U.S. Air Force

The 596th Air Force Band, also known as the United States Air Force Band of the West Coast, was originally activated during World War II to provide musical support and boost morale among service members. Stationed at various locations over its history, the band performed at military ceremonies, official functions, and public events, representing the Air Force and strengthening ties with local communities. Renowned for its versatility, the 596th Air Force Band played a wide repertoire, from marches to contemporary music, adapting to the needs of the Air Force and its audiences. Over the decades, the band became a symbol of pride and professionalism before its inactivation in the late 20th century as part of Air Force restructuring efforts.

The 59th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was initially activated in 1966 by the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The unit was equipped with the McDonnell F-4 Phantom II and tasked with training aircrews for tactical fighter operations during the Vietnam War era. The 59th TFW played a significant role in preparing pilots and support personnel for overseas deployments, contributing to the Air Force’s combat readiness throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s. The wing was inactivated in 1970 as the Air Force reorganized its tactical units following the drawdown of the Vietnam conflict.

The 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), originally activated in 1961 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is one of the U.S. Army’s most storied Special Forces units. The Group gained distinction during the Vietnam War, conducting unconventional warfare, counterinsurgency, and direct action missions. Over the decades, the 5th SFG(A) played key roles in operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, often spearheading U.S. efforts in the Middle East. Today, the 5th Special Forces Group is headquartered at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and continues to specialize in missions across the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

The 6001st Aerospace Support Squadron was a United States Air Force unit primarily based at Yokota Air Base, Japan, during the early years of the Cold War. Activated in the late 1950s, the squadron provided vital logistical, technical, and operational support for aerospace missions and units stationed in the Asia-Pacific region. Its responsibilities included maintenance of aerospace equipment, ground support for aircraft, and coordination of supply chains essential to U.S. Air Force operations in the Far East. The 6001st operated under various command structures before its eventual inactivation as part of broader USAF organizational changes in the 1960s.

The 6023d Radar Evaluation Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) during the Cold War. Activated in the late 1950s, the squadron was responsible for evaluating and improving the performance of radar sites and air defense systems throughout the Pacific region, including Japan and other allied territories. The unit conducted technical inspections, provided training, and ensured the operational readiness of radar installations critical for early warning and airspace control. The 6023d Radar Evaluation Squadron played a vital role in maintaining the effectiveness of U.S. and allied air defense networks during a period of heightened global tensions.

The 608th Combat Communications Squadron (608th CCS) was a United States Air Force unit specializing in providing deployable communications and information systems support for combat operations. Activated in the mid-20th century, the unit played a crucial role in ensuring command and control capabilities during both peacetime exercises and wartime contingencies. Throughout its history, the 608th CCS supported numerous operations, both stateside and abroad, delivering secure voice, data, and network services to forward-deployed forces. The squadron’s expertise in rapid deployment and technical proficiency made it an essential asset to the Air Force’s global mission before its eventual inactivation.

The 6091st Recon Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Korean War to conduct aerial reconnaissance missions. Established in 1950, the squadron operated primarily out of bases in Japan and South Korea, flying unarmed reconnaissance aircraft over enemy territory to gather vital intelligence on North Korean and Chinese movements. The unit's operations played a crucial role in providing real-time battlefield information for United Nations forces, often at great risk to its crews. The 6091st Recon Squadron was inactivated following the end of major hostilities, but its contributions were instrumental in shaping air reconnaissance tactics for future conflicts.

The 609th Military Airlift Command Squadron (609th MAC Sq) was a unit of the United States Air Force primarily active during the Cold War era. Established to provide essential airlift and logistical support, the squadron operated a variety of transport aircraft to facilitate the movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies to forward-deployed bases and operational theaters. The 609th MAC Sq played a vital role in supporting U.S. and allied operations, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, by ensuring rapid and reliable air mobility. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader post-Cold War restructuring within the Air Force’s airlift and support commands.

The 6139th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established during the early years of the Cold War. Activated in the 1950s, the squadron was primarily stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea, where it played a critical role in maintaining secure and reliable communications for U.S. and allied forces in the region. The unit supported command and control operations, ensuring the rapid relay of information vital to air defense and operational readiness on the Korean Peninsula. The 6139th Communications Squadron remained active until its inactivation in the early 1970s, as part of a broader reorganization and modernization of Air Force communications units.

617th Military Airlift Support Squadron (MASS), based at Da Nang Air Base in South Vietnam, was a United States Air Force unit active during the Vietnam War. Established in the late 1960s, the 617 MASS provided critical ground support and logistical coordination for Military Airlift Command (MAC) aircraft operating in the combat zone. The squadron managed cargo, personnel movements, and aircraft servicing to ensure rapid and efficient airlift operations supporting U.S. and allied forces. The 617 MASS played a vital role in sustaining air mobility in one of the most active areas of the conflict until the drawdown of U.S. forces in the early 1970s.

The 618th Air Operations Center (AOC), previously known as the Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC), is a key unit of the United States Air Force, headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. Established in 1992, the unit serves as the operational arm of Air Mobility Command, orchestrating global air mobility missions including airlift, aerial refueling, and aeromedical evacuation. The 618th AOC provides 24/7 command and control to ensure rapid, flexible support for U.S. military and humanitarian missions worldwide. Over its history, the unit has played a vital role in major operations such as Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and disaster relief efforts across the globe.

The 619th Military Airlift Wing (619 MAW) was a unit of the United States Air Force established during the Cold War to provide strategic airlift capabilities. Activated in the late 20th century, the wing operated primarily out of Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts, utilizing aircraft such as the C-141 Starlifter to conduct global airlift missions supporting military operations and humanitarian relief. The 619 MAW played a key role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies during numerous exercises and real-world contingencies. The unit was inactivated as part of broader Air Force restructuring efforts in the early 1990s.

The 62nd Troop Carrier Squadron (62 TCS) was activated in 1942 as part of the United States Army Air Forces. During World War II, the unit played a vital role in airborne operations, including the invasion of Sicily, the Normandy landings (D-Day), and the airborne assault on Southern France, providing transport and resupply for Allied forces. Flying C-47 Skytrain aircraft, the 62 TCS was recognized for its outstanding performance in delivering paratroopers, towing gliders, and evacuating wounded personnel. After the war, the squadron was inactivated, but its legacy endures as a distinguished airborne transport unit.

The 629th Tactical Fighter Wing was established in 1967 as part of the United States Air Force's rapid expansion during the Vietnam War. Initially based at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, the wing operated F-4 Phantom II aircraft, conducting interdiction and close air support missions throughout Southeast Asia. The unit earned several commendations for its effectiveness in disrupting enemy supply lines along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Vietnam, the 629th was inactivated in 1973, leaving a legacy of valor and operational excellence.

The 62nd Military Police Company (62MP CO.) was originally stationed at Carswell Air Force Base, Texas, where it provided law enforcement and security functions for the Strategic Air Command. In 1965, the unit was reassigned to Ryukyu Armed Forces Police (RAFP), Okinawa, as part of the U.S. military buildup during the Vietnam War. While in Okinawa from 1965 to 1966, the 62MP CO. was responsible for maintaining order and security on American installations and supporting military operations in the Pacific theater. The unit played a vital role in ensuring the safety of personnel and assets in a strategically critical region during a time of heightened tensions.

The 644th Area Support Group was a United States Army Reserve unit that provided logistical and base support operations. Activated during the late 20th century, the unit was headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its mission included supply, transportation, and facilities management for Army units within its area of responsibility. The 644th supported numerous training exercises and mobilizations, especially during Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, before eventually being inactivated as part of Army Reserve restructuring.

The 6461st Tactical Control Squadron (TCS) was a United States Air Force unit that played a crucial role in air operations during the Vietnam War. Activated in the mid-1960s, the squadron specialized in providing tactical air control and radar services to coordinate air strikes and manage air traffic in combat zones. The 6461 TCS operated primarily from bases in Southeast Asia, utilizing mobile radar and communications equipment to support both ground and air forces. Its mission contributed significantly to the effectiveness and safety of U.S. and allied air operations before the unit's eventual inactivation as the conflict wound down.

The **64th Communications Squadron** was a United States Air Force unit stationed in England, primarily active during the Cold War period. Tasked with providing robust communications support, the squadron facilitated secure, reliable links between USAF bases, NATO allies, and command structures throughout the United Kingdom. The unit played a critical role in maintaining operational readiness and interoperability, especially during heightened tensions and crisis periods in Europe. Through its technical expertise and commitment, the 64th Communications Squadron contributed significantly to the effectiveness of Allied air operations and the overall deterrence posture in the region.

The 64th Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team (64th WMD-CST) is a specialized unit of the National Guard, established to support civil authorities in responding to incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. Activated in the 21st century, the unit is trained to rapidly deploy and assess potential WMD events, identify hazardous agents or substances, and advise on response measures. The 64th WMD-CST conducts regular training and exercises with local, state, and federal partners to maintain readiness for a variety of emergency scenarios. Its expertise and rapid response capabilities make it a critical asset in homeland defense and disaster response operations.

The 6513th Flight Test Squadron (FTS) was a United States Air Force unit based at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Activated in 1971, the squadron was primarily responsible for conducting flight tests of foreign aircraft, including those acquired through clandestine means, as part of the United States’ evaluation of potential adversary capabilities during the Cold War. Often operating under high security, the 6513th FTS contributed significantly to the development of American tactics and understanding of Soviet-designed aircraft. In 1992, the unit was redesignated as the 413th Flight Test Squadron, continuing its legacy of advanced flight testing.

The 6550th Security Police Squadron (6550 SPS) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Air Force Systems Command at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida. Activated in the 1960s, the squadron was responsible for providing law enforcement and security services for the base, which played a key role in missile testing and space launch operations. The 6550 SPS safeguarded critical assets, personnel, and facilities, supporting both Air Force and NASA missions during the height of the Cold War and the space race. The unit was eventually redesignated as the 45th Security Police Squadron as part of Air Force organizational changes in the early 1990s.

The 655th Munitions Maintenance Squadron (655th MMS) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era. Stationed in West Germany, the squadron was primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and security of special weapons, including nuclear munitions, in support of NATO forces. The 655th MMS played a crucial role in the deterrence strategy by ensuring that munitions were always ready and operational for rapid deployment if needed. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of the post-Cold War drawdown and realignment of U.S. forces in Europe.

The 6571st Aeronautical Research Laboratory (ARL) was a United States Air Force unit activated in the late 1950s at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Tasked primarily with advancing aerospace technology, the 6571st ARL supported experimental flight testing, research, and development of cutting-edge aircraft systems during the height of the Cold War. Its personnel worked closely with other military and civilian agencies, contributing to significant breakthroughs in aeronautics and propulsion. The unit played a crucial role in supporting the Air Force Flight Test Center before its eventual redesignation and consolidation into larger research organizations as technology advanced.

The **6595th Test and Evaluation Group (TEG)** was a unit of the United States Air Force, established in the early 1960s under the Air Force Systems Command. Stationed at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, its primary mission was to support and conduct research, development, and operational testing for the Air Force’s satellite and missile tracking systems, particularly in support of the Air Force Satellite Control Facility. The unit played a crucial role during the Cold War, contributing to U.S. space and missile operations by providing telemetry, tracking, and command support for various space launches and orbital activities. The 6595th TEG was inactivated in the late 1980s as part of broader Air Force restructuring and advancements in space tracking technology.