U.S. Air Force

Offutt Air Force Base, located near Omaha, Nebraska, has played a pivotal role in U.S. military history since its establishment in 1918 as Fort Crook. Transformed into an airfield in the 1920s, it became the site of the Martin Bomber Plant during World War II, where the famous Enola Gay and Bockscar B-29 bombers were built. In 1948, Offutt AFB became the headquarters of Strategic Air Command (SAC), the nerve center for America’s strategic nuclear deterrent throughout the Cold War. Today, Offutt serves as the headquarters for U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), maintaining its legacy as a central hub for global command and control operations.

The 109th Military Intelligence Group was constituted in the United States Army on 1 March 1966, during the height of the Vietnam War. Its primary mission was to provide counterintelligence and security support to U.S. Army forces, with a focus on safeguarding sensitive information and operations. The unit was stationed at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and played a key role in intelligence operations within the continental United States. The 109th MI Group was inactivated on 21 January 1973 as part of a broader postwar reorganization of Army intelligence assets.

The 116th Support Squadron was established in the mid-20th century as a logistics and support element within the 116th Brigade. Initially activated to provide supply, maintenance, and transportation services, the squadron played a vital role during major training exercises and overseas deployments, including operations in support of both humanitarian missions and combat operations. Throughout its history, the 116th Support Squadron has consistently demonstrated adaptability and excellence, earning several unit commendations for its service. Today, the squadron continues to provide critical sustainment capabilities, ensuring operational readiness for its parent unit.

The 121st Air Refueling Wing (121 ARW) is a unit of the Ohio Air National Guard, based at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio. Originally established in 1942 as the 357th Fighter Group, the unit saw combat in Europe during World War II, achieving distinction in aerial combat. After several redesignations, the wing transitioned to air refueling missions in the 1960s, flying the KC-135 Stratotanker. Today, the 121st ARW provides vital aerial refueling support for U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide, playing a key role in both peacetime and contingency operations.

The 132nd Fighter-Bomber Wing was a unit of the United States Air Force, originally established as the 132nd Fighter Wing in 1947 and based in Des Moines, Iowa. During the Korean War, it was federalized and redesignated as the 132nd Fighter-Bomber Wing, tasked with training and supporting fighter-bomber operations. The wing operated aircraft such as the F-51 Mustang and later transitioned to jet fighters, including the F-84 Thunderjet. After its active service in the early 1950s, the unit returned to state control and continued its legacy as part of the Iowa Air National Guard, eventually becoming the 132nd Wing with evolving missions over the decades.

The 1881st Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing communications and information systems support. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a critical role in ensuring reliable and secure communications for command and control operations. It was stationed at George Air Force Base, California, where it supported both base operations and deployed missions. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of post-Cold War restructuring and technological advancements within the Air Force communications community.

The 1972nd Communications Squadron was an Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era, primarily tasked with providing secure and reliable communications support for U.S. Air Force operations. Stationed at various strategic locations, the squadron played a key role in maintaining command and control links between command centers and deployed forces. Throughout its service, the 1972nd implemented and maintained advanced communication systems, supporting both peacetime operations and heightened alert periods. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and technological advancements in military communications.

The 2034th Communications Squadron was constituted during the early Cold War era to support expanding United States Air Force operations. Tasked with providing essential communications infrastructure, the squadron ensured secure and reliable transmission of information between command units and deployed forces. Throughout its active years, the 2034th played a key role in maintaining command and control readiness, particularly during tense periods of the late 20th century. The squadron’s legacy is marked by its adaptability and technical expertise, contributing significantly to mission success until its inactivation.

The 305th Civil Engineer Squadron is a unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Activated to support the 305th Air Mobility Wing, the squadron is responsible for base infrastructure, emergency management, and rapid airfield repair. Over the years, its engineers have deployed worldwide, supporting both combat operations and humanitarian missions. The 305th CES provides critical support for air mobility operations, ensuring the base’s facilities and runways remain mission-ready at all times.

The 44th Missile Maintenance Squadron (44th MMS) was a key unit within the United States Air Force, primarily associated with the maintenance and support of the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) systems. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, and operated under the 44th Missile Wing. Its mission centered on ensuring the operational readiness, security, and reliability of the nation’s nuclear deterrent force. The 44th MMS played a vital role in maintaining America’s strategic missile capability until its inactivation following the end of the Cold War and the deactivation of the Minuteman missile complex at Ellsworth AFB in the 1990s.

The 479th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) was activated by the United States Air Force in 1952 at George Air Force Base, California. Initially equipped with F-51 Mustangs and later transitioning to F-86 Sabres and F-100 Super Sabres, the wing played a key role in developing tactical fighter operations during the early Cold War. In the 1960s, the 479th TFW became one of the first units to receive the F-104 Starfighter, deploying to Europe and training pilots for NATO allies. The wing was inactivated in 1971 as part of a broader realignment of Air Force units and resources.

The 60th Service Squadron, part of the Military Airlift Command (MAC), traces its origins to the early years of the United States Air Force. Activated during World War II, the unit played a crucial role in providing logistical and maintenance support to air operations, ensuring aircraft readiness for combat and transport missions. Over the decades, the 60th Service Squadron adapted to evolving military needs, supporting key operations during the Cold War and beyond. Its dedication to efficient service and support helped maintain the operational effectiveness of MAC’s global airlift missions until its eventual inactivation or reorganization.

The 63rd Field Maintenance Squadron (63rd FMS) was a key support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to the 63rd Military Airlift Wing at Norton Air Force Base, California. Established during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for maintaining, repairing, and ensuring the operational readiness of the wing's aircraft, which included the C-141 Starlifter. Throughout its service, the 63rd FMS played a vital role in supporting global airlift missions, humanitarian relief, and strategic deployments. The unit’s expertise contributed significantly to the Air Force’s ability to project power and provide rapid mobility worldwide until its inactivation in the 1990s with the closure of Norton AFB.

The 729th Tactical Control Squadron (729th TCS) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War to provide radar surveillance and air control operations. Established in the 1950s, the squadron played a crucial role in directing interceptor aircraft and maintaining airspace security for North American air defense. Throughout its service, the 729th TCS was stationed at various locations, including Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. The unit was eventually inactivated as advancements in technology and changes in defense priorities reduced the need for ground-based tactical control squadrons.

The Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Depot (AIMD) at NAS Lemoore was established to provide vital intermediate-level maintenance, repair, and support for naval aviation units based at the air station. Since its inception in the 1960s alongside the commissioning of NAS Lemoore, AIMD has played a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of carrier-based aircraft such as the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet. The unit specializes in the repair of avionics, engines, hydraulics, and other crucial aircraft components, serving both home-based and deployed squadrons. Throughout its history, AIMD NAS Lemoore has adapted to technological advancements, supporting the evolving needs of the Navy’s air wing and contributing to successful deployments worldwide.

Homestead Air Force Base (AFB), located in southern Florida, was originally established in 1942 as Homestead Army Air Field to support World War II efforts, primarily as a training and transit base for bombers and fighters. After a period of deactivation, it was reactivated during the Cold War era and became a Strategic Air Command base, hosting bomber and later fighter units to support U.S. defense and deterrence missions. The base played a significant role during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, serving as a critical staging and support location for U.S. forces. In 1992, Homestead AFB suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Andrew, leading to its realignment and subsequent transition to Homestead Air Reserve Base, where it continues to support Air Force Reserve and joint operations.

Search and Rescue (SAR) units have played a vital role in military operations since World War II, when dedicated teams were first established to recover downed airmen behind enemy lines. Over the decades, SAR capabilities expanded to include specialized aircraft, helicopters, and trained personnel able to operate in diverse environments such as sea, mountains, and combat zones. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, SAR missions became increasingly sophisticated, employing tactics like Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) to extract personnel under fire. Today, military SAR units remain essential for saving lives, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting both peacetime and wartime operations around the globe.

The **143rd Airlift Wing** is a unit of the Rhode Island Air National Guard, headquartered at Quonset Air National Guard Base in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. Established in 1968, the unit originally flew C-119 Flying Boxcars and later transitioned to C-130 Hercules aircraft, specializing in tactical airlift missions. Over the decades, the 143rd has supported numerous operations, including humanitarian relief efforts, disaster response, and overseas deployments in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The wing continues to play a vital role in national defense and state emergency response, renowned for its professionalism and operational excellence.

The 171st Air Refueling Wing (ARW), based at Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, is a unit of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. Established in 1961, the wing originally flew fighter aircraft before transitioning to air refueling operations. Over the decades, the 171st ARW has operated various tanker aircraft, including the KC-135 Stratotanker, providing critical aerial refueling support to both U.S. and allied air forces worldwide. The wing has played a significant role in numerous operations, such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating its enduring commitment to global mobility and airpower projection.

The 177th Fighter Wing is a unit of the New Jersey Air National Guard, stationed at Atlantic City Air National Guard Base, New Jersey. Established in 1958, its origins trace back to earlier fighter squadrons tasked with air defense missions during the Cold War. Over the decades, the 177th has operated various aircraft, including the F-106 Delta Dart and currently the F-16 Fighting Falcon, reflecting its evolving mission of homeland defense and federal taskings. The wing has supported both domestic operations, such as disaster relief, and overseas deployments, participating in Operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, and other missions worldwide.

The 1945th Communications Group was a United States Air Force unit established to provide vital communications and information systems support. Activated during the Cold War era, it played a crucial role in ensuring secure and reliable communication links for command and control operations. The group was stationed at a variety of locations, including bases in the United States and overseas, supporting both tactical and strategic missions. Over the years, the 1945th adapted to technological advancements before being inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force communications restructuring efforts.

The 1st Security Police Squadron (1st SPS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for base security and law enforcement, typically assigned to protect key installations and personnel. Originally activated during the Cold War, the 1st SPS played a crucial role in safeguarding air bases, particularly those hosting strategic bombers or fighter units. The squadron's duties included perimeter defense, response to security threats, and the management of access control points. Throughout its service, the 1st SPS adapted to evolving threats, participating in exercises and real-world contingencies both at home and abroad before being re-designated or inactivated as part of Air Force organizational changes.

The 1st Tactical Fighter Wing (1st TFW) was established in 1947 and is one of the United States Air Force’s oldest and most distinguished fighter units. Originally activated as the 1st Fighter Wing, it played a key role during the Cold War, providing air defense and later transitioning to tactical fighter missions. The wing has operated a range of advanced aircraft, including the F-15 Eagle, and has participated in major operations such as Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Today, redesignated as the 1st Fighter Wing, it is based at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, and is a premier F-22 Raptor unit.

The 24th Air Defense Command was a United States Air Force unit responsible for the air defense of a designated region during the Cold War. Activated in 1966, it was assigned to the Aerospace Defense Command and headquartered at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. The unit oversaw radar squadrons, interceptor aircraft, and missile systems tasked with detecting and countering potential aerial threats. The 24th Air Defense Command was inactivated in 1969 as part of a broader reorganization of continental air defense forces.