U.S. Air Force

The 79th Fighter Squadron, known as the “Tigers,” was activated in 1942 and served with distinction in World War II, flying combat missions in the Mediterranean Theater with the P-40 Warhawk and later the P-47 Thunderbolt. The squadron participated in key campaigns, including operations in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, earning several commendations for its effectiveness in ground-attack and air superiority roles. After the war, the unit underwent several inactivations and reactivations, adapting to new aircraft such as the F-86 Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, and ultimately the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Today, the 79th Fighter Squadron is based at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, and remains an integral part of the U.S. Air Force’s combat airpower.

The 87th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (87th FIS) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, with origins dating back to World War II when it was constituted in 1942. Initially serving as part of the air defense network, the squadron flew various aircraft including the P-47 Thunderbolt and later, the F-86 Sabre and F-101 Voodoo during the Cold War. The unit was primarily tasked with continental air defense, protecting American airspace from potential Soviet bomber threats. The 87th FIS was inactivated in 1985 as part of a general restructuring of Air Defense Command assets.

The 89th Special Air Mission traces its origins to the establishment of the 89th Airlift Wing in 1949, initially providing air transport and logistical support. Over the decades, the unit evolved to specialize in VIP and executive airlift, most notably operating aircraft for the President, Vice President, and other key government officials. Stationed at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, the 89th is renowned for its role in operating Air Force One and other distinguished visitors’ aircraft. Its history is marked by a commitment to excellence and discretion, supporting national leadership during both peacetime and crisis.

The 937th Engineer Group is a unit of the United States Army Reserve, originally constituted in 1943 during World War II. Activated as the 937th Engineer Aviation Regiment, the unit served in the China-Burma-India Theater, providing critical airfield construction and combat engineering support. After World War II, the group was reorganized and redesignated several times, ultimately becoming the 937th Engineer Group. Throughout its history, the 937th has participated in both domestic and overseas missions, supporting construction, disaster relief, and combat operations as part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Assault Craft Unit 5 (ACU-5), based at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, was commissioned in 1983 to support the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps amphibious operations. ACU-5 operates the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC), an innovative hovercraft capable of transporting heavy equipment, vehicles, and personnel from ship to shore at high speed. The unit has played a pivotal role in numerous exercises, humanitarian missions, and combat deployments, including Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. ACU-5 continues to enhance the Navy-Marine Corps team’s ability to conduct rapid, over-the-horizon amphibious assaults and logistical support worldwide.

The Fire Protection Specialist unit has its origins in the increased need for organized firefighting and emergency response within military installations during World War II, when airfields and depots became critical to operations. Recognizing the threat that fires posed to aircraft, munitions, and personnel, the U.S. military formally established dedicated fire protection teams. Over time, these specialists became highly trained in fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous materials handling, and disaster response, both in peacetime and during combat. Today, Fire Protection Specialists are an integral part of military readiness, ensuring safety and rapid emergency response across bases worldwide.

Fleet Air Wing 14 (FAW-14) was a United States Navy aviation unit established during World War II. Formed in 1944, FAW-14 operated maritime patrol aircraft in the Pacific Theater, conducting anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and long-range patrol missions. The wing played a crucial role in securing sea lanes and supporting Allied naval operations against Japanese forces. After the war, FAW-14 continued to serve in various capacities before being eventually disestablished as part of postwar reorganization.

**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.

**Headquarters United States Air Force (HQ USAF)** serves as the highest echelon of leadership within the U.S. Air Force, responsible for developing policies, plans, and programs to ensure mission readiness and effectiveness. Established as a distinct entity in September 1947 with the creation of the independent Air Force, HQ USAF assumed the central role in directing air operations, force structure, and strategic planning. Throughout the Cold War, HQ USAF guided the service through rapid technological advancements and global conflicts, from the Korean War to Operation Desert Storm. Today, HQ USAF continues to provide leadership, oversight, and strategic vision from the Pentagon, adapting to emerging threats and advancing airpower for the nation.

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.