue operations, and rapid deployment exercises since the base's inception in World War II. Over the decades, their expertise has contributed to the success of flying squadrons such as the 23d Wing, particularly in managing complex airspace during high-tempo operations. Their unwavering vigilance and technical proficiency continue to safeguard the skies over southern Georgia and support Moody's diverse mission sets.

The Alaska Air National Guard (AK ANG) was established in 1952 as the air militia of the State of Alaska, tasked with both federal and state missions. Its early focus was air defense during the Cold War, protecting the northern approaches to North America. Over the years, the AK ANG has expanded its roles to include search and rescue, disaster response, and airlift missions, notably providing critical support during natural disasters and emergencies within Alaska and beyond. Today, it operates key units such as the 168th Wing and 176th Wing, maintaining rapid response capabilities for both homeland defense and overseas deployments.

The 152nd Fighter Squadron is a unit of the Arizona Air National Guard, based at Tucson Air National Guard Base. Originally constituted during World War II as the 152nd Observation Squadron in 1942, the unit has undergone several redesignations and mission changes over the decades, including roles in reconnaissance, fighter, and training operations. Throughout its history, the squadron has been activated for federal service during major conflicts and emergencies, providing critical air support and pilot training. Today, the 152nd operates as a training squadron, focusing on fighter pilot instruction and supporting both state and national defense missions.

The Armed Forces Postal & Courier Service (AFPCS) in Charleston, SC, has played a critical logistical role in supporting U.S. military operations by ensuring secure and timely delivery of mail and official correspondence. Established to serve the needs of military personnel stationed in and around the Charleston area, the unit has facilitated the morale and welfare of service members by maintaining reliable communication links with families and command structures. Throughout its history, AFPCS Charleston has adapted to evolving technologies, transitioning from traditional mail handling to incorporating advanced tracking and security protocols. The unit's dedication has been instrumental during periods of conflict and peace, underpinning the operational effectiveness of the armed forces in the region.

Air Traffic Control (ATC) at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, has played a crucial role in supporting both training and operational missions since the base’s activation in 1941. Initially established as a pilot training center during World War II, Moody AFB has evolved over the decades to host various flying units, including rescue and fighter aircraft. The ATC unit ensures safe and efficient management of airspace, coordinating the complex movements of diverse aircraft such as the HC-130J Combat King II and HH-60G Pave Hawk. Through its commitment to excellence, ATC at Moody AFB continues to provide vital support for both peacetime operations and deployments worldwide.

AWS Hanau AAF (Army Airfield) was a key United States Army aviation facility located near Hanau, Germany, during the Cold War. Established in the post-World War II era, the airfield supported various aviation and support units, serving as a vital hub for rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft operations in support of U.S. Army Europe. AWS Hanau AAF played a significant role in NATO exercises, rapid deployment missions, and provided logistical support for surrounding installations in Hesse. With the drawdown of U.S. forces in Europe after the end of the Cold War, the airfield was eventually closed and returned to German control in the early 2000s.

The Base Supply Squadron has its origins in the logistical demands of modern air operations, tracing back to the expansion of air forces during World War II. Established to manage and distribute vital supplies, equipment, and spare parts, the squadron played a critical role in maintaining operational readiness on the home front and abroad. Over the decades, it evolved with advancements in technology and logistics, adopting computerized inventory and rapid deployment techniques. Today, the Base Supply Squadron remains an essential component of base operations, ensuring that military personnel and equipment are always mission-ready.

C Battery, 2nd Battalion, 35th Artillery, was a key component of the 54th Artillery Group, a unit of the U.S. Army with a distinguished service record during the Vietnam War. The 2nd Battalion, 35th Artillery, was activated in the early 1960s and deployed to Vietnam, where it provided critical fire support for infantry operations and defended firebases against enemy attacks. C Battery was renowned for its rapid and accurate artillery responses, supporting major operations throughout the Central Highlands and other contested regions. The unit earned commendations for its valor and professionalism before returning to the United States following the drawdown of U.S. forces.

C Troop, 4th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, was stationed at Camp Gary Owen near Young Ju Gol, South Korea, as part of the U.S. Army’s commitment to the defense of the Korean Peninsula. The unit served as a reconnaissance and security element for the 2nd Infantry Division, patrolling the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and monitoring North Korean activities. Throughout its deployment, C Troop conducted regular border surveillance, quick reaction force missions, and participated in joint training exercises with Republic of Korea forces. Their presence at Camp Gary Owen played a vital role in maintaining readiness and deterrence during periods of heightened tension along the DMZ.

The military unit designated CAFSC 90252, known as the Operating Room Specialist, has played a crucial role in the United States Air Force Medical Service. Established to provide skilled surgical and perioperative support, these specialists are trained in the preparation and maintenance of operating rooms, as well as assisting surgeons during procedures. Over the decades, 90252 personnel have deployed alongside combat and humanitarian missions, ensuring timely and expert surgical care for wounded service members. Their expertise has greatly contributed to the Air Force’s ability to save lives both in deployed field hospitals and stateside medical centers.

CANNON AFB

U.S. Air Force

Unit with 45 member associations.

**Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Military History:** The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was founded on December 1, 1941, just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor, as a civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Army Air Forces. During World War II, CAP pilots flew anti-submarine patrols, search and rescue missions, and courier flights along the American coastline, contributing to homeland security and saving countless lives. In 1948, CAP was designated as the official auxiliary of the newly formed United States Air Force, expanding its missions to include aerospace education and cadet training. Today, CAP continues its legacy as a volunteer organization, supporting emergency services, disaster relief, and youth development across the nation.

The 56th Fighter Wing Medical Group, associated with MacDill Air Force Base and CENTCOM, traces its heritage to the robust medical support provided to fighter operations since World War II. The group has played a key role in ensuring the health and readiness of airmen supporting both training and operational missions, including deployments in support of U.S. Central Command’s operations in the Middle East. At MacDill AFB, the medical group provides comprehensive healthcare, medical readiness training, and emergency response for personnel assigned to the 56th Fighter Wing and tenant units. Their ongoing commitment ensures the sustained effectiveness and resilience of Air Force missions both at home and abroad.

The Communications Group at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, has a distinguished history of providing vital communications support to the United States Air Force. Originally established to ensure secure and reliable communications for the base's operations, the unit has evolved with advancing technology, supporting both local and global missions. Over the decades, the Communications Group has played a key role in training, command and control, and information assurance for Air Education and Training Command and its associated units. Their commitment to excellence has helped maintain Randolph AFB's reputation as the "Showplace of the Air Force."

The Command Chaplain at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) serves as the principal religious and spiritual leader for the base, supporting the spiritual well-being and morale of Airmen and their families. Established alongside the growth of WPAFB as a central hub for aviation research and logistics, the chaplaincy has provided continuous support through major conflicts, including World War II, the Cold War, and into the present day. The unit offers worship services, counseling, and ethical guidance, ensuring the free exercise of religion for all personnel. Over the decades, the Command Chaplain’s office has adapted to meet the diverse needs of an evolving Air Force community, fostering resilience and readiness across the installation.

The Command Services Unit (SAFOIIC) is a specialized administrative support unit within the Philippine Air Force, operating under the Secretary, Air Force Office for Integrity and Internal Control (SAFOIIC). Established to provide essential command and control services, the unit plays a vital role in ensuring effective coordination, communication, and implementation of integrity and internal control measures across the PAF. Over the years, the Command Services Unit has contributed significantly to the development and enforcement of organizational policies aimed at upholding transparency, accountability, and ethical standards within the Air Force. Its ongoing mission is to support the SAFOIIC in strengthening institutional integrity and promoting a culture of good governance within the service.

Company A, 11th Battle Group, 3rd Brigade, was a U.S. Army unit stationed at Fort Ord, California, during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The 11th Battle Group was part of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, restructured under the Pentomic organization, which emphasized flexibility and atomic-age tactics. Company A participated in intensive training exercises at Fort Ord, preparing for rapid deployment and combat readiness during the Cold War era. In 1963, with the Army's transition to the ROAD (Reorganization Objective Army Divisions) structure, the 11th Battle Group was inactivated, and its personnel and lineage were absorbed into newly reconfigured battalions.

The Defense Communications Agency (DCA) was established in 1960 at the Pentagon to unify and manage the U.S. military's global communications networks. Tasked with ensuring secure and reliable communication across all branches of the Department of Defense, the DCA played a pivotal role during the Cold War era, supporting critical command and control functions. The agency was instrumental in developing advanced communication technologies and protocols, such as the Defense Data Network and early internet precursors. In 1991, the DCA was reorganized and renamed the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), continuing its mission in support of national defense.

The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) was established in 1961 as America's premier military intelligence organization, consolidating the various service intelligence efforts under a single agency to support the Department of Defense (DoD). During the Cold War, the DIA played a crucial role in analyzing Soviet military capabilities and intentions, providing vital intelligence to U.S. policymakers and military leaders. In the post-9/11 era, the agency expanded its focus to include global terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, and emerging cyber threats. Today, the DIA continues to deliver strategic and tactical intelligence to support U.S. military operations and national security decision-making worldwide.

**Desert Storm** refers to the codename for the coalition military operation during the Gulf War in 1991, rather than a specific unit. Operation Desert Storm was launched by a U.S.-led coalition to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation. Beginning on January 17, 1991, the operation commenced with a massive air campaign, followed by a swift ground assault starting February 24. The coalition's overwhelming force quickly defeated Iraqi forces, liberating Kuwait within 100 hours of the ground campaign’s launch. Desert Storm remains a significant example of modern joint and combined arms warfare, showcasing advanced technology and coalition cooperation.

Detachment 1, 6916th Security Squadron was a United States Air Force signals intelligence (SIGINT) unit active during the Cold War. Based at Iraklion Air Station, Crete, this detachment played a crucial role in monitoring Warsaw Pact communications and supporting NATO intelligence efforts in the Mediterranean region. Operating sophisticated electronic surveillance equipment, its personnel intercepted, analyzed, and reported critical information to higher headquarters. The unit’s operations contributed significantly to allied situational awareness and early warning capabilities throughout its period of activity.

Detachment 1500, USAFPACPCS (United States Air Force Pacific Command Personnel Center Squadron), was a key administrative and personnel unit located at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam (RVN), during the Vietnam War. As part of the Headquarters Command (HQ C), the detachment was responsible for processing and coordinating personnel actions, assignments, and replacements for Air Force personnel throughout the Pacific theater. The unit played a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness by ensuring timely and accurate personnel support during one of the most challenging periods in Air Force history. Its efforts contributed to the overall effectiveness and morale of U.S. Air Force operations in Vietnam.

Detachment 2 of the 1st Aerospace Communications Wing was established during the height of the Cold War to provide specialized communications support for United States Air Force space and missile operations. Operating from a secure facility, the unit played a crucial role in relaying command and control information between launch facilities and higher headquarters. Det 2’s expertise in highly secure, rapid communications ensured reliable connectivity for critical missions, including satellite launches and missile warning systems. The detachment’s contributions were instrumental in maintaining national security and technological superiority during a pivotal era in aerospace defense.