U.S. Air Force

The 3345th Technical School was a United States Air Force training unit located at Chanute Air Force Base, Illinois. Established in the post-World War II era, the unit was responsible for providing technical training to airmen in various specialties, including aircraft maintenance, missile systems, and electronics. Throughout its operational years, the 3345th played a crucial role in preparing thousands of Air Force personnel for assignments worldwide, supporting both Cold War and peacetime missions. The unit remained active until the closure of Chanute AFB in 1993, marking the end of its significant contribution to Air Force readiness and technical excellence.

The 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron (MIMS), located at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, is a vital component of the 341st Missile Wing. Established during the Cold War, the squadron’s primary mission has been to provide maintenance and logistical support for the wing’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems, notably the Minuteman III. Over the decades, the 341st MIMS has ensured the operational readiness and reliability of the nation’s strategic deterrent forces through expert maintenance, repair, and support activities. The squadron’s dedication contributes directly to the United States’ nuclear deterrence mission, maintaining a posture of readiness and excellence within Air Force Global Strike Command.

The 351st Missile Maintenance Squadron (MIMS) was an integral unit of the 351st Strategic Missile Wing (SAC), based at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Activated in the early 1960s, the squadron was responsible for the maintenance and readiness of the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) systems, ensuring their operational capability throughout the Cold War. The 351st MIMS played a critical role in the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy by providing specialized technical support and rapid response to missile system issues. The squadron continued its mission until the inactivation of the 351st Strategic Missile Wing in the 1990s, following the end of the Cold War and subsequent arms reduction treaties.

The 3525th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was a unit under the Air Training Command (ATC) of the United States Air Force, stationed at Williams Air Force Base, Arizona. Activated in the late 1940s, its primary mission was to provide aircraft maintenance and support for pilot training operations, particularly for jet trainers such as the T-33 and later the T-37 and T-38. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness and safety of training aircraft during the peak years of USAF pilot production in the Cold War era. The 3525th OMS was eventually inactivated in the early 1970s as part of a larger reorganization and drawdown of Air Training Command units.

The 35th Security Police Squadron (35th SPS) was an Air Force unit assigned to Phan Rang Air Base in the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Activated at Phan Rang in October 1966, the 35th SPS was responsible for the security and defense of the base, safeguarding aircraft, personnel, and resources from enemy attacks and sabotage. The squadron played a critical role during frequent mortar and rocket attacks, as well as repelling ground assaults, notably during the Tet Offensive and other major enemy actions. The 35th SPS remained at Phan Rang until the base was turned over to the Republic of Vietnam Air Force in 1972, earning several commendations for its service and dedication.

The 390th Strategic Missile Wing (SMW) was activated in 1962 at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, as part of the United States Air Force’s efforts during the Cold War. Assigned to the Strategic Air Command, the 390th SMW operated LGM-25C Titan II intercontinental ballistic missiles, serving as a critical component of America’s nuclear deterrent force. The wing maintained 18 missile silos and played a vital role in national defense throughout its operational years. The 390th SMW was inactivated in 1984 following the decommissioning of the Titan II missile system.

The 3922nd Combat Support Group (SAC) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Strategic Air Command. Activated at RAF Mildenhall, England, in 1951, the group provided vital base and logistical support for SAC's strategic bomber and reconnaissance operations during the early years of the Cold War. Its responsibilities included maintenance, security, supply, and various services required to sustain deployed bomber and tanker units. The 3922nd CSG contributed significantly to NATO's deterrence posture in Europe before being discontinued in 1966 when USAF organizational structures at Mildenhall were realigned.

The 431st Munitions Maintenance Squadron (431st MMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and handling of munitions. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a critical role in supporting USAF operations, ensuring that aircraft were supplied with safe and reliable ordnance. The 431st MMS was often stationed at overseas bases, contributing to NATO readiness and deterrence missions. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of post-Cold War drawdowns and restructuring of USAF munitions support units.

The 435th Security Police Squadron (435th SPS) was an active United States Air Force security unit, primarily stationed at Rhein-Main Air Base in West Germany during the Cold War. Tasked with base security, law enforcement, and force protection, the squadron played a vital role in safeguarding critical airlift operations and U.S. personnel. Throughout its service, the 435th SPS responded to various security threats, adapting to evolving tactics and technologies. The unit was eventually inactivated following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Europe after the end of the Cold War.

The 4392nd Civil Engineering Squadron was an integral unit within the United States Air Force, primarily active during the Cold War era. Stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, the squadron was responsible for supporting missile operations and infrastructure development, particularly in connection with intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) programs. Its duties included construction, maintenance, and emergency repairs of base facilities and launch complexes, ensuring operational readiness and safety. The 4392nd CES played a vital role in sustaining the base’s mission until it was eventually redesignated as part of broader Air Force organizational changes.

The 43rd Munitions Maintenance Squadron (43rd MMS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for the storage, maintenance, and handling of nuclear and conventional munitions during the Cold War. Activated in the 1950s, it was originally assigned to support the 43rd Bombardment Wing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The squadron played a critical role in ensuring the readiness and reliability of the wing’s Strategic Air Command bombers by maintaining their armament. The unit was inactivated in the late 1960s as part of Air Force restructuring and changes in the nation's strategic deterrence posture.

The 442nd Air Base Group Squadron (Tactical Air Command) was originally constituted during the buildup of the United States Air Force’s support infrastructure in the early Cold War. Activated in the mid-20th century, the unit provided essential base operations, logistics, and administrative support for flying and combat squadrons assigned to the Tactical Air Command (TAC). Throughout its service, the 442nd played a key role in ensuring the operational readiness of tactical fighter wings during both peacetime and periods of heightened international tension. The unit’s legacy is marked by its adaptability and steadfast commitment to mission support before its eventual inactivation or reorganization as the Air Force modernized its command structures.

The 479th Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was an integral support unit assigned to the 479th Tactical Fighter Wing, primarily based at George Air Force Base, California. Activated during the Cold War era, the 479th FMS provided essential aircraft maintenance, repair, and logistical support for the wing’s fighter jets, including the F-104 Starfighter and later the F-4 Phantom II. The squadron’s expertise ensured the operational readiness of the wing, contributing to air defense and tactical missions at home and abroad. The 479th FMS was inactivated in the late 1970s as part of broader Air Force restructuring and technological advancements in aircraft maintenance.

The 480th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS), known as the "Warhawks," was originally activated during World War II and later reactivated during the Cold War era. The squadron became notable for its service during the Vietnam War, flying F-4 Phantom II aircraft on combat missions out of Southeast Asia. Throughout its history, the 480th TFS participated in various NATO and U.S. Air Force operations, demonstrating exceptional combat readiness and versatility. The unit’s legacy continues today as part of the 480th Fighter Squadron, stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, flying the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The 4th Tactical Fighter Group traces its origins to World War II, initially activated as the 4th Fighter Group in 1942, composed largely of American volunteers from the Royal Air Force “Eagle Squadrons.” Renowned for flying P-47 Thunderbolts and later P-51 Mustangs, the group became one of the highest-scoring units in the European Theater, credited with over 1,000 enemy aircraft destroyed. During the Cold War, it was redesignated as the 4th Tactical Fighter Group, transitioning to jet aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre and later the F-4 Phantom II, and participated in major operations including the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The unit’s legacy of excellence continues today as the 4th Fighter Wing, based at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina.

The 501st Tactical Missile Wing (501st TMW) was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1982 at RAF Greenham Common, England, during the height of the Cold War. Its primary mission was the operation and maintenance of the BGM-109G Ground Launched Cruise Missiles (GLCM), providing a critical component of NATO’s nuclear deterrent against the Soviet Union. The wing played a key role in implementing the U.S. response to the Soviet SS-20 missile threat in Europe. Following the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987, which eliminated an entire class of nuclear missiles, the 501st TMW was inactivated in 1991, and its missiles were removed and destroyed.

The 509th Civil Engineer Squadron (509th CES) is a vital support unit assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, under the 509th Bomb Wing. The squadron traces its roots to the historic 509th Composite Group, which played a pivotal role during World War II. Today, the 509th CES is responsible for maintaining base infrastructure, emergency management, and ensuring the rapid repair of facilities critical to the operation of the Air Force’s B-2 Spirit stealth bomber fleet. Their expertise enables the 509th Bomb Wing to maintain combat readiness and support global strike missions at a moment’s notice.

The 554th Civil Engineer Operations Squadron (554th CEOS) is a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished history of providing critical engineering support. Originally activated as part of the Air Force’s civil engineer structure, the unit has been stationed at various locations, including Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The 554th CEOS is renowned for its rapid deployment capabilities, supporting both peacetime construction projects and contingency operations across the Pacific theater. Over the years, the squadron has played a vital role in disaster relief, base maintenance, and infrastructure development, contributing significantly to mission readiness and operational success.

The 555th Fighter Squadron, known as the "Triple Nickel," was activated in 1942 and has a distinguished combat history spanning World War II, the Vietnam War, and modern conflicts. During Vietnam, the squadron earned acclaim for its air-to-air victories while flying the F-4 Phantom II. Over the decades, the 555th has operated a variety of fighter aircraft and played vital roles in NATO and U.S. Air Force operations, including missions in Operation Allied Force and Operation Inherent Resolve. Today, the squadron is based at Aviano Air Base, Italy, flying the F-16 Fighting Falcon and continuing its legacy of excellence in air combat and multinational cooperation.

The 58th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force with a distinguished history in atmospheric research and reconnaissance. Activated during World War II, the squadron initially undertook weather observation missions critical for planning Allied air operations. In the postwar years, it gained prominence for its involvement in high-risk weather reconnaissance, including flights into hurricanes and atomic test clouds to gather vital meteorological and radiological data. The squadron played a key role during the Cold War, supporting both military operations and scientific advancements, before its inactivation in the late 1960s.

The 609th Tactical Control Squadron (TCS) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for providing tactical air control and radar support for air operations. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron played a vital role in coordinating air defense and managing airspace, particularly in support of NATO operations in Europe. The 609th TCS was equipped with sophisticated radar and communications equipment, enabling precise tracking and control of friendly and adversary aircraft. Over the years, the unit contributed significantly to joint exercises and real-world contingencies before its inactivation or realignment as part of broader USAF organizational changes.

The 6168th Combat Support Squadron (CSS) was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Taegu Air Base (also known as K-2), Republic of Korea (ROK), primarily during the Korean War and the ensuing years of U.S. presence on the peninsula. Activated to provide essential combat support services, the 6168th CSS was responsible for logistics, supply, maintenance, and base operations, ensuring smooth functioning of air missions in the region. The unit played a vital role in supporting both flying and ground operations, contributing to the defense posture of United Nations and U.S. forces in South Korea. Over its tenure at Taegu AB, the 6168th CSS helped enhance the base’s capabilities, cementing its importance as a key logistics and support hub in the region.

The 61st Tactical Airlift Squadron (61st TAS) traces its origins to World War II, where it was first activated as the 61st Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942. During the war, the unit played a vital role in airborne operations, including the D-Day invasion and operations in the European Theater. After the war, the squadron was inactivated and later reactivated during the Cold War, transitioning to various airlift missions and aircraft, such as the C-130 Hercules. Throughout its service, the 61st TAS has participated in numerous operations, both combat and humanitarian, solidifying its reputation as a premier airlift unit in the United States Air Force.

The 7350th Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit primarily stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, during the Cold War era. Established in the late 1960s, the squadron was tasked with providing law enforcement, security, and force protection for critical USAF assets and personnel in Europe, particularly during heightened tensions with the Warsaw Pact. The 7350th Security Police played a key role in safeguarding nuclear storage sites, flight lines, and supporting NATO operations. In the early 1990s, as part of post-Cold War restructuring, the unit was inactivated and its responsibilities were transferred to successor security forces squadrons.