U.S. Air Force

Langley Air Force Base, established in 1916 in Hampton, Virginia, is one of the oldest continuously active air bases in the United States. Originally created as a site for aeronautical research and pilot training during World War I, it became a vital center for air defense and tactical innovation throughout the 20th century. During World War II, Langley served as a hub for bomber crew training and coastal defense operations. In the modern era, it is home to the 633rd Air Base Wing and the headquarters of Air Combat Command, playing a crucial role in advanced fighter operations and supporting global U.S. Air Force missions.

10 NAF HQ A6 is the Air Force Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force’s 10th Numbered Air Force (10 NAF), responsible for overseeing air operations, logistics, and support within its designated area of responsibility. The “A6” denotes the Directorate of Communications and Information Systems, which manages secure communications, cyber operations, and IT infrastructure for the command. Since its establishment, 10 NAF HQ A6 has played a crucial role in modernizing the Nigerian Air Force's digital capabilities, supporting both peacetime and combat missions. The unit’s expertise has been pivotal during joint operations and counterinsurgency efforts, ensuring robust and secure lines of communication across all air operations.

The 102nd Fighter Interceptor Wing (102nd FIW) traces its origins to the post-World War II reorganization of the Air National Guard, being officially established in 1946. Initially equipped with piston-engine fighters, the unit transitioned to jet aircraft during the early Cold War and was tasked with the air defense of the northeastern United States. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the 102nd FIW operated various interceptor aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre and F-102 Delta Dagger, maintaining a constant alert status during periods of heightened tension. The unit continued its air defense mission into the late 20th century, later redesignated and re-missioned as part of broader Air Force restructuring.

The 10th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (10th TRS) was a distinguished United States Air Force unit with origins dating back to World War II. Initially activated in 1942, it played a vital role in aerial reconnaissance, providing critical intelligence during key campaigns in the European Theater. Reactivated during the Cold War, the 10th TRS operated advanced aircraft such as the RF-4C Phantom II, conducting photographic and electronic reconnaissance missions. The unit's intelligence-gathering efforts greatly contributed to U.S. and NATO operations until its inactivation in the late 20th century.

The 125th Fighter Wing (125 FW) is a unit of the Florida Air National Guard, stationed at Jacksonville Air National Guard Base, Florida. Established in 1956, the unit has served in various roles including air defense, homeland security, and expeditionary missions. Throughout its history, the 125 FW has operated several aircraft, most notably the F-15 Eagle, providing air sovereignty and support to both state and federal missions. The unit has deployed personnel and aircraft in support of Operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning a reputation for excellence and readiness.

The 134th Air Refueling Group, part of the Tennessee Air National Guard, was established in 1957 and is based at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base near Knoxville, Tennessee. Originally activated as the 134th Fighter-Interceptor Group, it transitioned to an air refueling mission in 1964 with the acquisition of the KC-97 Stratofreighter, later upgrading to the KC-135 Stratotanker. The group has supported numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, by providing vital aerial refueling capabilities to U.S. and allied aircraft. Over the decades, the 134th has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and continues to play a key role in both state and national defense missions.

The 164th Tactical Fighter Wing was activated in the mid-20th century as part of the Air National Guard, originally tasked with providing air defense and tactical fighter support. During the Cold War, the unit was equipped with aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre and later transitioned to more advanced fighters, enhancing its air-to-ground and air superiority capabilities. The 164th participated in numerous training exercises and deployments, supporting both national defense and overseas contingency operations. Over its history, the wing earned several commendations for excellence in combat readiness and operational performance before eventually being redesignated as part of a broader Air Force restructuring.

The 1901st Communications Squadron (Comm Sq) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing critical communications support. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a vital role in maintaining secure and reliable communication links for command and control operations, often in support of strategic air commands. The unit was typically stationed at key airbases, ensuring the effective transmission of classified and operational information. Over its years of service, the 1901st Comm Sq contributed significantly to the Air Force’s global mission before being inactivated or redesignated as part of broader communications restructuring efforts.

The 1st Combat Evaluation Group (1CEVG) was a United States Air Force unit established in 1961 to enhance the effectiveness of Strategic Air Command's (SAC) bomber and missile forces during the Cold War. The group was responsible for operational evaluation, radar bomb scoring, and electronic countermeasure tests, ensuring SAC aircrews maintained combat readiness and precision. Headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, 1CEVG operated numerous radar sites across the United States and abroad, providing realistic training and assessment. The unit played a vital role in improving U.S. strategic deterrence capabilities until its inactivation in 1992 following the end of the Cold War and the restructuring of Air Force evaluation programs.

The 21st Air Force (21st AF) was established as part of the United States Air Force’s air mobility structure, initially activated in 1942 as the 21st Ferrying Group. Over the decades, it evolved into a major component of the Military Airlift Command (MAC) and later Air Mobility Command (AMC), overseeing strategic airlift and air refueling operations. Headquartered at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, the 21st AF played a critical role in supporting global operations, humanitarian missions, and rapid deployment of U.S. forces. In 2003, it was redesignated as the 21st Expeditionary Mobility Task Force before its inactivation in 2012 as part of a broader restructuring of Air Force mobility forces.

The 21st Tactical Fighter Wing was activated by the United States Air Force in 1953, initially stationed at George Air Force Base, California. Its primary mission was to provide air defense and tactical fighter operations, flying aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre and later the F-100 Super Sabre. In 1954, the wing was deployed to Chambley Air Base, France, as part of NATO commitments during the Cold War. The 21st Tactical Fighter Wing was inactivated in 1958, with its personnel and equipment reassigned to other USAF units in Europe.

The 2875th GEEIA Squadron (Ground Electronics Engineering Installation Agency) was an Air Force unit responsible for the installation, maintenance, and engineering of vital ground-based electronic systems, including radar, communications, and navigational aids. Activated in the late 1950s during the Cold War, the squadron played a key role in supporting the expanding network of air defense and command and control systems across the United States and overseas bases. Its personnel were highly trained specialists tasked with rapidly deploying and upgrading electronic infrastructure to meet evolving technological and strategic requirements. The 2875th GEEIA Squadron contributed significantly to the reliability and effectiveness of Air Force operations until its inactivation as part of broader organizational changes in Air Force communications and engineering support structures.

The 3096 AVDS (Armored Vehicle Defense Squadron) was established in 1967 as part of the broader modernization efforts of its parent military organization. Originally formed to provide maintenance and operational support for armored vehicle fleets, the unit quickly distinguished itself during training exercises and peacekeeping missions throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In the 1990s, 3096 AVDS played a crucial logistical role during regional conflicts, ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of armored units in combat zones. Today, the unit continues to serve as a key element in armored vehicle support, adapting to new technologies and mission requirements in the 21st century.

The 3246th Test Wing was an Air Force unit established in 1970 at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, as part of the Air Force Systems Command. Its primary mission was to conduct flight testing and evaluation of weapons, electronic systems, and aircraft modifications for the U.S. Air Force. The wing played a significant role in advancing air combat capabilities throughout the 1970s and 1980s, supporting a wide range of test programs including those for precision-guided munitions and electronic warfare systems. The 3246th Test Wing was inactivated in 1992, with its functions and personnel absorbed by the 46th Test Wing during a broader reorganization of Air Force test activities.

The 345th Tactical Airlift Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II. It was first established as the 345th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1949, operating primarily C-47 and later C-130 Hercules aircraft. The squadron played a key role in airlift operations during the Cold War, including support missions in Europe and Southeast Asia. The 345th was inactivated in the late 1970s as part of a broader Air Force restructuring, but its legacy endures as a testament to tactical airlift excellence.

The 363rd Equipment Maintenance Squadron (EMS) has a distinguished history within the United States Air Force, primarily supporting the 363rd Fighter Wing. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron provided essential aircraft and munitions maintenance to ensure the operational readiness of fighter jets, including the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Throughout its service, the 363rd EMS played a vital role in both stateside training missions and overseas deployments, notably supporting operations during the Gulf War. The unit’s expertise in equipment maintenance was critical in upholding the wing’s combat effectiveness until its inactivation following the restructuring of Air Combat Command in the early 1990s.

The 379th Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was a support unit within the United States Air Force, originally activated as part of the 379th Bombardment Wing. Stationed at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan, the squadron provided vital aircraft and equipment maintenance for the wing’s fleet of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft during the Cold War era. Its mission ensured that the 379th’s assets maintained high readiness for both nuclear deterrence and conventional operations. The 379th FMS was inactivated in 1993 following the end of the Cold War and the subsequent closure of Wurtsmith AFB.

The 3rd Airborne Ground Support (3rd AGS) was established in the mid-20th century to provide vital logistical and technical support to airborne operations. Initially activated during the Cold War era, the unit specialized in maintaining, supplying, and repairing equipment for paratrooper and air mobility missions. Over the years, 3rd AGS played a key role in several major exercises and deployments, ensuring rapid response capability for airborne units. Its legacy is marked by adaptability, technical expertise, and unwavering support to frontline forces.

The 3rd Light Equipment Squadron (3rd LES) was established in the early 1950s as part of the Army’s effort to modernize its engineering and support capabilities. Initially tasked with providing heavy equipment and construction support during major training exercises and national emergencies, the 3rd LES quickly gained a reputation for efficiency and technical expertise. Over the decades, the unit deployed to several overseas operations, including peacekeeping missions and disaster relief efforts, where it played a crucial role in infrastructure repair and mobility support. Today, the 3rd LES continues to serve as a vital component of the Army’s engineering corps, renowned for its rapid response and adaptability in diverse operational environments.

The 3rd Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Bien Hoa Air Base in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Activated in the early 1960s, the squadron was responsible for base security, perimeter defense, and protection of personnel and aircraft against enemy attacks, including mortar and rocket assaults. The 3rd Security Police played a critical role during the Tet Offensive in 1968, repelling enemy infiltrations and ensuring the continued operation of the air base. Their vigilance and dedication contributed significantly to the safety and operational success of U.S. air operations in the region.

The 42nd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (42 OMS) was an integral maintenance unit assigned to the 42nd Bombardment Wing under the Strategic Air Command (SAC) of the United States Air Force. Stationed at Loring Air Force Base, Maine, the 42 OMS provided critical aircraft maintenance and support for SAC's fleet of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers during the Cold War era. The squadron ensured the operational readiness of the wing’s nuclear-capable bombers, playing a key role in America’s airborne deterrence strategy. The professionalism and expertise of 42 OMS personnel contributed significantly to the effectiveness and reliability of SAC's strategic mission throughout its active years.

The 432nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (432nd AMS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, assigned to the 432nd Maintenance Group at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada. Established in 2007, the squadron provides comprehensive maintenance and support for MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft, critical for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. The 432nd AMS ensures the operational readiness of these systems, supporting both training and combat operations globally. Through its dedication and technical expertise, the unit plays a vital role in advancing the Air Force’s remotely piloted aircraft capabilities.

The 454th Bombardment Wing was an active unit of the United States Air Force, first established in 1952 as part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the early years of the Cold War. Originally based at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, the wing was later moved to Columbus AFB, Ohio, and then to other locations, operating various bomber aircraft including the B-47 Stratojet. The primary mission of the 454th was strategic bombing and nuclear deterrence, reflecting SAC’s role in America’s defense strategy. The wing was inactivated in 1963 as part of the phaseout of the B-47 fleet and the reorganization of SAC forces.

The 4756th Drone Squadron (Air Defense Command) was activated in the late 1950s as part of the United States Air Force's efforts to advance aerial target drone operations. Stationed primarily at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, the squadron operated surplus aircraft—such as modified B-17 Flying Fortresses and F-80 Shooting Stars—as radio-controlled drones for live-fire training and missile testing. These drones provided realistic targets for interceptor and surface-to-air missile crews, enhancing Air Defense Command's readiness during the early years of the Cold War. The 4756th Drone Squadron played a critical role in weapons development and training until its inactivation in the early 1960s.