U.S. Air Force

The 55th Operations Support Squadron (55th OSS) is a vital unit within the 55th Wing, based at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. Activated in 1991, the squadron provides essential operational support, including mission planning, intelligence, aircrew training, and weather services, to the wing’s reconnaissance and electronic warfare missions. The 55th OSS plays a critical role in supporting the U.S. Air Force’s global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations, especially those involving the renowned RC-135 fleet. Over the years, the unit has distinguished itself through excellence in supporting both peacetime and contingency operations worldwide.

The 567th Security Police Operations Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for base security, law enforcement, and force protection. Activated during the height of the Cold War, the squadron played a crucial role in safeguarding Strategic Air Command assets, including nuclear weapons and bomber aircraft. Throughout its service, the 567th participated in numerous security exercises and responded to heightened threat levels, ensuring the safety of both personnel and critical infrastructure. The unit's legacy is marked by its dedication to vigilance, discipline, and the defense of vital Air Force resources.

The 56th Transportation Squadron is a support unit assigned to Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, under the 56th Mission Support Group. Its origins trace back to earlier transportation units activated during World War II, providing vital logistical support for air operations. At Luke AFB, the 56th Transportation Squadron manages vehicle operations, cargo movement, and passenger transport, ensuring the 56th Fighter Wing’s mission readiness. Over the years, the unit has adapted to evolving Air Force needs, supporting both training and operational deployments for fighter pilots and personnel.

The 57th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (57th ARRS) was a United States Air Force unit established in the 1950s. Primarily tasked with search and rescue operations, the squadron played a significant role during the Cold War, particularly with missions based out of Keflavik Air Base, Iceland. The 57th ARRS operated various aircraft including the HH-3E "Jolly Green Giant" helicopters and HC-130 aircraft, providing vital support for downed aircrews and other emergencies in the North Atlantic region. The squadron was inactivated in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War realignments within the Air Force.

The 580th Air Resupply Squadron was a United States Air Force special operations unit activated in 1951 during the early years of the Cold War. Initially assigned to Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, the squadron was tasked with unconventional warfare missions, including psychological operations, aerial resupply, and support for covert activities. During the Korean War, the 580th deployed to Wheelus Air Base, Libya, where it provided critical support for special operations in the Mediterranean and Middle East regions. The unit was inactivated in 1956 as part of a broader reorganization of USAF special operations forces.

The 581st Air Force Band was constituted during World War II as part of the U.S. Army Air Forces, providing musical support, morale, and ceremonial functions for military personnel. Stationed at various bases throughout its service, the band played a key role in maintaining troop spirits and participating in both military and public events. After the war, the 581st continued to serve during the early years of the U.S. Air Force, adapting its repertoire to fit changing times and missions. The band was eventually inactivated as part of postwar reorganization, but its legacy remains as part of the proud tradition of Air Force bands.

The 581st Air Resupply and Communication Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1951 during the Korean War. Assigned to conduct psychological operations, covert resupply, and support for unconventional warfare, the squadron operated from bases in Japan and Okinawa. Utilizing aircraft such as the B-29 Superfortress and C-119 Flying Boxcar, the 581st executed a variety of missions including leaflet drops, agent insertions, and supply drops behind enemy lines. The unit remained active until 1956, playing a significant role in special operations and psychological warfare efforts in the Far East during the early Cold War.

The 587th Missile Maintenance Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War to support the nation’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) fleet. Established in the early 1960s, the squadron was primarily responsible for the maintenance, repair, and readiness of Titan II missile systems at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. Its personnel ensured the operational reliability of nuclear deterrent forces throughout critical periods of heightened global tension. The squadron was eventually inactivated in 1986, coinciding with the decommissioning of the Titan II missile system as part of strategic arms reduction initiatives.

The 58th Combat Support Squadron (58th CSS) at Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field (AFAF), Arizona, is a support unit under the 58th Special Operations Wing. The unit provides vital logistical, engineering, and base operations support to ensure the readiness and sustainment of flying and training missions at Gila Bend AFAF. Historically, the 58th CSS has played a key role in supporting aircrew training exercises, range operations, and transient aircraft services for the Barry M. Goldwater Range. Its mission is critical to the success of Air Force training and operational readiness in the southwestern United States.

The 58th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry was organized during the American Civil War and mustered into service in April 1864. Composed primarily of recruits from eastern Massachusetts, the regiment joined the Army of the Potomac and participated in the Overland Campaign, including the battles of Spotsylvania Court House and Cold Harbor. The 58th Massachusetts also fought in the Siege of Petersburg, where it endured heavy casualties in assaults on Confederate positions. The regiment served until the end of the war, mustering out in July 1865, having contributed significantly to Union efforts in the final year of the conflict.

The 5th Tactical Air Command (5th TAC) was a U.S. Air Force unit based at Cape Charles, USA, with a primary operational focus on the Asia-Pacific region. Established during the early years of the Cold War, the 5th TAC played a crucial role in coordinating air defense and rapid response missions, often supporting allied operations and joint exercises in Asia. The unit specialized in tactical air support, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare, contributing significantly to regional security and deterrence strategies. Over time, the 5th TAC's operational expertise and strategic partnerships strengthened the United States' military presence and readiness across key areas of the Pacific Rim.

The **6005th Support Squadron (6005 Spt Sq)** was a United States Air Force unit assigned under Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) during the Vietnam War. Stationed at Tuy Hoa Air Base, Republic of Vietnam (RVN), the squadron provided essential logistical, administrative, and base support services to USAF operations in the region. Active primarily during the late 1960s and early 1970s, the 6005th played a crucial role in maintaining the operational readiness of combat and support units at Tuy Hoa. The squadron supported missions ranging from airfield maintenance to supply and personnel services until the drawdown of U.S. forces and the eventual closure of Tuy Hoa Air Base in 1971.

604 / 7502 MUNSS (Munitions Support Squadron) is a specialized unit within the NATO framework, tasked primarily with the custodianship and maintenance of U.S. nuclear munitions in Europe. Established during the Cold War, the unit plays a critical role in supporting NATO’s nuclear sharing policy, ensuring that munitions are secure, serviceable, and ready for deployment if required. Stationed at various locations over the years, it works closely with host nation air forces, providing technical expertise and operational support. The unit exemplifies the enduring U.S. commitment to NATO's collective defense and deterrence posture.

The 6045th USAF Hospital was a United States Air Force medical unit established to provide comprehensive healthcare support for personnel stationed at key bases overseas, notably in Japan during the post-World War II and Korean War periods. Activated in the late 1940s, the hospital played a critical role in treating wounded service members, supporting regional medical readiness, and conducting public health initiatives. Its staff included doctors, nurses, and medical technicians who adapted to the challenges of both peacetime and conflict operations. The 6045th USAF Hospital was eventually inactivated as part of broader USAF organizational changes and the drawdown of American forces in the region.

The 611th Aerial Port Squadron is a United States Air Force unit based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, operating under Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). Established to provide aerial port operations and logistics support, the squadron plays a critical role in the rapid movement of personnel and cargo across the vast Pacific theater. Over its history, the 611th has supported numerous humanitarian missions, contingency operations, and joint exercises, showcasing adaptability in challenging Arctic and Pacific environments. The squadron’s work ensures strategic mobility and operational readiness for U.S. and allied forces in the region.

**611th MASS OL-A** The 611th Military Airlift Support Squadron, Operating Location Alpha (611th MASS OL-A), was a geographically separated unit functioning under the 611th MASS, which itself was part of the Military Airlift Command (MAC). The unit was primarily responsible for providing airlift support, aircraft servicing, and logistical operations at a remote location in Alaska, often supporting transient MAC and Air Mobility Command (AMC) flights during the Cold War era. OL-A played a crucial role in ensuring rapid turnaround and mission readiness for strategic airlift operations, particularly in support of U.S. military activities in the Pacific and Arctic regions. Its dedicated personnel contributed to maintaining a vital link in the global airlift network before the inactivation and restructuring of MAC units in the 1990s.

**615th Tactical Airlift Squadron (615 TAC) - Short Military History:** The 615th Tactical Airlift Squadron (615 TAC) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era, primarily tasked with providing tactical airlift support. Equipped with aircraft such as the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, the squadron played a vital role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to forward areas, often operating in challenging environments. The 615 TAC participated in numerous training exercises and contingency operations, supporting both domestic and international missions. The unit's dedication to rapid deployment and logistical support contributed significantly to the U.S. Air Force's global mobility and readiness until its inactivation.

The 6175th Munitions Maintenance Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in the early 1960s during the height of the Cold War. Stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea, the squadron was primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and handling of munitions, including nuclear and conventional ordnance, in support of U.S. Air Force operations on the Korean Peninsula. The 6175th played a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and deterrent posture of U.S. forces amid regional tensions. The unit was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader USAF reorganizations in the region during the late 1960s.

The 61st Fighter Squadron, originally activated in 1941, is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force. During World War II, it served with valor in the European Theater as part of the 56th Fighter Group, flying P-47 Thunderbolts and achieving numerous aerial victories. The squadron continued its legacy through the Cold War and beyond, transitioning to jet aircraft and supporting various air defense and training missions. Today, the 61st Fighter Squadron is primarily responsible for training F-35A Lightning II pilots at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, continuing its proud tradition of excellence.

The 6255th Air Base Squadron (ABS) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War period. Stationed at Wheelus Air Base in Libya, the squadron provided essential base operating support and services for deployed U.S. forces in North Africa. The 6255th ABS played a key logistical and administrative role, supporting flying operations, maintenance, and the daily activities of personnel stationed at Wheelus. The unit remained active until the early 1970s, when U.S. operations in Libya ceased following political changes in the region.

The 631 Tactical Control Flight (631 TCF) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing tactical air control and coordination during combat operations. Activated during the Vietnam War era, the unit specialized in directing close air support and managing air traffic in forward combat zones. The 631 TCF deployed advanced communications and radar equipment to facilitate real-time coordination between ground forces and combat aircraft. Its operations greatly enhanced the effectiveness and safety of air-ground missions until its inactivation as part of broader force structure changes.

The 6314th Supply Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era to support operations in the Pacific region. Stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea, the squadron played a crucial role in providing logistical and supply support to U.S. and allied air operations on the Korean Peninsula. Its mission included the procurement, storage, and distribution of critical supplies and equipment necessary for sustained air readiness. The 6314th Supply Squadron contributed significantly to the operational effectiveness of the 314th Air Division and its successors before being inactivated as part of broader USAF organizational changes in the late 20th century.

The 6348th USAF Dispensary was a United States Air Force medical unit assigned under the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) during the Vietnam War era. Stationed primarily at Osan Air Base in South Korea, the dispensary provided comprehensive medical, dental, and preventive health services to U.S. military personnel and their dependents. Operating during a period of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, the unit played a critical role in maintaining the health and readiness of forces stationed in the region. The 6348th USAF Dispensary was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes within the Air Force medical services in the late 1970s.

The 634th Air Mobility Support Squadron (AMSS) was a United States Air Force unit activated to provide vital air mobility support in the Pacific theater. Stationed at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, the squadron played a crucial role in supporting airlift and refueling missions, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of U.S. operations across the region. The 634th AMSS specialized in aircraft maintenance, aerial port operations, and command and control functions to ensure seamless movement of personnel and cargo. In 2001, the unit was inactivated as part of an Air Mobility Command restructuring, with its mission and personnel integrated into the 36th Air Mobility Squadron.