U.S. Air Force

The 314th Combat Support Group was an integral unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated in 1954 at Sewart Air Force Base, Tennessee. Its primary mission was to provide comprehensive support to the 314th Troop Carrier Wing, including base operations, logistics, and administrative services. The group played a crucial role during the Cold War era by ensuring combat readiness and supporting airlift operations. The 314th Combat Support Group remained active until its inactivation in 1971, marking nearly two decades of dedicated service to U.S. air mobility and support missions.

The 3706th Basic Military Training Squadron (BMTS) was a key unit at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, responsible for conducting basic training for new United States Air Force recruits. Activated in the late 1940s, the 3706 BMTS played a vital role throughout the Cold War, Vietnam era, and into the modern era, shaping generations of Airmen. The squadron was known for its rigorous training curriculum, instilling Air Force values, discipline, and foundational military skills. Over the decades, the 3706 BMTS contributed significantly to the readiness and professionalism of the Air Force until its inactivation as part of a restructuring of basic training squadrons in the early 2000s.

The 438th Supply Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the post-World War II era, primarily tasked with providing vital logistical and materiel support to the 438th Airlift Wing. Stationed at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, the squadron managed the procurement, storage, and distribution of equipment and supplies necessary for the wing’s airlift missions. Throughout its service, the 438th Supply Squadron played a critical role in ensuring operational readiness during both peacetime and periods of increased military activity, including Cold War contingencies. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of Air Force logistics restructuring, with its functions consolidated into larger support organizations.

The 4392nd Security Police Squadron (SPS) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, during the Cold War era. Activated in the 1960s, the squadron was responsible for safeguarding the base’s critical missile and space launch facilities, ensuring the security of personnel and sensitive assets. The unit played a vital role in the protection of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and supported numerous high-profile space launches. In 1991, the 4392nd SPS was redesignated as the 30th Security Police Squadron as part of an Air Force-wide reorganization.

The 51st Tactical Fighter Wing (51 TFW) was originally activated as the 51st Fighter Wing in 1948, serving in the Far East during the early years of the Cold War. The wing gained distinction during the Korean War, flying F-80 and F-86 aircraft, and becoming one of the top scoring units against enemy MiGs. In the post-Korean War era, the 51 TFW transitioned through various aircraft and missions, maintaining air defense readiness in the Pacific region. Today, redesignated as the 51st Fighter Wing, it is based at Osan Air Base, South Korea, and plays a vital role in the defense of the Korean Peninsula.

The 52nd Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit tasked with providing law enforcement and security services, primarily at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. Historically, the squadron played a critical role in safeguarding USAF assets and personnel during the Cold War, maintaining continuous readiness against potential threats. Members of the 52nd Security Police Squadron participated in numerous NATO exercises, strengthening allied cooperation and base defense capabilities. In subsequent years, the unit adapted to evolving security challenges, eventually being redesignated as the 52nd Security Forces Squadron, reflecting its expanded mission in force protection and contingency operations.

The 6917th Security Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War, primarily tasked with signals intelligence (SIGINT) and electronic surveillance operations. Activated in the 1950s, the squadron was stationed at San Vito dei Normanni Air Station in Italy, where it played a crucial role in monitoring Soviet and Eastern Bloc communications throughout Europe and the Mediterranean region. The squadron operated advanced intercept and analysis equipment, supporting both national intelligence objectives and NATO missions. The 6917th Security Squadron was eventually inactivated in the early 1990s as the Cold War ended and U.S. military intelligence operations in Europe were reorganized.

The 814th Engineers Air Force Base (AFB) was a specialized engineering unit formed during World War II to provide critical airfield construction and maintenance support for the United States Army Air Forces. Activated in 1943, the unit was primarily deployed in the European Theater, where it played a vital role in building and repairing runways, taxiways, and support facilities to ensure continuous air operations. The 814th Engineers worked under combat conditions, often facing enemy fire and challenging weather as they enabled rapid deployment of Allied air power. After the war, the unit was inactivated as part of the postwar drawdown but left a legacy of engineering excellence and dedication to mission success.

The 821st Combat Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Vietnam War era. Established in 1966, the squadron was tasked with providing air base ground defense and security for critical USAF installations, including Phan Rang Air Base in South Vietnam. Its personnel conducted perimeter defense, rapid response to enemy attacks, and patrolled base surroundings to deter Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army infiltrations. The unit was inactivated in 1972 as American military involvement in Vietnam decreased and bases were handed over to South Vietnamese control.

The 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, known as the "Wolf Pack," is a distinguished unit of the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) with a storied history dating back to its activation in 1948. During the Vietnam War, the wing became renowned for its combat effectiveness while operating out of Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, flying F-4 Phantom II aircraft on interdiction, air superiority, and close air support missions. Under the legendary leadership of Colonel Robin Olds, the 8th TFW achieved significant aerial victories and played a pivotal role in Operation Bolo, a successful effort to lure and destroy North Vietnamese MiGs. Today, the 8th Fighter Wing is based at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, and continues its legacy of readiness and deterrence with modern F-16 Fighting Falcons.

The 96th Security Police Squadron was an integral unit of the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for providing law enforcement, base security, and protection of critical Air Force assets, including nuclear weapons and high-value installations. Members of the 96th Security Police Squadron participated in various readiness exercises and supported contingency operations to ensure the safety and operational capability of the base. Over the years, the squadron evolved with changing Air Force needs, eventually becoming part of the modern Security Forces structure.

The Air Force, as a distinct military branch, traces its origins to the early 20th century, when the use of aircraft in warfare began during World War I. Initially part of the Army in many countries, independent air forces were established after World War II, recognizing the strategic importance of air power. The United States Air Force was officially formed in 1947, becoming the world’s first separate air force branch. Since then, air forces worldwide have played crucial roles in conflicts, engaging in air superiority, strategic bombing, reconnaissance, and more recently, space and cyber operations.

The 1st Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment (1-319th AFAR) traces its lineage to the 319th Field Artillery, which was constituted in 1917 and served in World War I as part of the 82nd Division. Reactivated during World War II, the unit provided critical airborne artillery support in major campaigns including Sicily, Normandy (D-Day), and the Battle of the Bulge. Throughout the Cold War and into the present, 1-319th AFAR has participated in numerous operations, such as Operation Just Cause in Panama, Operation Desert Storm, and deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. As a key component of the 82nd Airborne Division, the battalion is renowned for its rapid deployment capability and excellence in providing fire support to airborne and ground forces.

The 11th Air Refueling Squadron (11th ARS) was first activated in 1942 as the 11th Combat Cargo Squadron and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing critical airlift support. Reactivated and redesignated as the 11th Air Refueling Squadron in 1955, the unit became an integral part of Strategic Air Command, operating KC-97 and later KC-135 aircraft to extend the range of U.S. bombers and fighters during the Cold War. Throughout its history, the 11th ARS participated in major operations, including support missions during the Vietnam War and Desert Storm. The unit was inactivated in 1994 as part of post-Cold War restructuring but left a legacy of distinguished aerial refueling service.

The 127th Wing, based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan, is a composite unit of the Michigan Air National Guard. Established in 1996 through the consolidation of the 127th Fighter Wing and the 191st Airlift Group, the unit traces its heritage back to World War II-era fighter groups. The wing operates both the A-10C Thunderbolt II for close air support missions and the KC-135T Stratotanker for air refueling operations. Over the years, the 127th Wing has supported multiple overseas deployments, homeland defense missions, and disaster response efforts, maintaining a critical role in both national defense and state emergencies.

The 12th Reconnaissance Intelligence Technical Squadron was established to provide specialized intelligence and reconnaissance support to higher command echelons. Activated during a period of heightened global tensions, the unit was tasked with collecting, analyzing, and disseminating critical battlefield information using advanced surveillance and imagery technologies. Throughout its operational history, the squadron played a pivotal role in supporting joint and combined operations, contributing to mission planning and threat assessment. Its expertise in technical intelligence ensured timely and accurate data delivery, cementing its reputation as a vital asset within the intelligence community.

The 1370th Photo Mapping Wing was a specialized unit of the United States Air Force, activated in 1954 to support global aerial mapping and geodetic survey missions during the Cold War. Operating a variety of aircraft such as the RB-50, RC-130, and later the RC-135, the wing provided critical cartographic data for military and civilian use, including charting remote and strategic regions. The unit played a significant role in advancing aerial reconnaissance and mapping technologies, supporting both national defense and scientific exploration. The 1370th Photo Mapping Wing was inactivated in 1972, with its missions and resources absorbed by other reconnaissance and mapping organizations.

The 142nd Maintenance Squadron is a unit of the Oregon Air National Guard, aligned under the 142nd Wing and based at Portland Air National Guard Base. Established to provide comprehensive maintenance support, the squadron has played a pivotal role in ensuring the readiness and operational capability of the unit's aircraft, including the F-15 Eagle. Throughout its history, the 142nd Maintenance Squadron has supported both federal and state missions, deploying personnel and equipment in support of overseas operations and homeland defense. Its commitment to excellence has earned the squadron multiple awards for maintenance effectiveness and mission support.

The 1611th Military Air Transport Squadron (MATS) was a unit of the United States Air Force under the Military Air Transport Service. Activated in the early 1950s, the squadron was based primarily at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. Its primary mission was to provide strategic airlift and logistical support, transporting personnel, cargo, and equipment across the Atlantic and to various overseas locations during the Cold War era. The 1611th MATS played a vital role in supporting U.S. military operations and humanitarian missions until it was inactivated and its functions absorbed into other airlift units as part of Air Force reorganization in the 1960s.

The 181st Medical Squadron is a unit of the Indiana Air National Guard, aligned under the 181st Intelligence Wing at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base in Terre Haute, Indiana. Established to provide comprehensive medical support, the squadron has played a crucial role in maintaining the health and readiness of Airmen through routine care, emergency response, and deployment processing. Over the years, its personnel have supported both stateside and overseas operations, participating in humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and military exercises. The 181st Medical Squadron continues to uphold a tradition of excellence, ensuring medical readiness and resilience for its wing and community.

The 19th Air Refueling Wing (19th ARW) traces its heritage to the 19th Bombardment Group, which was activated in 1927 and played a significant role in World War II, particularly in the Pacific Theater. Redesignated as the 19th Air Refueling Wing in 1982, the unit transitioned from bombers to aerial refueling, operating out of Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. The 19th ARW currently flies the KC-135R Stratotanker, providing global aerial refueling and rapid mobility support to U.S. and allied forces. Over its history, the wing has participated in major operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning numerous commendations for its service.

The **21st Combat Support Group (CSG)**, stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base (AFB) in Alaska, played a crucial role in supporting U.S. Air Force operations during the Cold War and beyond. Activated in the mid-20th century, the 21st CSG provided essential base operations, logistics, civil engineering, and security services, ensuring the readiness of fighter and reconnaissance units assigned to Elmendorf. The group was instrumental in maintaining the base’s capability to respond to potential threats in the Arctic and Pacific regions, particularly against Soviet incursions. The 21st CSG’s legacy includes its significant contributions to the defense of North America and its ongoing support to various U.S. military missions in Alaska.

The 341st Missile Security Squadron (341 MSS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana. Established to provide dedicated security for the 341st Missile Wing's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) facilities, the squadron has played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's nuclear deterrent since its activation. Its personnel are highly trained in nuclear security, rapid response, and law enforcement operations, ensuring the protection of Minuteman III missile sites across a vast area. Over the years, the 341 MSS has adapted to evolving threats and technologies, maintaining its reputation for professionalism and operational excellence within Air Force Global Strike Command.

The 509th Security Police Squadron (509th SPS) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. It was responsible for providing security and law enforcement for the 509th Bomb Wing, which operates the nation’s B-2 Spirit stealth bombers. The squadron’s history traces back to earlier iterations during the Cold War, when it protected nuclear assets and personnel. Throughout its service, the 509th SPS played a vital role in safeguarding some of America's most strategic military resources.