U.S. Air Force

The 726th Tactical Control Squadron (TCS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing tactical air control and radar surveillance for air operations. Originally activated during the Cold War, the squadron played a key role in managing and directing aircraft in support of both training missions and real-world contingencies. The 726th TCS was instrumental in coordinating air defense and tactical air support, particularly in the European and later U.S. regions. Over time, its mission evolved with advancements in radar and communication technology, before eventually being inactivated as part of broader Air Force restructuring.

The 91st Transportation Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1952 at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Ohio. Its primary mission centered on providing ground transportation and vehicle maintenance support for base operations and personnel. Throughout its active years, the squadron played a crucial logistical role during the Cold War, ensuring the efficient movement of equipment and supplies for the 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. The unit was eventually inactivated in 1965 as part of broader Air Force restructuring.

The 92nd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (92nd OMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to the 92nd Bombardment Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington. Activated during the Cold War era, the 92nd OMS was responsible for the organizational-level maintenance of the wing’s aircraft, supporting strategic bombardment and air refueling missions primarily with B-52 Stratofortresses and KC-135 Stratotankers. The squadron played a vital role in ensuring aircraft readiness during periods of heightened alert and participated in numerous training exercises and operational deployments. In line with Air Force restructuring, the 92nd OMS was eventually inactivated, with its functions absorbed by consolidated maintenance organizations.

940th Wing

17 members

The 940th Wing is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, established in 1963 as the 940th Troop Carrier Group. Originally activated at McClellan Air Force Base, California, its early mission focused on airlift and tactical support using C-119 Flying Boxcars. Over the decades, the unit transitioned through various aircraft and missions, including aerial refueling with KC-135 Stratotankers and, more recently, command and control operations. Today, stationed at Beale Air Force Base, California, the 940th Wing supports global operations and readiness as part of the Air Force Reserve Command.

The 97th Field Maintenance Squadron (97th FMS) was a vital support unit assigned to the 97th Bombardment Wing, primarily stationed at Blytheville Air Force Base (later Eaker AFB), Arkansas. Activated during the Cold War, the 97th FMS was responsible for the maintenance and repair of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, ensuring the wing's readiness for strategic missions. The squadron played a crucial role in sustaining the wing’s operational capabilities during periods of heightened alert and routine operations. The 97th FMS was eventually inactivated as part of post-Cold War realignments and base closures in the early 1990s.

The Air Force Weapons Laboratory (AFWL) was established in 1963 at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, as part of the Air Force Systems Command. Its primary mission was to research, develop, and test advanced weapon systems, with a significant focus on nuclear weapons effects and directed energy technologies. Throughout the Cold War, the laboratory played a crucial role in assessing nuclear survivability and advancing pulsed power and laser systems. In 1997, the AFWL was merged into the Phillips Laboratory, which later became part of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), continuing its legacy of cutting-edge military research.

Assault Craft Unit Four (ACU-4) is a United States Navy unit established in 1983 and based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia. Its primary mission is to operate and maintain Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles, enabling rapid ship-to-shore movement of troops, vehicles, and equipment during amphibious operations. ACU-4 played significant roles in major exercises and real-world operations, including support for Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and humanitarian relief missions. The unit continues to be a vital component of the Navy’s amphibious capabilities, demonstrating flexibility and readiness in diverse environments around the world.

Headquarters Pacific Air Forces (HQ PACAF) was established on July 1, 1957, as the major command of the United States Air Force responsible for operations in the Indo-Pacific region. PACAF traces its lineage to the Far East Air Forces, which played a vital role in World War II and the Korean War. Throughout the Cold War, PACAF provided air defense and power projection across the Pacific, supporting operations in Vietnam and deterring regional threats. Today, HQ PACAF, based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, continues to lead air operations, partnerships, and humanitarian missions across a vast and strategically important theater.

The Security Service is a military unit typically tasked with the protection of sensitive installations, personnel, and classified information. Its origins can be traced to early 20th-century military organizations, where specialized detachments were formed to safeguard military secrets and ensure internal security. Over time, the Security Service expanded its scope to include counterintelligence, surveillance, and the prevention of espionage within the armed forces. Today, Security Service units play a crucial role in maintaining operational integrity and national security across various branches of the military.

Space Development and Test Wing

17 members

The Space Development and Test Wing (SDTW) was a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for developing, testing, and evaluating space systems and technologies. Activated in 2006 under the Air Force Space Command's Space and Missile Systems Center, the SDTW played a crucial role in advancing space capabilities, including satellite and launch vehicle development, as well as experimental and demonstration missions. The unit managed a diverse portfolio of programs and collaborated with military, government, and industry partners to accelerate innovation in space operations. In 2014, it was reorganized and redesignated as part of the Space Test and Evaluation Directorate, continuing its mission under a new structure.

The 1000th Special Operations Group (SOG) was a unique and secretive unit within the United States Air Force, established in 1968 at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C. Its primary mission was to provide clandestine airlift and logistical support for covert operations, often in coordination with other U.S. government agencies during the height of the Cold War. The unit operated a variety of modified aircraft and was instrumental in supporting sensitive missions, both domestically and abroad. The 1000th SOG was inactivated in 1972, with its missions and resources absorbed by other Special Operations units.

The 123rd Airlift Wing is a unit of the Kentucky Air National Guard, based at Louisville Air National Guard Base, Kentucky. Established in 1947, the wing has a distinguished history of providing tactical airlift support, including humanitarian and combat missions worldwide. The unit has operated various aircraft, most notably the C-130 Hercules, and has participated in major operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Renowned for its operational excellence, the 123rd Airlift Wing has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its performance and dedication.

The 135th Airlift Group was a unit of the Maryland Air National Guard, originally established in 1955 as the 135th Air Resupply Group. Over its history, the group underwent several mission changes, including roles in psychological warfare, special operations, and ultimately tactical airlift. Throughout the Cold War and beyond, the unit provided vital support in both domestic and overseas operations, flying various aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules. The 135th Airlift Group was inactivated in 2013 following federal force structure changes, ending nearly six decades of distinguished service.

The 1550th Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was an integral support unit within the United States Air Force, activated as part of the 1550th Aircrew Training and Test Wing at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Established in the 1970s, the squadron was responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft assigned to the wing, primarily supporting search and rescue, special operations, and training missions using aircraft such as the HH-3E Jolly Green Giant and HC-130. The 1550th FMS provided critical technical expertise, ensuring aircraft readiness and mission capability during both peacetime operations and contingency deployments. The squadron continued its support role until the wing's inactivation and subsequent reorganization in the early 1990s.

The 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (15th Tac Recon) was a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished history in aerial reconnaissance. Activated during World War II, the squadron initially flew photographic missions over enemy territory in the European Theater, providing crucial intelligence for Allied operations. During the Cold War, the 15th Tac Recon was re-equipped with jet aircraft such as the RF-101 Voodoo, performing high-speed tactical reconnaissance missions. The unit was inactivated in the late 20th century as part of broader organizational changes and technological advancements in reconnaissance capabilities.

The 167th Airlift Wing is an Air National Guard unit based at Shepherd Field Air National Guard Base in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Established in 1958 as the 167th Fighter Interceptor Group, it transitioned through various missions, including tactical airlift and air refueling, before becoming an airlift wing. The unit has operated several aircraft types, most notably the C-130 Hercules and currently the C-17 Globemaster III, supporting both domestic and overseas operations. Its members have participated in numerous missions, including humanitarian relief, aeromedical evacuations, and deployments to support operations in the Middle East.

The 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, was established in 1962 and is headquartered at Warfield Air National Guard Base in Middle River, Maryland. Initially organized as the 175th Tactical Fighter Group, the unit has operated a range of aircraft, including the A-10C Thunderbolt II, supporting both state and federal missions. The 175th Wing has deployed personnel and equipment for operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing close air support and combat search and rescue. In addition to its federal missions, the Wing has played a key role in disaster response and homeland security within Maryland and the mid-Atlantic region.

The 181st Tactical Air Command (181 TAC) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era to provide tactical air support and command functions. Initially activated in the 1950s, the unit played a significant role in coordinating air operations and supporting ground forces during numerous exercises and real-world contingencies. Throughout its existence, the 181 TAC was equipped with various fighter and reconnaissance aircraft, adapting to changing mission requirements and advancements in technology. The unit was eventually reorganized or redesignated as part of broader USAF restructuring, leaving a legacy of operational excellence and adaptability in tactical air command operations.

The 18th Security Police Squadron (18th SPS) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan. Originally designated as a part of the Air Police, the squadron has served in various security and law enforcement roles since its establishment, including during the Vietnam War, where it provided base defense and force protection. Over the years, the 18th SPS has played a vital role in the defense of U.S. interests in the Pacific, adapting to evolving security challenges. Today, the unit continues its mission of safeguarding personnel and resources at Kadena, supporting both peacetime operations and contingency missions in the region.

**1931 Communications Group Military History (Summary)** The 1931 Communications Group (1931 COM GP) was established in the early 1960s as part of the United States Air Force's expanding communications network during the Cold War. Originally activated to provide secure, reliable communications support to strategic air and missile operations, the unit played a critical role in maintaining command and control links during periods of heightened alert. Throughout its service, the 1931 COM GP participated in various joint exercises and supported both peacetime and contingency operations, adapting to evolving technologies and mission requirements. The unit's legacy is marked by its commitment to operational excellence and its significant contributions to U.S. Air Force communications capabilities before its eventual inactivation in the late 20th century.

The 2046th Communications Group (Air Force Communications Service) was an essential United States Air Force communications unit during the Cold War era. Activated in the mid-20th century, the group was responsible for providing, operating, and maintaining critical communications and information systems to support USAF missions. Stationed primarily in Alaska, the 2046th Communications Group played a vital role in ensuring command and control capabilities across remote and strategically important northern locations. The unit contributed significantly to air defense and surveillance operations before its eventual inactivation and reorganization as part of broader Air Force communications restructuring.

The 20th Civil Engineer Squadron (20 CES) is a vital support unit of the United States Air Force, currently assigned to the 20th Mission Support Group at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Established in its current form in the mid-20th century, the squadron has played a crucial role in constructing, maintaining, and protecting base infrastructure, airfields, and combat readiness facilities. Over the decades, 20 CES has supported numerous operations both at home and abroad, providing rapid engineering, emergency management, and explosive ordnance disposal capabilities. The squadron continues its legacy by ensuring the operational effectiveness and safety of Shaw AFB and its tenant units.

**2134 Communications Squadron** was established in the early 1950s as part of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s postwar modernization efforts. Originally tasked with maintaining and operating radio and signal equipment, the squadron played a vital role in supporting air operations during the Cold War, ensuring secure and reliable communications across Canada and with NATO allies. Throughout its history, 2134 Communications Squadron adapted to new technologies, transitioning from traditional radio systems to advanced digital and satellite communications. The unit continues to provide expert communications support to both domestic and international military operations, upholding a legacy of technical excellence and operational readiness.

The **2146th Communications Group** was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the **51st Fighter Wing** at **Osan Air Base, South Korea** during the Cold War era. Tasked with providing critical communications, command, and control support, the group played a vital role in maintaining secure and reliable communications for U.S. and allied operations on the Korean peninsula. Throughout its service, the 2146th supported both routine and contingency missions, ensuring effective coordination between air and ground forces. Its efforts contributed significantly to the overall readiness and deterrence posture of U.S. forces stationed at Osan Air Base.