U.S. Air Force

Fleet Composite Squadron 6 (VC-6) was a United States Navy aviation unit established to provide a variety of support roles, including target drone operations, electronic warfare training, and fleet support services. Originally formed during the Cold War era, VC-6 operated a diverse fleet of aircraft, such as the A-3 Skywarrior, S-2 Tracker, and various unmanned aerial vehicles, to simulate enemy threats and enhance fleet readiness. The squadron played a crucial role in training naval personnel and testing new technologies until its disestablishment in 2008. VC-6's legacy includes pioneering work in unmanned systems and contributions to naval electronic warfare capabilities.

**Howard AFB CES Military History:** The Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) at Howard Air Force Base (AFB), Panama, played a crucial support role during the base’s operational years, particularly throughout the Cold War and Operation Just Cause in 1989. Tasked with the maintenance and construction of facilities, runways, and infrastructure, the Howard AFB CES ensured the base’s readiness for rapid deployment and sustained air operations across Latin America. Their expertise was vital in supporting U.S. Southern Command missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts in the region. The unit’s legacy reflects a commitment to operational excellence and adaptability, contributing significantly to U.S. strategic interests in the Western Hemisphere until the base’s closure in 1999.

The Military Air Transport Service (MATS) was established by the United States Air Force on June 1, 1948, as a unified command to provide strategic airlift and transport services worldwide. Created by merging the Air Transport Command and the Naval Air Transport Service, MATS played a pivotal role during the Berlin Airlift, Korean War, and early stages of the Vietnam War, ensuring rapid global movement of troops, equipment, and supplies. MATS operated a variety of aircraft, including the C-54 Skymaster and C-124 Globemaster, pioneering long-range air routes and aerial refueling techniques. In 1966, MATS was reorganized and redesignated as the Military Airlift Command (MAC), marking the end of its distinguished era.

Naha Air Base, located in Okinawa, Japan, has a rich military history dating back to World War II, when it was initially constructed and utilized by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service. Following the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, the base was seized and expanded by United States forces, becoming an important hub for the U.S. Air Force during the postwar occupation and throughout the Cold War. In 1972, with the reversion of Okinawa to Japanese sovereignty, control of Naha Air Base was transferred to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). Today, it serves as a key base for the JASDF, housing the 9th Air Wing and playing a vital role in the air defense of Japan’s southwestern region.

The 100th Force Support Squadron (100 FSS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom. Established to provide essential support services, the squadron plays a critical role in sustaining the morale, welfare, and readiness of airmen and their families. Throughout its history, 100 FSS has managed operations such as lodging, dining, fitness, and personnel services, enabling the 100th Air Refueling Wing to focus on its primary mission. The squadron's dedication to service and community has made it a cornerstone of RAF Mildenhall’s operational success.

The 109th General Hospital was a U.S. Army medical unit first activated during World War II. Organized in 1942, the hospital group served in the European Theater, providing critical medical support to American and Allied forces during campaigns in England, France, and Belgium. The unit was responsible for treating thousands of wounded soldiers, often operating close to the front lines to deliver timely and effective care. Following the war, the 109th General Hospital was deactivated, but its legacy of service and dedication to military medicine remains a significant chapter in Army medical history.

12 Signal Group was a formation of the Royal Corps of Signals in the British Army, established in 1967. Its primary role was to provide communications support to the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR) in West Germany during the Cold War. The unit managed and operated a range of signal networks, ensuring secure and effective communication for command and control functions. 12 Signal Group was disbanded in 1981 as part of a wider reorganization of British Army signals units in Europe.

The 128th Air Refueling Wing (128 ARW) is a unit of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, headquartered at General Mitchell Air National Guard Base in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Originally established in 1947 as the 128th Fighter Group, the unit has undergone several redesignations and mission changes, transitioning to air refueling operations in 1961. The wing operates the KC-135R Stratotanker, providing essential aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. Throughout its history, the 128th ARW has participated in major operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to both national defense and humanitarian missions.

The 135th CEF, Crash & Rescue, was a specialized unit formed under the Canadian Expeditionary Force during the First World War. Tasked primarily with rapid response to aircraft accidents and battlefield emergencies, the unit combined firefighting, medical, and engineering expertise to save lives and recover valuable equipment. Operating near frontline airfields in France, the 135th CEF gained a reputation for bravery under fire, often entering dangerous crash sites under enemy shelling. Their efforts contributed significantly to the survival of downed pilots and the preservation of critical air assets during the war.

The 138th Tulsa Air Guard, officially known as the 138th Fighter Wing, is a unit of the Oklahoma Air National Guard stationed at Tulsa Air National Guard Base, Oklahoma. Established in 1957, the unit originally flew the F-86 Sabre and has since transitioned through several aircraft, including the F-100 Super Sabre and A-7 Corsair II, before adopting the F-16 Fighting Falcon in the 1990s. The 138th has supported both state and federal missions, including deployments for Operations Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. Today, the unit continues to play a vital role in air defense and combat operations, maintaining readiness to support national security objectives at home and abroad.

The 153rd Airlift Wing, Wyoming Air National Guard, traces its origins to 1946, when it was federally recognized as the 187th Fighter Squadron. Re-designated as the 153rd in 1957, the unit transitioned to an airlift mission, becoming a vital component of the Air Mobility Command. Headquartered at Cheyenne Air National Guard Base, the 153rd operates the C-130 Hercules, supporting both state and federal missions, including tactical airlift, aerial firefighting, and humanitarian relief. Over its history, the unit has deployed in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning distinction for its versatility and service.

The 18th Supply Squadron, Pick Up and Delivery, was an integral logistics unit tasked with ensuring the efficient movement of materials and supplies within the 18th Wing. Activated during the post-World War II era, the squadron played a vital role in supporting operations at key bases, notably at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Its primary mission focused on the rapid pick-up and delivery of critical parts, equipment, and mail, directly contributing to the operational readiness of assigned aircraft and ground units. Over the years, the 18th Supply Squadron adapted to evolving logistical challenges, maintaining a reputation for reliability and excellence in military supply chain operations until its eventual reorganization under broader logistics groups.

The 1957th Communications Group (1957th Comm Gp) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing vital communications support to military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the group played a significant role in ensuring secure and reliable communications for command and control functions. The unit was stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, serving as a key component in NATO and USAFE (United States Air Forces in Europe) communications infrastructure. Over its years of service, the 1957th Comm Gp contributed to numerous operations and exercises before being inactivated as part of broader USAF communications restructuring.

The 1985th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established to provide vital communications support to military operations during the Cold War era. Activated in the mid-20th century, the squadron specialized in managing and maintaining secure communications networks, including telephone, radio, and data transmission systems. The unit played a critical role in ensuring command and control capabilities for both routine operations and contingency missions within its assigned theater. Over time, as military communications technology evolved, the 1985th Communications Squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader organizational changes within the Air Force communications structure.

The 2020th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing essential communications support to air operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a crucial role in maintaining secure and reliable communications networks for command and control functions. Throughout its service, the 2020th Communications Squadron supported various missions, including contingency operations and exercises, ensuring the effective flow of information across Air Force units. The squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader communications restructuring within the Air Force.

The 20th Surveillance Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for space surveillance operations. Activated in 1966, it operated the AN/FPS-85 phased-array radar at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, which was one of the world's most powerful space tracking radars. The squadron’s mission focused on detecting, tracking, and cataloging objects in Earth’s orbit to support national security and space situational awareness. In 1995, the unit was redesignated as the 20th Space Control Squadron, continuing its vital space surveillance role within Air Force Space Command.

The 2184th Communications Squadron (2184th Comm Sq) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for providing vital communications and information systems support. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron played a key role in ensuring secure and reliable communications at remote and strategic locations, supporting both operational and administrative missions. Its personnel managed a wide array of communications equipment, including radio, telephone, and teletype systems, which were essential for command and control. The 2184th Comm Sq contributed to the overall readiness and effectiveness of the Air Force until its eventual inactivation or reorganization as communications technology evolved.

The 23rd Air Division (SAGE), established in 1966, was a key component of the United States Air Force Air Defense Command during the Cold War. Headquartered at Duluth Air Force Station, Minnesota, the division was responsible for the air defense of the upper Midwest, utilizing the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system to coordinate radar detection, interceptor aircraft, and missile responses. The 23rd ADC oversaw multiple radar squadrons and interceptor wings to protect U.S. airspace from potential Soviet bomber threats. The division remained active until 1983, when changes in defense strategy and technology led to its inactivation.

The 24th Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit primarily stationed at Howard Air Force Base in the Panama Canal Zone. Activated in the mid-20th century, the squadron was responsible for providing law enforcement, base defense, and security operations for U.S. Air Force assets in the region. The 24th Security Police Squadron played a crucial role during Operation Just Cause in 1989, safeguarding personnel and resources during the conflict. The unit was inactivated following the eventual closure of Howard AFB and the turnover of the Panama Canal Zone to Panamanian control in the late 1990s.

The **26th Field Maintenance Squadron (26th FMS)** was a vital support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to the 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing. Activated during the Cold War era, the 26th FMS provided essential aircraft maintenance, repair, and logistical support at bases such as Ramstein Air Base and later Zweibrücken Air Base in West Germany. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of reconnaissance aircraft, including the RF-4C Phantom II, contributing to NATO’s intelligence and surveillance capabilities in Europe. The 26th FMS remained active until the post-Cold War drawdown, when it was inactivated as part of broader force reductions.

The 26th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1952 during the early Cold War era. Initially stationed at Lockbourne Air Force Base, Ohio, the wing was tasked with strategic reconnaissance missions, operating a variety of aircraft including the RB-47 Stratojet. Its primary role was gathering intelligence and conducting surveillance flights, contributing to the nation's strategic deterrence and intelligence efforts. The unit underwent several redesignations before its inactivation in 1966, leaving a legacy of vital reconnaissance operations during a critical period of global tension.

The 305th Security Police Squadron was an essential unit of the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was tasked with providing security and law enforcement services, safeguarding critical assets, and supporting the operations of the 305th Air Mobility Wing. Its personnel played a pivotal role in protecting aircraft, facilities, and personnel, especially during periods of heightened alert. Over the years, the 305th Security Police Squadron adapted to evolving threats until it was re-designated as the 305th Security Forces Squadron, continuing its proud legacy of protection and defense.

The 3210th Supply Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the early years of the Cold War, primarily tasked with managing and distributing critical supplies and logistical support for its parent command. Stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, it played a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of various training and support wings based at the installation. Throughout its service, the squadron was responsible for the procurement, storage, and issuance of equipment and materiel necessary for both routine operations and contingency responses. The 3210th Supply Squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader USAF reorganization and streamlining efforts in the late 20th century.

The 331st Training Squadron, known as the "Wolves," is a unit of the United States Air Force based at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Established during World War II, the squadron has undergone several activations and redesignations throughout its history. Today, the 331st is primarily responsible for conducting Basic Military Training (BMT) for new Air Force recruits, instilling the core values and foundational skills necessary for service. The unit’s rich heritage and commitment to excellence have made it a cornerstone of Air Force enlisted training.