U.S. Air Force

The 7th Transportation Squadron, based at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, has played a crucial role in supporting the operational readiness of the United States Air Force. Established to provide comprehensive logistical and transportation support, the unit manages the movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies to ensure mission success at home and abroad. Throughout its history, the 7th Transportation Squadron has supported numerous deployments, humanitarian missions, and large-scale exercises, showcasing adaptability and commitment to excellence. Its efforts remain vital in sustaining the global mobility and rapid response capabilities of the 7th Bomb Wing and the wider Air Force community.

The 7th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (7th TRS) has a distinguished history within the United States Air Force. Originally constituted during World War II, the unit was activated to provide crucial aerial reconnaissance in support of Allied operations. Throughout its service, the 7th TRS has operated a variety of aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang and RF-84 Thunderflash, adapting to the evolving needs of tactical reconnaissance. The squadron played significant roles in both European and later Cold War theaters, gathering vital intelligence that informed strategic and tactical decisions.

The 7th Transportation Battalion, Field Artillery (7TH TSBN FA), is a unit aligned under the 120th Infantry Brigade at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. Historically, the 120th Infantry Brigade has played a key role in training and mobilization operations for the U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard units. The 7TH TSBN FA provides essential logistical and transportation support, enabling the rapid deployment and sustainment of artillery and infantry forces. At Fort Chaffee, the unit has participated in numerous training exercises and mobilization missions, contributing to the brigade's readiness and operational effectiveness. Over the years, the 7TH TSBN FA has built a reputation for professionalism and dedication in support of Army training and operations.

The 7th Operations Support Squadron (7th OSS) is a key component of the 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, providing essential operational support such as mission planning, intelligence, and airfield management. The 28th Bomb Squadron (28th BS), also stationed at Dyess AFB, traces its lineage back to World War I and has served with distinction in multiple conflicts, including World War II, the Cold War, and modern operations. Today, the 28th BS operates the B-1B Lancer, specializing in long-range conventional strike missions. Together, the 7th OSS and 28th BS play a critical role in ensuring the combat readiness and global reach of the U.S. Air Force’s strategic bomber force.

The 801st Combat Support Group (CSG) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. Activated in July 1972, the 801st CSG provided critical base support functions, ensuring operational readiness and efficient support for assigned missile wings and tenant units. The group managed essential services such as security, civil engineering, supply, transportation, and personnel support. The 801st CSG was inactivated in October 1992 as part of a broader USAF reorganization, with its duties assumed by other base support elements.

The 802nd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for providing aircraft maintenance and support operations. Activated during the Cold War, the 802nd OMS was assigned to the 802nd Air Division at Smoky Hill Air Force Base (later Schilling Air Force Base), Kansas. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the mission readiness of B-47 Stratojet bombers and KC-97 Stratofreighter tankers, supporting Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrent posture throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. The unit was inactivated in 1965 following the phaseout of the B-47 and the realignment of Air Force maintenance organizations.

The 809th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W) was a United States Air Force radar unit activated during the early years of the Cold War. Established in 1951, its primary mission was to provide airspace surveillance and early warning of potential aerial threats as part of the continental air defense network. The squadron operated radar sites in the United States, contributing to the detection and tracking of aircraft approaching North American airspace. The unit was eventually inactivated in 1963 as advancements in radar technology and changes in air defense strategy led to the consolidation and reorganization of air defense assets.

The 815th Combat Defense Squadron was an Air Force security unit active during the Cold War era. Stationed at Forbes Air Force Base, Kansas, the squadron was tasked with providing base security, law enforcement, and protection of critical Air Force assets, particularly Strategic Air Command resources. The unit played a key role in safeguarding nuclear-capable aircraft and missile systems amid heightened tensions with the Soviet Union. The 815th was eventually inactivated as part of broader Air Force reorganizations and the evolving nature of base defense requirements.

The 828th Medical Group is a United States Air Force medical unit that has served as a key provider of healthcare and medical readiness support. Established to deliver comprehensive medical, dental, and preventive care, the group has supported both peacetime and contingency operations. Over its history, the 828th Medical Group has played a vital role in maintaining the health and readiness of Air Force personnel, ensuring rapid deployment capabilities. Its dedicated staff uphold a tradition of excellence in patient care, contributing to the mission success of the United States Air Force.

The 82nd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was an integral support unit stationed at Williams Air Force Base, Arizona. Throughout its tenure, the 82nd OMS provided critical aircraft maintenance and ground support for the training mission of the base, primarily servicing T-37 and T-38 trainer aircraft. The squadron played a vital role in ensuring high readiness rates, enabling the 82nd Flying Training Wing to effectively produce new pilots for the United States Air Force. The 82nd OMS continued its support operations until Williams AFB was closed in 1993 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.

The 836th Supply Squadron was activated during the Cold War era as part of the United States Air Force’s logistical support structure. Tasked with ensuring the steady flow of essential materials and equipment, the unit played a key role in supporting flying operations at its host base. Throughout its history, the 836th Supply Squadron provided critical supply chain management, from fuel and spare parts to munitions, particularly during periods of heightened readiness. The squadron’s commitment to efficiency and reliability helped maintain the operational effectiveness of the Air Force’s tactical and strategic missions until its inactivation or realignment under subsequent organizational changes.

The 842nd Mission Support Squadron was activated in 1994 as part of the U.S. Air Force's ongoing effort to streamline support operations for combat and contingency units. Stationed at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, the squadron provided essential services including personnel management, logistics, communications, and civil engineering support. Throughout its history, the 842nd played a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of deployed airmen during overseas operations, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The unit earned multiple commendations for its exemplary support capabilities before being inactivated in 2012 as part of broader Air Force restructuring efforts.

The 84th Air Transport Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force that played a significant role during the mid-20th century. Initially activated during World War II, the squadron was assigned to the Air Transport Command and later became part of the Military Air Transport Service (MATS). The squadron was responsible for providing long-range airlift capabilities, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to various theaters of operation around the globe. The 84th Air Transport Squadron was eventually inactivated as the Air Force reorganized its airlift and transport units in the postwar era.

The 853rd Medical Group was a United States Air Force medical unit, first activated in the late 1950s to provide comprehensive medical support to its parent wing. Stationed primarily at locations such as Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana, the group was responsible for the healthcare of military personnel, dependents, and civilian staff. Throughout its service, the 853rd Medical Group played a vital role in supporting Cold War operations, ensuring the readiness and well-being of airmen assigned to strategic missile commands. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and restructuring within the Air Force Medical Service.

The 862nd Engineer Aviation Battalion (E.A.B.) was a United States Army Air Forces unit active during and shortly after World War II. In the post-war years, the battalion was stationed at Landstuhl Air Base, Germany, where it played a crucial role in the construction and development of the base’s runways, infrastructure, and support facilities. Their engineering expertise helped transform Landstuhl into a key logistical and operational hub for U.S. and NATO air forces during the early stages of the Cold War. The efforts of the 862nd E.A.B. at Landstuhl contributed significantly to the establishment of a lasting American presence in Europe.

The 865th Radar Squadron was an Air Defense Command unit of the United States Air Force, activated in 1955 during the height of the Cold War. Stationed at Lompoc Air Force Station in California, its primary mission was to operate radar systems for the detection, tracking, and identification of potential airborne threats approaching the U.S. west coast. The squadron played a key role in the continental air defense network, contributing to the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system that coordinated responses to possible Soviet bomber incursions. The 865th Radar Squadron was inactivated in 1968 as advancements in technology and shifts in defense priorities led to a reorganization of America's air defense infrastructure.

The 866th Radar Squadron was an Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era as part of the United States’ continental air defense network. Established in 1955, the squadron was stationed at Langdon Air Force Station in North Dakota, where it operated radar systems to detect and track potential airborne threats. Its primary mission was to provide early warning and ground-controlled interception guidance to defend North American airspace from Soviet bombers. The 866th Radar Squadron remained operational until its inactivation in 1979, following advancements in radar technology and changes in national defense priorities.

The 88th Aerial Port Squadron (88 APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, specializing in air terminal operations and logistics. Activated in the mid-20th century, the squadron has supported numerous airlift missions, ensuring the rapid movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies worldwide. Throughout its history, the 88th APS has participated in major operations and contingencies, including humanitarian relief and combat support missions. The unit continues to play a vital role in sustaining Air Force mobility and global reach capabilities.

The 8th Radio Relay Squadron was a United States Air Force communications unit activated in the early years of the Cold War. Established in the late 1940s, its primary mission was to provide long-range radio relay and communications support for U.S. Air Force operations, particularly in the European and Mediterranean theaters. The squadron played a crucial role in maintaining secure and reliable communications between dispersed air bases and command centers during a period of rapid technological development and geopolitical tension. The unit was eventually inactivated as communications technology advanced and satellite systems replaced traditional radio relay methods.

The **8th Wing**, known as the "Wolf Pack," is a United States Air Force unit stationed at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea. Activated in 1948, the wing has a storied history, including distinguished service during the Korean War, where it conducted tactical fighter operations. At Kunsan AB, the 8th Wing's mission focuses on maintaining combat readiness and deterring aggression on the Korean Peninsula. The **Wing Staff Squadron (WSS)** supports the wing’s leadership and operations, ensuring the seamless coordination of base functions and mission success in defense of South Korea.

**9001st Air Refueling Squadron (ARS) Military History:** The 9001st Air Refueling Squadron (ARS) was established in the early years of the Cold War to support the expanding global reach of U.S. Air Force bomber and reconnaissance missions. Operating primarily with KC-135 Stratotankers, the unit provided critical aerial refueling capabilities that enabled strategic aircraft to extend their range and maintain a persistent presence worldwide. The squadron participated in numerous exercises and real-world operations, bolstering deterrence and rapid response during periods of heightened tension. Over its operational tenure, the 9001 ARS earned a reputation for excellence in air mobility, before its eventual inactivation as part of broader restructuring within the Air Force's refueling assets.

The 901st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (901st SOAMXS) is a pivotal unit within the United States Air Force, specializing in the maintenance and support of special operations aircraft. Established to provide reliable, rapid-turnaround maintenance for platforms such as the AC-130, MC-130, and CV-22 Osprey, the 901st ensures mission readiness for U.S. Special Operations Command missions worldwide. The squadron has supported numerous critical operations, including global counterterrorism efforts and humanitarian missions, by sustaining aircraft in austere and high-tempo environments. Their expertise and dedication have earned the 901st SOAMXS multiple unit commendations for excellence in maintenance and operational support.

The 908th Radar Squadron was an Air Defense Command unit assigned to Dobbins Air Force Base, Georgia. Activated on 1 February 1956, the squadron operated radar equipment as part of the United States' continental air defense network during the Cold War. Its primary mission was to detect, track, and identify aircraft, providing early warning and ground-controlled interception capabilities against potential air threats. The squadron was inactivated on 1 December 1969 as advances in technology and changes in defense strategy led to the consolidation of radar operations.

The 916th Security Squadron is a United States Air Force unit primarily tasked with providing security and law enforcement services for the 916th Air Refueling Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. Activated as part of the Air Force Reserve Command, the squadron is responsible for protecting personnel, aircraft, and resources, ensuring the wing’s readiness for global air refueling missions. Over the years, the 916th Security Squadron has supported deployments both domestically and overseas, adapting to evolving security challenges and force protection needs. The unit regularly participates in joint exercises, contributing to the overall mission of maintaining base and operational security for the Air Force Reserve.