U.S. Air Force

The 7th United States Army Field Artillery Detachment (7th USAFAD) was a unit of the U.S. Army assigned to support NATO operations during the Cold War. Activated in the late 1960s, the 7th USAFAD was stationed in West Germany, where it operated in close cooperation with Belgian forces. Its primary mission was to maintain and secure U.S. nuclear warheads for delivery by Belgian artillery units, thereby enhancing NATO’s deterrence posture in Central Europe. The detachment remained in service until the end of the Cold War, when changing strategic priorities led to its deactivation.

The 80th General Support Group, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment (HHD), US Army Support Command (USASC), was an essential logistics and support unit stationed in Da Nang, South Vietnam, during the Vietnam War. Activated to provide comprehensive logistical, administrative, and operational support, the 80th played a critical role in ensuring the effective movement of supplies, maintenance of equipment, and sustainment of American and allied forces in the I Corps Tactical Zone. The unit coordinated transportation, supply, and repair services, supporting both combat and combat support elements in the region. Their mission was crucial to the success of larger military operations, making the 80th General Support Group a backbone of US Army logistics in northern South Vietnam.

The 812th Medical Group was an essential medical unit stationed at Walker Air Force Base, New Mexico, during the Cold War era. Activated in support of the base’s Strategic Air Command mission, the group provided comprehensive healthcare and medical readiness services to military personnel and their families. The 812th Medical Group played a critical role in maintaining the health and operational effectiveness of the aircrews and support staff assigned to the base’s bomber and reconnaissance wings. Following the closure of Walker AFB in 1967, the unit was inactivated, concluding its distinguished service to the Air Force community.

The 814th Contingency Response Group (814 CSG) is a specialized U.S. Air Force unit designed to rapidly deploy and establish air mobility operations in austere environments. Activated in the early 21st century, the unit has played a crucial role in supporting both humanitarian and combat missions worldwide, often as the first on the ground to open or secure airfields. The 814 CSG is composed of airmen trained in airfield operations, security, logistics, and command and control, providing the Air Force with a flexible and agile response capability. Over the years, the unit has participated in numerous exercises and real-world operations, reinforcing its reputation for speed, adaptability, and operational excellence.

The 81st Aerial Port Squadron (81 APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, primarily responsible for aerial port operations, including cargo and passenger processing, load planning, and aircraft loading and unloading. Originally activated in 1965, the squadron has supported numerous airlift missions, both during peacetime and in contingency operations worldwide. The 81st APS has played a vital role in supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical logistical and mobility support. Stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, the squadron continues to serve as a key component of Air Force Reserve Command’s global air mobility mission.

The 821st Food Service was established during World War II to provide essential meal preparation and distribution for frontline and support troops. Originally organized in 1942, the unit played a crucial role in sustaining morale and operational effectiveness by ensuring hot and nutritious meals reached soldiers in the European and Pacific Theaters. Over the decades, the 821st adapted to new food technologies and field conditions, supporting missions in Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War. Renowned for their efficiency and dedication, the unit earned several commendations for exemplary service under challenging circumstances.

The 82d Communications Support Squadron is a unit in the United States Air Force dedicated to providing robust communications and cyber support to the 82d Training Wing at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. Established to ensure seamless command and control, the squadron has played a vital role in supporting both training operations and base-wide communications infrastructure. Over the years, the 82d CSS has adapted to advancements in information technology and cyber defense, ensuring mission readiness and operational security. Its highly trained personnel are instrumental in maintaining the flow of information critical to the Air Force’s technical training mission.

**82nd Tactical Command Flight (82nd TCF) Military History:** The 82nd Tactical Command Flight (82nd TCF) was activated during the early years of the Cold War, tasked with providing rapid aerial command and control capabilities for U.S. and allied forces. Throughout its service, the 82nd TCF participated in several key NATO exercises, honing interoperability and tactical coordination skills. In the 1990s, the unit supported operations in the Balkans, delivering critical communications and command support during humanitarian and peacekeeping missions. The 82nd TCF was eventually reorganized as part of broader force modernization efforts, with its legacy continuing in current command and control units.

The 831st Services Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for providing essential base support services, including food, lodging, fitness, and recreation, to enhance the quality of life for airmen and their families. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was assigned to the 831st Air Division stationed at George Air Force Base, California. Throughout its existence, the 831st Services Squadron played a critical role in supporting air operations by maintaining high morale and readiness among personnel. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of organizational changes and the closure of George AFB in the early 1990s.

The 83rd Air Control Squadron (83rd ACS) is a United States Air Force unit specializing in battle management and command and control operations. Established in 1943 as the 83rd Fighter Control Squadron, it has undergone several redesignations and activations throughout its history, supporting both continental and expeditionary missions. The squadron has played a vital role in providing radar surveillance, airspace management, and tactical control of aircraft for combat operations and homeland defense. Currently stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, the 83rd ACS continues to support U.S. and allied air operations with advanced command and control capabilities.

The 83rd Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was an active unit of the United States Air Force during the Cold War era. Established in 1956, the wing was initially stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, where it operated F-86 Sabres and later transitioned to F-100 Super Sabres. The 83rd TFW played a significant role in air defense and tactical fighter missions, participating in numerous training exercises and readiness operations. The wing was inactivated in 1958, with its mission and assets transferred to other units as part of USAF organizational changes.

The 858th Air Defense Group was an Air Defense Command unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated in 1955 at Hamilton Air Force Base, California. Its primary mission was to provide air defense for the San Francisco Bay Area during the early years of the Cold War, overseeing the operation and readiness of interceptor squadrons and support elements. The group was responsible for coordinating radar surveillance and directing fighter aircraft to intercept potential airborne threats. The 858th Air Defense Group was inactivated in 1959 as part of a broader reorganization of continental air defense assets.

The 85th Aerial Port Squadron (85th APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve. Established in the mid-20th century, it has played a crucial role in providing rapid global air mobility by managing the movement of cargo and personnel through aerial ports. The squadron has supported numerous operations, including deployments for humanitarian missions and combat support in conflicts such as Operations Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. Over the years, the 85th APS has earned recognition for its expertise in air transportation and its commitment to mission readiness.

The 85th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (85th FIS) was an active United States Air Force unit from World War II through the early Cold War. Initially activated in 1942, the squadron saw combat in the Mediterranean Theater, flying the P-40 Warhawk and later the P-47 Thunderbolt. After the war, it was reactivated in the 1950s as part of the Air Defense Command, operating jet interceptors like the F-86 Sabre and F-102 Delta Dagger to defend U.S. airspace during the tense early years of the Cold War. The 85th FIS was inactivated in 1960 as part of a broader realignment of air defense forces.

The 862nd Headquarters Squadron was a support unit within the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Activated in 1943, the squadron played a key role in providing administrative and logistical support to operational combat groups in the European Theater. The unit contributed to the overall effectiveness and readiness of its assigned command by managing personnel, communications, and essential services. Following the end of hostilities, the 862nd Headquarters Squadron was inactivated as part of the widespread postwar demobilization.

The 864th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Squadron) was activated in 1955 as part of the United States Air Force's effort to strengthen continental air defense during the Cold War. Stationed at Yuma Air Force Station, Arizona, the unit was tasked with operating radar systems to detect and track potential enemy aircraft approaching North America. Throughout its service, the 864th AC&W Squadron played a crucial role in the Air Defense Command’s radar network, providing early warning and interception guidance. The squadron was inactivated in 1963 as advances in technology and changes in defense strategy led to the consolidation of air defense assets.

The 868th Tactical Missile Squadron (868 TMS) was a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished service record. Originally activated as the 868th Bombardment Squadron in 1943, it earned the nickname "Snoopers" for its pioneering use of radar-equipped B-24 Liberators in night intruder and sea-search missions in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron was redesignated as the 868th Tactical Missile Squadron, operating MGM-13 Mace cruise missiles from Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, as part of the USAF's tactical nuclear deterrence in the Pacific. The unit was inactivated in 1966 as part of the phaseout of the Mace missile system.

The 86th Fighter-Bomber Wing was activated in 1948 and stationed at Landstuhl Air Base, Germany, as part of the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) during the early Cold War. The Wing's primary mission was to provide air defense and tactical fighter support for NATO forces in Western Europe, initially flying F-84 Thunderjets and later transitioning to F-86 Sabres. Throughout the 1950s, the 86th played a critical role in deterring Soviet aggression and maintaining air superiority in the region. In 1958, the unit was redesignated as the 86th Tactical Fighter Wing, reflecting its evolving mission and continued commitment to collective defense in Europe.

The 87th Electronic Warfare Aggressor Squadron (87 EWAS) is a United States Air Force unit specialized in electronic warfare training and simulation. Originally activated as the 87th Pursuit Squadron in 1942, it served with distinction in World War II and underwent several redesignations and mission changes throughout its history. Reactivated in 2019 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, the squadron's current mission is to emulate adversary electronic attack capabilities, enabling U.S. and allied forces to train against realistic electronic threats. The 87 EWAS plays a critical role in enhancing the electronic warfare readiness and survivability of combat air forces.

The 88th Communications Squadron (88 CS) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Its origins date back to earlier communications units supporting the base and its predecessor organizations, adapting through numerous reorganizations and technological advances. The 88 CS provides comprehensive cyber and communications support, including network operations, cyber defense, and voice, video, and data services to over 30,000 personnel across Wright-Patterson AFB. As a critical enabler of AFMC’s research, development, and acquisition missions, the squadron ensures secure and reliable information flow for both day-to-day operations and contingency missions.

The 8th Special Forces Group (Airborne), or 8th SFG(A), was a United States Army Special Forces unit activated in 1963 at Fort Gulick, Panama Canal Zone. Its primary mission was to conduct unconventional warfare and counterinsurgency operations, especially throughout Latin America, as part of U.S. efforts to support allied nations during the Cold War. The group played a key role in training and advising Latin American military forces, notably through the U.S. Army School of the Americas. In 1972, the 8th SFG(A) was inactivated, with many of its personnel and responsibilities transferred to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group.

The 901st Military Airlift Command (MAC) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era to provide strategic airlift capabilities. Activated in the 1960s, the 901st MAC played a crucial role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to support U.S. military operations worldwide. The unit operated various cargo aircraft, most notably the C-141 Starlifter and C-130 Hercules, ensuring rapid mobility and logistical support. Throughout its service, the 901st MAC participated in numerous humanitarian missions and contingency operations before being inactivated as part of Air Force restructuring in the late 20th century.

The 908th Airlift Wing is a United States Air Force Reserve unit based at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Established in 1963 as the 908th Troop Carrier Group, it has undergone several redesignations, becoming the 908th Tactical Airlift Group and later the 908th Airlift Wing. The unit has primarily operated the C-130 Hercules aircraft, providing tactical airlift support for personnel, equipment, and humanitarian missions worldwide. Over its history, the 908th has supported operations including Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and domestic disaster relief efforts.

The 909th Tactical Hospital was a United States Air Force Reserve medical unit stationed at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Activated in the mid-20th century, it provided crucial medical support and readiness for tactical air operations, ensuring rapid treatment and evacuation capabilities for deployed forces. The unit participated in numerous training exercises and supported both peacetime and contingency operations, often collaborating with other USAF medical and operational units. Over its years of service, the 909th contributed significantly to the preparedness and effectiveness of Air Force Reserve medical services before its eventual inactivation or reorganization.