U.S. Air Force

The 86th Military Airlift Squadron (MAS), stationed at Travis Air Force Base, California, played a vital role in the United States Air Force’s global airlift operations. Activated in 1952, the squadron was equipped with aircraft such as the C-124 Globemaster II and later the C-141 Starlifter, providing strategic airlift capability during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and numerous humanitarian missions. The 86th MAS was instrumental in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to support U.S. military commitments worldwide. The unit was inactivated in 1993 as part of a broader reorganization of Air Mobility Command forces.

The 89th Surgical Operations Squadron (89th SGC) is a United States Air Force medical unit assigned to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. Activated to provide comprehensive surgical and medical care, the squadron plays a critical role in supporting the 89th Airlift Wing, which is responsible for airlift missions including those involving the President and other senior leaders. Over its history, the 89th SGC has maintained readiness to deploy and deliver surgical capabilities in both peacetime and contingency operations. The unit's commitment to excellence ensures the health and operational effectiveness of Air Force personnel and distinguished visitors alike.

The 8th Aircraft Generation Squadron (8th AEMS), originally designated as the 8th Aircraft Generation Squadron, has its roots in the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to aircraft maintenance and support. Activated as part of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, the unit played a crucial role in sustaining combat readiness, particularly during the tense periods of the Cold War and beyond. The 8th AEMS specialized in aircraft maintenance, munitions, and electronic systems, ensuring that the wing’s fighter aircraft—such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon—were mission-capable at all times. Over the years, the unit’s dedication and expertise have contributed significantly to the “Wolf Pack’s” reputation for operational excellence in the Pacific region.

The 90th Communications Squadron (90th CS) is a vital unit assigned to the 90th Mission Support Group, 90th Missile Wing, at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. Established to provide robust communication and information technology support, the squadron ensures secure, reliable, and rapid communications for the wing’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) operations. Throughout its history, the 90th CS has adapted to technological advancements, supporting both peacetime and strategic deterrence missions. The unit plays a crucial role in maintaining the command, control, communications, and computer (C4) infrastructure essential for the United States' nuclear deterrent force.

The 91st Fighter Maintenance Squadron (91st FMS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for the maintenance and support of fighter aircraft assigned to its parent wing. Activated during the Cold War era, the 91st FMS ensured the operational readiness of aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre and later the F-100 Super Sabre, contributing to the wing's combat effectiveness. Stationed at various bases, including RAF Bentwaters in the United Kingdom, the squadron played a key role in NATO defense missions and routine training operations. The 91st FMS was eventually inactivated as part of post-Cold War force reductions and organizational restructuring.

The 922nd Radio Relay Squadron (RRS) was a United States Air Force unit specializing in communications and signal relay operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a vital role in maintaining long-range radio communications for command and control across various USAF theaters. The 922nd RRS was often deployed to strategic locations, providing critical support for both peacetime and contingency operations. Over its years of service, the unit contributed significantly to the effectiveness and reliability of Air Force communications before its eventual inactivation.

The 924th Security Police Squadron was an Air Force Reserve unit assigned to the 924th Tactical Airlift Group at Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas. Activated in the 1960s, its primary mission was to provide base security, law enforcement, and force protection for airlift operations. The squadron trained extensively in ground defense and base security protocols, supporting both stateside and overseas missions as required. The 924th Security Police Squadron remained active until the inactivation of the 924th Airlift Group in the mid-1990s, following post-Cold War restructuring and the closure of Bergstrom AFB.

The 92nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) is a component of the 92nd Maintenance Group, assigned to Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington. The unit’s primary mission is to provide maintenance and support for the KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, ensuring their readiness for global aerial refueling operations. Formed as part of the Air Force’s reorganization for more efficient aircraft maintenance cycles, the 92nd AMU has played a crucial role in sustaining air mobility during major operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit is recognized for its high standards of maintenance excellence, contributing significantly to the effectiveness and reliability of the Air Force’s air refueling capabilities.

The 930th Component Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (CAMS) was an integral part of the United States Air Force Reserve, assigned to the 930th Tactical Fighter Group. Activated in the 1960s, the unit was originally stationed at Grissom Air Force Base, Indiana, where it provided specialized aircraft maintenance support for the group’s Douglas A-37 Dragonfly attack aircraft. The 930th CAMS played a vital role in ensuring aircraft readiness during both stateside training and operational deployments, particularly during the Vietnam War era. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader Air Force Reserve reorganization efforts in the late 1970s.

The 932nd Medical Squadron is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, assigned to the 932nd Airlift Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. Established to provide comprehensive medical support, the squadron ensures the health, readiness, and medical care of wing personnel, both in peacetime and during deployments. Throughout its history, the 932nd Medical Squadron has supported numerous training missions, humanitarian efforts, and contingency operations, adapting to evolving Air Force medical standards and technologies. The unit plays a critical role in aeromedical evacuation, preventive medicine, and emergency response, contributing greatly to the overall mission capability of the 932nd Airlift Wing.

The 93rd Field Maintenance Squadron (93rd FMS) was a vital support unit within the U.S. Air Force, primarily stationed at Castle Air Force Base, California. Established during the Cold War, the squadron was responsible for providing maintenance and logistical support to the 93rd Bombardment Wing, which operated B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft. The 93rd FMS played a key role in ensuring the operational readiness and effectiveness of the Strategic Air Command's nuclear deterrence mission. The unit was eventually inactivated following the end of the Cold War and the subsequent restructuring of the U.S. Air Force in the 1990s.

The 94th Troop Carrier Wing was established in 1949 as part of the United States Air Force Reserve, originally located at Marietta Army Airfield, Georgia. During the Korean War, it was called to active duty, providing vital airlift support, including the transport of troops, equipment, and supplies. Over the years, the wing transitioned through various aircraft, such as the C-119 Flying Boxcar and later the C-130 Hercules, enhancing its tactical airlift capabilities. Today, redesignated as the 94th Airlift Wing, it continues its mission from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, supporting global mobility and contingency operations.

The 965th Airborne Air Control Squadron (965th AACS), based at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, is a key unit within the U.S. Air Force’s airborne command and control community. Activated in 1955, the squadron has operated the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft since the late 1970s, providing all-weather surveillance, command, control, and communications to U.S. and allied forces. The 965th AACS has played vital roles in numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, delivering crucial airborne battle management. Its continuous mission readiness and global deployments underscore its importance in maintaining air superiority and situational awareness for U.S. and NATO operations.

The 97th Bombardment Wing (BMW) was first activated during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces. Stationed in Italy, the unit played a significant role in the strategic bombing campaign against Axis targets across southern and central Europe. After the war, the 97th was re-designated and later became the 97th Bomb Wing under the newly independent United States Air Force, operating heavy bombers such as the B-29 and B-47 during the early Cold War period. The unit's legacy continues today as the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, focusing on airlift and air refueling training.

The 9th Air Support Operations Squadron (9th ASOS) is a United States Air Force unit that specializes in providing tactical command and control of air power assets to ground forces. Activated in 1996, the squadron has supported numerous Army units, particularly those stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, including the famed 1st Cavalry Division. Throughout its history, the 9th ASOS has deployed personnel in support of major operations such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, delivering critical close air support coordination. The squadron’s Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) play a vital role in integrating air and ground operations to maximize battlefield effectiveness.

The 9th Mission Support Command (9th MSC), headquartered at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, traces its lineage to the 9th Army Reserve Command established in 1962. As the U.S. Army Reserve’s senior command in the Pacific, the 9th MSC oversees more than 3,500 Soldiers across Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, American Samoa, Japan, and Korea. Its mission includes providing trained and ready forces for overseas contingency operations, homeland defense, and disaster response throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The command has supported major operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and has played a vital role in regional humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

The 9th Special Operations Squadron (9th SOS) is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force with roots tracing back to World War II. Originally activated in 1944 as the 39th Bombardment Squadron, it was later re-designated and played a vital role in unconventional warfare, particularly during the Vietnam War, operating the specialized Lockheed MC-130 aircraft for covert infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions. In subsequent years, the 9th SOS continued its legacy of special operations by supporting global contingency operations, including missions in the Middle East and elsewhere. Today, the squadron remains integral to Air Force Special Operations Command, providing unique air mobility and support for special operations forces worldwide.

The Aircraft Ground Equipment (A.G.E.) Repair unit has played a crucial role in military aviation maintenance since its inception during World War II. Tasked with the upkeep and repair of essential ground support equipment—such as power carts, hydraulic testers, and air conditioning units—A.G.E. specialists ensure that aircraft can be serviced and launched efficiently. Over the decades, their expertise has proven vital during major conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where rapid aircraft turnaround was essential to mission success. Today, A.G.E. units continue to support global operations, adapting to advancing technology and maintaining the readiness of modern air fleets.

**AFDL-6** is a U.S. Navy auxiliary floating dry dock launched in 1943 during World War II. Originally designated as YFD-62, it was later reclassified as AFDL-6 (Auxiliary Floating Dry Dock, Light). Throughout its service, AFDL-6 provided essential repair and maintenance support to naval vessels, especially in forward areas where shore-based facilities were unavailable. The unit contributed significantly to fleet readiness during both World War II and the Cold War before being placed in reserve status.

The Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL) was established in 1968 to consolidate Air Force research in the behavioral and social sciences, focusing on personnel selection, training, and human factors engineering. Headquartered at Brooks Air Force Base, Texas, AFHRL integrated earlier laboratories such as the Personnel Research Laboratory and the Training Research Laboratory. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, AFHRL made significant contributions to improving Air Force training methods, personnel systems, and cockpit design through rigorous scientific research. In 1991, as part of a broader Air Force reorganization, AFHRL was inactivated and its functions were absorbed by the Armstrong Laboratory.

United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) was established on October 1, 2007, as the unified combatant command responsible for U.S. military operations and activities across the African continent, excluding Egypt. Headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, AFRICOM’s mission is to strengthen defense capabilities of African partners, conduct military operations, and promote security and stability throughout the region. The command works closely with African nations, regional organizations, and international partners to address transnational threats such as terrorism, piracy, and humanitarian crises. Over the years, AFRICOM has supported a range of initiatives, including counterterrorism operations, disaster relief efforts, and capacity-building programs to foster regional security and cooperation.

The Air Force Audit Agency (AFAA) was established in 1948 as a separate agency within the Department of the Air Force, following the creation of the United States Air Force as an independent service. Its primary mission is to provide audit services, evaluating the efficiency, effectiveness, and economy of Air Force programs and operations. Over the decades, the AFAA has played a crucial role in ensuring financial stewardship, accountability, and transparency within the Air Force by identifying risks and recommending improvements. The agency continues to support Air Force leadership by delivering independent, objective assessments that enhance mission readiness and resource management.

The Air Force Avionics Laboratory was established in 1959 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, as part of the Air Force Systems Command. Its mission was to conduct advanced research and development in avionics technologies, including navigation, communications, electronic warfare, and sensor systems for both manned and unmanned aircraft. Over the decades, the Laboratory played a crucial role in advancing avionics capabilities, directly supporting major Air Force platforms such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon and various reconnaissance aircraft. In 1991, the Laboratory was merged into the Air Force Wright Laboratory, continuing its legacy of technological innovation within a larger organizational structure.

The North Carolina Air National Guard (NCANG) was officially established on March 15, 1948, as the 156th Fighter Squadron, based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Throughout its history, the NCANG has participated in major conflicts and operations, including the Korean War, Operation Desert Storm, and post-9/11 missions such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit primarily operates the C-17 Globemaster III, providing vital airlift capabilities for both federal and state missions, including disaster relief and humanitarian aid. The NCANG continues to serve with distinction, supporting both national defense and the citizens of North Carolina during emergencies.