U.S. Air Force

TUSLOG Detachment 118 was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, during the Cold War era. Established under the umbrella of The United States Logistics Group (TUSLOG), Det 118 played a pivotal role in supporting NATO operations and maintaining U.S. strategic interests in the region. The detachment was responsible for logistical support, operational planning, and coordination of U.S. Air Force activities in Turkey. Its presence contributed to American deterrence posture and facilitated rapid deployment capabilities in the Eastern Mediterranean until its eventual inactivation as U.S. force structure in Turkey was reorganized.

The USAF Honor Guard, established in 1948, serves as the official ceremonial unit of the United States Air Force. Based at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., its Guardians are tasked with representing the Air Force at high-profile ceremonies, including presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and wreath-laying events at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The unit maintains strict standards of discipline, precision, and appearance, embodying Air Force values in every public appearance. Over the decades, the Honor Guard has become a symbol of national pride and military professionalism, honoring both the service and sacrifice of Airmen past and present.

The USAF Regional Hospital at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, has served as a vital medical facility for the United States Air Force since its establishment in the mid-20th century. Originally built to support the growing needs of Sheppard AFB, the hospital has provided comprehensive healthcare services to active-duty personnel, dependents, and retirees. Over the decades, it has played a critical role in supporting airmen's health and readiness, especially during periods of conflict and training surges. The hospital is also known for its collaboration with the base's extensive technical training programs, ensuring medical readiness and support for Air Force missions worldwide.

The United States Air Force Environmental Technical Applications Center Air Weather Service (Military Airlift Command), commonly abbreviated as USAFETAC AWS (MAC), was a specialized meteorological unit within the U.S. Air Force. Established in the mid-20th century, its primary mission was to provide advanced environmental and climatological data to support military operations, with a focus on global airlift missions under the Military Airlift Command (MAC). The unit gathered, analyzed, and disseminated weather intelligence critical for flight planning, navigation, and mission execution worldwide. Throughout its history, USAFETAC AWS (MAC) played a vital role in enhancing operational effectiveness and safety for Air Force missions until its functions were eventually integrated into successor organizations as military weather services evolved.

The Utah Air National Guard was established in 1946 as the 191st Fighter Squadron, making it one of the earliest Air National Guard units formed after World War II. Headquartered at Salt Lake City, the unit has seen several redesignations and mission changes, evolving from flying fighter aircraft to operating air refueling and support missions. The 151st Air Refueling Wing, its current primary unit, has supported both domestic operations and overseas deployments, including missions during Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Utah Air National Guard continues to play a vital role in national defense and emergency response, integrating seamlessly with the U.S. Air Force and supporting state and federal missions.

Wheeler Army Airfield, located near Wahiawa on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, has played a significant role in U.S. military history since its establishment in 1922. Originally known as Wheeler Field, it became a key base for Army Air Corps operations and was notably attacked during the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, suffering heavy damage to aircraft and facilities. Throughout World War II and the Cold War, Wheeler served as a hub for air defense, training, and logistics in the Pacific. Today, Wheeler Army Airfield continues to support Army aviation units, including the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, as part of U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii.

The 103rd Airlift Wing, based at Bradley Air National Guard Base in Connecticut, traces its origins to 1923 as the 118th Observation Squadron, one of the original National Guard aviation units. Over the decades, the unit has undergone several redesignations and mission changes, supporting missions ranging from observation and fighter operations to airlift. In 2008, the wing transitioned to its current airlift mission, operating the C-130H Hercules aircraft to provide tactical airlift capabilities in support of U.S. and allied operations worldwide. The 103rd Airlift Wing has participated in numerous domestic and overseas missions, including humanitarian relief, disaster response, and combat support operations, reflecting a proud legacy of adaptability and service.

The 10th Air Force, Train Rider Detachment #1, was an operational unit established during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces. Its primary mission was to provide security and oversight for the rail transport of critical military supplies, aircraft parts, and munitions across the continental United States. Detachment members, known as "train riders," traveled with shipments to deter sabotage and ensure safe delivery to ports and airfields supporting overseas operations. Their efforts played a vital role in maintaining the logistical flow crucial for the success of air campaigns in both the European and Pacific Theaters.

The 112th Combat Support Squadron (112 CSS) has a storied legacy of providing vital logistical and operational support to air operations. Established during the Cold War era, the unit played a crucial role in maintaining base readiness and supporting deployed aircrews during major exercises and contingency operations. Over the decades, the 112th CSS has adapted to evolving mission requirements, including humanitarian assistance and homeland defense. Today, the squadron continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, ensuring seamless support for mission success at home and abroad.

The 115th Air Control Squadron (115th ACS) is a unit of the Georgia Air National Guard, located at Savannah Air National Guard Base, Georgia. Established in 1948, the squadron has a distinguished history of providing air battle management, command and control, and radar surveillance for both federal and state missions. The 115th ACS has participated in numerous joint exercises, national emergencies, and overseas deployments, supporting operations such as Operation Noble Eagle and Operation Enduring Freedom. The unit continues to play a vital role in enhancing national defense through advanced airspace management and integration with both U.S. and allied air forces.

The 139th Civil Engineer Squadron, known as the 139th CES, is a key support unit within the 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air National Guard, stationed at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph, Missouri. The squadron specializes in engineering, construction, emergency management, and disaster response, providing essential base infrastructure support and rapid deployment capabilities. As part of its Defense Emergency Force (DEF) mission, the 139th CES has participated in both domestic operations—such as disaster relief during floods and storms—and overseas deployments supporting U.S. Air Force missions. Over the years, the unit has earned recognition for its professionalism, readiness, and vital contributions to both state and federal military operations.

The 13th Maritime Air Squadron (13th MAS) is a unit of the Philippine Air Force specializing in maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions. Established in the early 2000s, the squadron operates primarily out of Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, serving as a key component in the country's efforts to secure its vast maritime domain. The 13th MAS has played a crucial role in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and monitoring activities in the West Philippine Sea, often coordinating with the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard. Over the years, the unit has contributed significantly to maritime security, disaster response, and sovereignty patrols, reinforcing the nation's territorial integrity.

1611 CEMS, or the 1611th Contingency Equipment Maintenance Squadron, was established to provide rapid-response maintenance and support for contingency operations worldwide. Formed in the early 1990s, the unit specialized in the repair and upkeep of vital equipment used in both peacetime and deployed environments. Over the years, 1611 CEMS played a crucial role in supporting U.S. Air Force missions, ensuring readiness and operational capability during numerous exercises and real-world deployments. The squadron earned recognition for its adaptability, technical expertise, and commitment to mission success in diverse and challenging conditions.

**1623rd Support Squadron (1623SUPPRON), Military Air Transport Service (MATS):** The 1623rd Support Squadron (1623SUPPRON) was a unit assigned to the Military Air Transport Service (MATS), established during the height of the Cold War to provide critical logistical, maintenance, and administrative support to MATS airlift operations. Based at Kelly Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron played a vital role in ensuring the readiness and efficiency of long-range transport missions, supporting both stateside and overseas deployments. Its personnel managed and maintained various types of cargo aircraft, contributing to the rapid global movement of troops, supplies, and equipment. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of the broader reorganization of Air Force transport and support units in the mid-1960s, with its mission absorbed by successor organizations.

The 164th Combat Aviation Group was a United States Army aviation unit activated during the Vietnam War. Organized in 1968, the group played a crucial role in providing helicopter support, including troop transport, resupply, and aerial reconnaissance throughout South Vietnam. The 164th managed several aviation battalions and was instrumental in major operations such as Lam Son 719, supporting both American and Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) forces. The unit earned commendations for its performance under fire and was inactivated following the reduction of U.S. forces in Vietnam in the early 1970s.

The 16th Aircraft Generation Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for aircraft maintenance and generation, primarily supporting flying operations. Activated at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, the squadron was assigned to the 16th Tactical Fighter Wing. Its personnel maintained and prepared aircraft, ensuring mission readiness and supporting training and operational sorties. The squadron was inactivated in 1991 as part of an Air Force-wide restructuring, with its functions absorbed by other maintenance units.

The 17th Special Operations Squadron (17th SOS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, currently assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Group at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Originally activated during World War II as the 17th Observation Squadron, the unit has undergone several redesignations and mission changes over the decades. In its modern incarnation, the 17th SOS operates the Lockheed MC-130J Commando II, specializing in infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply of special operations forces throughout the Indo-Pacific region. The squadron has participated in numerous operations, including humanitarian missions and joint exercises with partner nations, showcasing its versatility and importance in U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command.

**1806 Support Squadron** was established in the early 1960s as part of the United States Air Force’s logistics and support structure. Throughout the Cold War, the unit provided critical maintenance, supply, and transportation services to various operational wings, ensuring mission readiness both at home and during overseas deployments. The squadron played a vital role during Operation Desert Storm, where its efficient logistical support contributed to sustained air operations. In the post-9/11 era, the 1806 Support Squadron continued to adapt, supporting global contingency operations and evolving into a modern, flexible support unit for 21st-century challenges.

The 183rd Reserves Alabama was a reserve military unit established to support the Alabama National Guard during periods of increased operational need. Formed in the mid-20th century, the unit was primarily tasked with providing trained personnel and logistical support to active-duty formations within the state. The 183rd Reserves participated in numerous state and federal mobilizations, including disaster response operations and national emergencies. Over the years, the unit earned recognition for its professionalism and readiness, contributing significantly to Alabama’s military preparedness before its eventual reorganization in the early 2000s.

The 1840 Supply Squadron (1840 Supply Sq) was established to provide vital logistical and supply support within its parent wing, ensuring operational readiness and sustainment of mission-critical resources. Throughout its active years, the squadron managed procurement, storage, and distribution of equipment and materials, playing a crucial role in the smooth functioning of both peacetime and contingency operations. The unit frequently supported joint exercises and deployments, demonstrating adaptability and efficiency in diverse environments. Renowned for its professionalism and innovation, the 1840 Supply Sq earned several commendations before its eventual reorganization and integration into a larger logistics group.

The 187th Signal Group was a communications unit within the United States Army, originally constituted during the Cold War era to provide signal support to higher headquarters. Throughout its service, the group played a critical role in ensuring secure and reliable communications across various commands, both in training exercises and real-world operations. The 187th Signal Group was involved in supporting major military exercises and, at times, contributed to overseas deployments, adapting to advancing technologies in military communications. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of Army restructuring and modernization efforts but remains recognized for its legacy of technical excellence and service.

The 192nd Airlift Squadron is a unit of the Nevada Air National Guard, based at Reno Air National Guard Base. Established in 1943 as the 408th Fighter Squadron, it served with distinction in World War II, flying P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater. In 1946, it was redesignated as the 192nd Fighter Squadron and later transitioned through several aircraft and mission changes, including fighter-interceptor and tactical reconnaissance roles. Today, the squadron operates C-130 Hercules aircraft, providing airlift support for both state and federal missions, including humanitarian aid and combat operations worldwide.

The **1947th Communications Squadron** was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Wiesbaden Air Base, Germany, during the early years of the Cold War. Activated in the late 1940s, the squadron was responsible for providing essential communications support for U.S. Air Force operations in the European theater, including the coordination of air traffic, secure message transmission, and logistical communications. The 1947th played a critical role during the Berlin Airlift (1948–1949), ensuring seamless communication between aircrews and command elements. Over the years, the squadron adapted to evolving technologies before eventual inactivation or consolidation as part of broader USAF organizational changes in Europe.

The 1948 Communications Squadron was established during the early years of the Cold War to provide vital communications support within the United States Air Force. Activated in the late 1940s, the unit was tasked with managing and maintaining secure communication lines for command and control operations. Throughout its service, the 1948 Communications Squadron played a crucial role in both domestic and overseas missions, ensuring seamless information flow during critical periods. The squadron's legacy is marked by its adaptability to rapidly evolving communications technology and its steadfast commitment to operational excellence.