U.S. Air Force

The 3320th Air Base Group (Air Training Command), commonly abbreviated as 3320nd ABGp (ATC), was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to Air Training Command. Activated in the late 1940s at Amarillo Air Force Base, Texas, the group was responsible for providing base support and operational services to training units stationed at the base, including technical and basic training operations. Throughout its existence, the 3320nd ABGp played a crucial role in supporting the mission of training new Air Force personnel during both the Korean War and the early Cold War period. The unit was eventually inactivated in the 1960s as part of organizational changes and the closure of Amarillo AFB.

The 3320th MS Group (Maintenance Squadron Group) was a United States Air Force unit active during the Cold War era. It was primarily stationed at Amarillo Air Force Base, Texas, where it played a crucial role in the technical training and maintenance support for various USAF aircraft and missile systems. The group was responsible for ensuring operational readiness by providing specialized maintenance, logistics, and training for airmen assigned to its command. The 3320th MS Group contributed significantly to the overall mission of the Air Training Command before being inactivated as part of the restructuring of USAF training operations in the late 1960s.

The 332nd Air Expeditionary Group (AEG) traces its lineage to the famed 332nd Fighter Group, known as the Tuskegee Airmen, who distinguished themselves during World War II with their exemplary combat record in the skies over Europe. Reactivated in the modern era as part of the U.S. Air Force's expeditionary structure, the 332nd AEG has supported operations in the Middle East, including Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. The group has been responsible for a variety of missions, such as air combat, reconnaissance, and close air support. Continuing its legacy, the 332nd AEG embodies the heritage of the Tuskegee Airmen while delivering vital airpower in contemporary conflicts.

The 3345th Band was a United States Army musical unit activated during World War II. Tasked with boosting troop morale and supporting ceremonial functions, the band performed at military bases, parades, and special events throughout its service. Comprised of skilled musicians drawn from across the country, the 3345th Band played a vital role in maintaining esprit de corps among soldiers. After the war, the unit was inactivated as the Army demobilized its wartime forces.

The 3350th Technical Training Wing (TTW) and its successor, the 3370th Technical Training Group (TTG), were key units stationed at Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois. Established in the post-World War II era, the 3350th TTW was responsible for providing advanced technical training in aircraft maintenance, weather, and missile systems for thousands of Air Force personnel. In 1971, the 3350th TTW was redesignated as the 3370th TTG, continuing its mission of technical training support until Chanute AFB’s closure in 1993. Throughout its service, the unit played a vital role in preparing Air Force technicians and specialists, contributing significantly to the readiness and effectiveness of the U.S. Air Force.

The 3359th Weather Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing vital meteorological support to military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron operated under the Air Weather Service, delivering forecasts and weather data crucial for flight safety, mission planning, and operational effectiveness. Stationed at various locations throughout its service, the 3359th contributed to both peacetime and contingency missions, ensuring commanders had accurate environmental intelligence. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader Air Force restructuring and modernization of weather services.

The 337 Cameron Highlanders, often referred to simply as "337 Cameron," was a battalion-level unit associated with the historic Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, a distinguished Scottish infantry regiment of the British Army. Raised during the First World War as part of Kitchener's New Army, the 337th Battalion drew heavily from the Highlands and served primarily in training and home defense roles, supporting frontline units with reinforcements. Although the 337 Cameron did not see direct combat as a formed unit overseas, its members contributed significantly to the larger war effort through their service and integration into other battalions on the Western Front. After the war, the battalion was disbanded, but its legacy endures as part of the proud history of the Cameron Highlanders.

The 33rd Component Repair Squadron (33rd CRS) was an integral unit within the United States Air Force, primarily tasked with maintaining and repairing key aircraft components to ensure operational readiness. Activated as part of the 33rd Fighter Wing, the squadron specialized in avionics, hydraulics, and engine maintenance for fighter aircraft such as the F-15 Eagle. Throughout its service, the 33rd CRS supported numerous deployments and played a pivotal role in sustaining the combat capabilities of its parent wing. The squadron’s expertise and dedication contributed significantly to the overall mission success of the 33rd Fighter Wing until its eventual reorganization under Air Force maintenance group restructuring initiatives.

The 341st Security Support Group at Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB), Montana, plays a vital role in safeguarding the operational readiness and security of the United States’ intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) force, primarily under the 341st Missile Wing. Its mission encompasses providing specialized support, logistics, and training to security forces responsible for protecting missile silos and related facilities. At Eglin Air Force Base (EAFB), Florida, the 39th Combat Defense Squadron (CDS) Security was activated during the Cold War era, tasked with defending the base and its critical assets against potential threats. The 39th CDS contributed significantly to base defense readiness, field exercises, and the development of evolving U.S. Air Force security doctrines before its eventual inactivation as part of broader Air Force Security Police restructuring.

The 348th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron (SAC) traces its origins to World War II, when it was first activated as a bombardment unit. Reactivated during the early Cold War, the squadron became part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), taking on the mission of strategic reconnaissance. Operating aircraft such as the RB-47 Stratojet, the 348th conducted long-range intelligence-gathering and surveillance missions, often penetrating Soviet airspace during periods of heightened tension. The unit played a vital role in SAC’s global reconnaissance network before being inactivated as technology and strategic needs evolved.

The 34th General Support Group, COH, was established in the late 1960s as part of a broader reorganization of combat support elements within the Continental Operations Headquarters (COH). Tasked with providing logistical, maintenance, and administrative support to frontline units, the group played a vital role during major field exercises and contingency operations throughout the 1970s and 1980s. The 34th General Support Group became known for its rapid deployment capability and efficient supply chain management, earning several unit commendations. In the post-Cold War era, the group adapted to new missions, supporting humanitarian and peacekeeping operations before its eventual inactivation in the early 2000s as part of force restructuring efforts.

**3500th USAF Hospital – Short Military History:** The 3500th USAF Hospital was established as part of the United States Air Force’s commitment to providing comprehensive medical care for airmen and their families. Located at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, the unit played a crucial role in supporting the training mission of the base, particularly during the height of the Cold War and throughout the Vietnam War era. The hospital offered a full range of medical, surgical, and emergency services, ensuring operational readiness and the health of base personnel. The 3500th USAF Hospital continued its service until Reese AFB’s closure in 1997, leaving a legacy of excellence in military medicine.

The 351st Field Maintenance Missile Squadron (FMMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force, activated during the Cold War era to support the nation’s strategic missile forces. Stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, the squadron was responsible for the maintenance and repair of Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missiles assigned to the 351st Strategic Missile Wing. The 351 FMMS ensured the operational readiness of these nuclear missiles, playing a critical role in America’s deterrence posture throughout the period. The unit remained active until the gradual deactivation of the Minuteman II system in the 1990s, after which its mission was discontinued following post-Cold War arms reduction agreements.

The 3520th Flight Line Maintenance Squadron (ATC) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Air Training Command. It was activated at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, where it played a crucial role in providing flight line maintenance support for pilot training operations. The squadron was responsible for ensuring the operational readiness and serviceability of training aircraft, contributing significantly to the mission of training new Air Force pilots. The 3520th supported a variety of aircraft over its tenure until organizational changes and restructuring led to its inactivation as part of broader Air Force maintenance realignments.

The 3525th USAF Hospital - Physiological Training Unit was an integral component of the United States Air Force’s training infrastructure during the mid-20th century. Located at Williams Air Force Base, Arizona, it was primarily responsible for providing medical support and specialized physiological training to pilots and aircrew. The unit focused on preparing personnel for the physical and psychological stresses of high-altitude and high-speed flight, including hypoxia training and altitude chamber instruction. By supporting both operational readiness and pilot safety, the 3525th played a crucial role in the development of advanced jet aviation during the early Cold War era.

The 353rd Civil Affairs Command (CACOM) is a United States Army Reserve unit with a distinguished history of supporting civil-military operations worldwide. Originally constituted in 1952, the 353rd has played a crucial role in facilitating cooperation between military forces and civilian populations, particularly during humanitarian missions and post-conflict reconstruction. The unit has deployed personnel to support operations in regions such as the Balkans, the Middle East, and Africa, providing expertise in governance, infrastructure, and public health. Throughout its history, the 353rd Civil Affairs Command has demonstrated adaptability and professionalism, contributing significantly to U.S. Army efforts to build peace and stability in complex environments.

The 354th Civil Engineer Squadron, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight (354th CES/CED), stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and operational readiness of both the base and deployed locations. The unit is responsible for detecting, identifying, rendering safe, and disposing of hazardous explosive devices, including unexploded ordnance (UXO) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The 354th CES/CED has supported numerous deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, providing EOD expertise to joint and coalition forces. Additionally, the unit regularly collaborates with local, state, and federal agencies to respond to explosive threats and support VIP protection missions throughout the region.

The 3550th Air Police Squadron was an essential security and law enforcement unit assigned to Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, during the Cold War era. Activated in the early 1950s, the squadron provided base security, protected vital Air Force assets, and maintained discipline among personnel at the home of the 3550th Flying Training Wing. Members of the squadron were responsible for patrolling the installation, manning entry control points, and responding to emergencies or security incidents. The 3550th Air Police Squadron was eventually redesignated as part of the Air Force’s evolving security and law enforcement structure, reflecting broader changes within the Security Police career field.

The 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron (35th LRS) is a key support unit assigned to the 35th Fighter Wing at Misawa Air Base, Japan. Its lineage traces back to its activation in support of U.S. Air Force operations in the Pacific theater. The squadron is responsible for providing comprehensive logistics support, including supply, transportation, and fuels management, ensuring the operational readiness of both personnel and aircraft. Over the decades, the 35th LRS has played a vital role in supporting numerous exercises, deployments, and contingency operations throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

The 35th Supply Squadron Fuels, an integral component of the United States Air Force, has played a critical role in ensuring fuel logistics and support for air operations. Originally activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was tasked with maintaining and distributing aviation and ground fuels to support both peacetime and combat missions. Stationed at various locations such as Yokota Air Base in Japan, the 35th Fuels Squadron supported operations throughout the Pacific, contributing to the readiness and sustainment of U.S. air power in the region. Over the years, the squadron earned recognition for its excellence in fuel management, safety, and support during numerous exercises and contingency operations.

The 3613th Combat Crew Training Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established to provide specialized water survival training to aircrew members. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron operated primarily out of Homestead Air Force Base, Florida, and later at Tyndall Air Force Base. Its mission was to ensure that pilots and other aircrew were prepared to survive and evade capture in the event of a water landing or bailout. The unit was eventually redesignated as the 17th Crew Training Squadron in the 1990s as part of a broader reorganization of Air Force training programs.

The 364th Civil Affairs Brigade, based in Portland, Oregon, is a United States Army Reserve unit specializing in civil-military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the brigade’s mission has included supporting both domestic and overseas contingency operations by facilitating cooperation between military forces and civilian populations. The 364th has deployed members to various global hotspots, including Iraq and Afghanistan, where they played vital roles in reconstruction, governance, and humanitarian assistance. Their expertise in civil affairs has made them an essential asset in bridging military objectives with the needs of local communities.

The 3655th Basic Military Training Squadron (BMTS) was a key unit responsible for conducting basic military training for new United States Air Force recruits. Established at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron played a vital role in transforming civilians into Airmen, instilling discipline, physical fitness, and foundational military skills. Throughout its existence, the 3655 BMTS adapted its curriculum to meet the evolving needs of the Air Force, especially during periods of increased enlistment such as the Cold War and Vietnam War eras. The squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader organizational changes within Air Force basic training structures.

The 366th Engineering Aviation Battalion (Separate), known as a SCARWAF (Special Category Army Personnel With the Air Force) unit, was activated during the early 1950s to support United States Air Force operations. SCARWAF units were unique Army engineer units assigned to construct, repair, and maintain airfields and related facilities, primarily for the USAF during the Korean War and Cold War period. The 366th was comprised of Army engineers trained to rapidly build and maintain runways, hangars, and other aviation infrastructure, often under challenging conditions and sometimes near combat zones. Their contributions were vital in enabling the rapid deployment and sustained operations of American air power in critical theaters of operation.