U.S. Air Force

The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) was established on August 1, 1948, as a separate agency within the United States Air Force. Its mission is to provide independent criminal investigations and counterintelligence services to protect Air Force personnel and resources. Over the decades, AFOSI has played a crucial role in uncovering espionage, combating terrorism, and investigating major crimes affecting the Air Force globally. Today, AFOSI operates worldwide, with special agents serving both in garrison and deployed environments, ensuring the integrity and security of Air Force operations.

AFSOUTH, or Allied Forces Southern Europe, was established in Naples, Italy, in 1951 as a major NATO headquarters responsible for the defense of Southern Europe during the Cold War. The command oversaw the coordination of land, sea, and air forces from member nations in the Mediterranean region, including Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Throughout its history, AFSOUTH played a key role in planning and executing NATO operations in the Balkans during the 1990s, such as peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Kosovo. In 2004, AFSOUTH was reorganized and became Allied Joint Force Command Naples, continuing its vital mission of ensuring security and stability in southern Europe and beyond.

The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) was activated on July 1, 1992, following the consolidation of the Air Force Logistics Command and Air Force Systems Command. AFMC is headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, and is responsible for research, development, testing, acquisition, and sustainment of Air Force weapon systems. The command plays a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and technological superiority of the United States Air Force by managing everything from advanced research laboratories to global logistics centers. Over the years, AFMC has supported major operations and modernization efforts, ensuring that Airmen have the equipment and support necessary to accomplish their missions worldwide.

The Medical Group is a crucial component of military organizations, responsible for providing comprehensive medical support to service members in both peacetime and combat operations. Established in various forms across the world’s armed forces, Medical Groups have evolved from simple field aid stations to sophisticated units capable of advanced trauma care, preventive medicine, and evacuation. During major conflicts such as World War II and the Korean War, Medical Groups played a vital role in reducing battlefield mortality through rapid response and innovative medical techniques. Today, they continue to adapt, integrating new technologies and practices to ensure the health and readiness of military personnel worldwide.

The United States Air Force Band was established on September 24, 1941, at Bolling Field in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission has been to provide musical support for official military, diplomatic, and community events, serving as a key element in Air Force public relations and morale. Over the decades, the Band has performed at presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and international events, earning a reputation for excellence and versatility. The USAF Band continues to represent the professionalism and heritage of the Air Force through its worldwide performances and outreach programs.

The 109th Airlift Wing (109th AW) is a unit of the New York Air National Guard, stationed at Stratton Air National Guard Base in Scotia, New York. Established in 1948 as the 109th Fighter Group, it transitioned to airlift missions in the 1960s and became renowned for operating the LC-130 Hercules, the only ski-equipped aircraft in the U.S. military. The 109th AW’s unique capabilities support missions in polar regions, particularly providing vital airlift for the National Science Foundation’s research operations in Antarctica and Greenland as part of Operation Deep Freeze. Over the decades, the unit has also contributed to humanitarian relief and domestic emergency responses, cementing its reputation for versatility and excellence.

The 118th Wing, based at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Tennessee, traces its origins to the 118th Observation Squadron established in 1921. The unit served with distinction during World War II, flying combat and reconnaissance missions in the European Theater. Over the decades, the 118th underwent several mission changes, operating as a fighter, airlift, and intelligence wing. Today, the 118th Wing specializes in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, supporting both state and federal operations.

The 121st Supply Squadron (121st Supply Sq.) was a critical logistics unit responsible for providing supply and materiel support to its parent wing, historically part of the Air National Guard. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron ensured the effective management and distribution of supplies, equipment, and spare parts necessary for sustaining flight and ground operations. Over the decades, the 121st Supply Sq. supported various overseas deployments and domestic missions, adapting to evolving logistics technologies and procedures. Its dedication to mission readiness contributed significantly to the operational success of its wing and the broader United States Air Force.

The 1st Maintenance Battalion is a United States Marine Corps unit based at Camp Pendleton, California, and is part of the 1st Marine Logistics Group. Activated during World War II in 1947, the battalion has provided critical intermediate-level maintenance support for ground equipment, vehicles, and weapon systems. Over the decades, the 1st Maintenance Battalion has supported major operations including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Its mission remains vital: ensuring the operational readiness and sustainability of Marine forces through expert maintenance and logistical support.

The 201st RED HORSE Squadron is a specialized civil engineering unit of the United States Air Force, part of the Air National Guard. Established in 1985 and based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, the squadron provides rapid response capabilities for heavy construction and repair in support of both peacetime and wartime operations. Over the years, the 201st has deployed personnel and equipment across the Pacific and globally, supporting humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and contingency operations. Renowned for their expertise and adaptability, the unit plays a vital role in enhancing the Air Force's operational infrastructure and readiness.

2164 Communications Squadron was established in the mid-20th century to provide reliable communications support to operational commands. Over the decades, the unit played a vital role in enabling secure and rapid transmission of information during both peacetime and conflict, supporting joint and multinational exercises. The squadron was known for its expertise in radio, satellite, and digital communications, adapting to evolving technologies and mission requirements. As part of broader military reorganizations, 2164 Communications Squadron was eventually integrated into a larger communications group, leaving a legacy of excellence and innovation in military communications.

The 2179th Communications Group was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era to provide critical communications support to Air Force operations. Activated in the late 1950s, the group managed and maintained communications infrastructure, ensuring secure and reliable transmission of information for command and control functions. Stationed primarily at key overseas bases, the 2179th played a vital role in supporting both peacetime and contingency missions. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational restructuring and technological advancements in military communications.

The 3380th Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for providing law enforcement, security, and base defense for one of the Air Force’s major technical training centers. Throughout its service, the 3380th Security Police played a crucial role in safeguarding personnel, assets, and sensitive operations at Keesler AFB. The unit was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force restructuring and modernization efforts in the late 20th century.

The 438th Aerial Port Squadron was activated as part of the United States Air Force Reserve and has played a vital role in air mobility operations. Established during the Cold War era, the unit provided rapid cargo and personnel movement in support of both peacetime and contingency missions. Over the years, the 438th participated in various exercises and deployments, supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and humanitarian relief missions. Known for its efficiency and adaptability, the 438th Aerial Port has contributed significantly to the Air Force’s global airlift capabilities.

The 438th Military Airlift Wing (MAW) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, originally established in the Air Force Reserve in 1949. It was activated during the Korean War, providing vital airlift support for troops and equipment. The wing was later re-designated and stationed at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, where it played a key role in worldwide airlift operations, including humanitarian missions and support for global contingencies. The 438th MAW was inactivated in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War force reductions, with its legacy carried on by successor mobility and airlift units.

The **555th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS)**, known as the "Triple Nickel," was activated during World War II and later distinguished itself during the Vietnam War as part of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing. Flying F-4 Phantom II aircraft, the squadron became one of the highest scoring MiG-killer units, earning a reputation for air combat excellence. In addition to air superiority missions, the 555th TFS also conducted ground attack and close air support operations. After Vietnam, the squadron continued its service in Europe, and today, as the 555th Fighter Squadron, it operates F-16 Fighting Falcons from Aviano Air Base, Italy, supporting NATO and U.S. Air Force missions.

The 60th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (60th AMS) is a key unit of the United States Air Force, based at Travis Air Force Base in California. Established to provide maintenance support for the base’s air mobility fleet, the squadron ensures operational readiness of aircraft such as the C-5M Super Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-10 Extender. Throughout its history, the 60th AMS has played a vital role in supporting both peacetime and contingency airlift missions worldwide. Its dedicated personnel have contributed to numerous humanitarian operations and combat deployments, maintaining a reputation for excellence in aircraft maintenance and mission support.

The 60th Security Police Squadron was an essential unit assigned to Travis Air Force Base (TAFB), California, during the Cold War and beyond. Activated as part of the 60th Military Airlift Wing, the squadron was responsible for base security, law enforcement, and force protection of critical airlift operations. Throughout its service, the unit provided security for both personnel and strategic assets, including aircraft and nuclear resources, especially during periods of heightened alert. The squadron played a vital role in supporting global mobility missions and humanitarian operations until its redesignation as the 60th Security Forces Squadron in the late 1990s, reflecting broader changes in Air Force security operations.

The 615th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (615th AC&W Sq) was activated in 1948 as part of the United States Air Force's early Cold War air defense network. Stationed at several sites, including Colville Air Force Station in Washington, the unit was responsible for operating radar systems to detect and track potential aerial threats to North American airspace. The 615th played a vital role in the Air Defense Command’s mission, providing early warning and ground-controlled interception guidance during a period of heightened tensions with the Soviet Union. The squadron was inactivated in 1960 as technological advancements and restructuring led to the consolidation of air defense assets.

The 6200th Air Base Wing was a United States Air Force unit stationed in the Philippines, primarily at Clark Air Base, during the latter years of the Vietnam War and into the 1980s. Established in 1973, it was responsible for providing base operations support, including logistics, security, and facilities maintenance for Clark Air Base and its tenant units. The wing played a crucial role during Operation Babylift and Operation New Life in 1975, assisting with the evacuation and processing of Vietnamese refugees. The 6200th Air Base Wing was inactivated in 1991 following the eruption of Mount Pinatubo and the subsequent closure of Clark Air Base.

The 67th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron (67th ARRS) was a United States Air Force unit established to conduct search and rescue operations. Activated in 1961, the squadron was initially stationed at Prestwick Air Base, Scotland, providing rescue coverage for both military and civilian operations across the North Atlantic. Over the years, the 67th ARRS operated a variety of aircraft, including the HC-130 Hercules and HH-3E "Jolly Green Giant" helicopters, playing a crucial role in numerous high-profile rescue missions. The unit was inactivated in 1988, having earned a distinguished record for its life-saving missions and contributions to aircrew recovery and humanitarian efforts.

The 7th Security Police Squadron (7th SPS) is a United States Air Force unit historically assigned to the 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Activated in the 1960s, the 7th SPS was responsible for providing security, law enforcement, and force protection for personnel, aircraft, and critical assets, particularly those associated with the Strategic Air Command’s B-52 and later B-1B bomber operations. The unit played a vital role during the Cold War, maintaining high readiness to defend against potential threats and participating in various training exercises and deployments. Over time, the squadron evolved into the 7th Security Forces Squadron (7th SFS), continuing its legacy of protecting the base and supporting global Air Force missions.

Space Command, originally established as United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) in 1985, was created to coordinate the nation's military space operations and ensure dominance in the increasingly critical domain of space. The command oversaw missile warning, satellite operations, and space control functions, integrating efforts across the Air Force, Army, and Navy. In 2002, USSPACECOM was inactivated and its responsibilities were absorbed by U.S. Strategic Command. However, recognizing the growing importance of space in modern warfare, it was reestablished as a unified combatant command in 2019, tasked with deterring aggression and defending U.S. and allied interests in space.

The 1155th Technical Operations Squadron (1155th Tech Ops) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era. Activated in the late 1950s, the squadron specialized in radiological monitoring, nuclear weapons accident response, and hazardous materials detection. Throughout its service, the 1155th Tech Ops played a crucial role in supporting national defense by ensuring the safety and security of nuclear operations at various installations. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and technological advancements in Air Force technical operations.