U.S. Air Force

The 4th Medical Group (4th Med Group) is a key medical support unit assigned to the 4th Fighter Wing, stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. Established to provide comprehensive healthcare to military personnel and their families, the unit has a proud history of delivering both routine and emergency medical services. Throughout its history, the 4th Med Group has played a vital role in supporting combat readiness, deploying medical teams in support of global operations and humanitarian missions. Its dedication to excellence has earned it numerous awards for outstanding performance and patient care.

The 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (509th AMS) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Activated in 1993, the squadron was established to provide dedicated maintenance support for the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, ensuring its readiness and operational effectiveness. The 509th AMS plays a crucial role in the success of the 509th Bomb Wing's strategic deterrence and global strike missions. Over the years, the unit has earned numerous accolades for its technical expertise and unwavering commitment to supporting one of the Air Force’s most advanced aircraft.

The 549th CAMS (Component Repair Squadron), originally designated as the 549th Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was activated to provide maintenance and logistical support for USAF aircraft operations. During the Vietnam War, the unit was stationed at Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, supporting F-105 Thunderchief and later F-111 Aardvark combat missions. The squadron was responsible for intermediate-level maintenance, ensuring aircraft readiness and mission capability in a high-tempo combat environment. The 549th CAMS played a critical role in sustaining air operations until it was inactivated as the U.S. withdrew its forces from Thailand in the mid-1970s.

The 556th RED HORSE Squadron (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) is a specialized United States Air Force civil engineering unit. Activated during the Vietnam War in 1966, the squadron was initially stationed at Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, where it provided rapid construction, repair, and maintenance of airfields and facilities under combat conditions. The 556th distinguished itself by swiftly building critical infrastructure in austere environments, often under enemy fire. After its Vietnam service, the unit was inactivated in 1972, but its legacy continues through other active RED HORSE units that uphold its tradition of engineering excellence in support of Air Force missions worldwide.

The 56th Civil Engineer Squadron (56th CES) is a unit of the United States Air Force based at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. The squadron's origins trace back to the support of airfield operations and base infrastructure for the 56th Fighter Wing, primarily ensuring readiness for pilot training missions. Over the years, 56th CES has been instrumental in executing construction, emergency response, and environmental stewardship both at home station and during deployed operations. The squadron has earned recognition for excellence in providing engineering support, disaster response, and sustaining mission-critical facilities for the Air Force.

The 56th Security Police Squadron - K9, based at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, has a distinguished history providing vital security and force protection for United States Air Force assets and personnel. Activated during the Cold War era, the unit integrated military working dog teams to enhance its capabilities in detecting explosives, narcotics, and unauthorized intrusions. Throughout its service, the 56th SPS K9 teams have deployed in support of various operations, both stateside and overseas, including during heightened threat conditions and contingency operations. Their expertise in canine handling has contributed significantly to base defense, law enforcement, and the overall mission readiness of the 56th Fighter Wing.

The 56th Weather Recon Unit was a specialized meteorological unit within the United States Air Force, established during the early years of the Cold War. Its primary mission was to conduct weather reconnaissance flights, often flying modified aircraft into hazardous weather conditions to gather critical atmospheric data for military operations and strategic planning. The unit played a vital role in improving weather forecasting accuracy for air missions and ballistic missile launches. The 56th Weather Recon Unit was eventually inactivated as advances in satellite technology reduced the need for manned weather reconnaissance flights.

The 6100th Logistics Support Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, established in the post-World War II era. It was activated to provide vital logistics, maintenance, and support services for U.S. Air Force operations in the Pacific region, particularly supporting bases and missions in Japan and the Far East. The squadron played a key role in ensuring the readiness and sustainment of aircraft and equipment during the early Cold War years. Eventually, the unit was inactivated or redesignated as part of broader USAF organizational changes in the region.

The 6510th Air Base Group was a support unit of the United States Air Force, established at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Activated in the early 1950s, its primary mission was to provide base operations and logistical support for the Air Force Flight Test Center. Throughout its existence, the group played a crucial role in supporting experimental and developmental flight testing, contributing to advancements in aerospace technology during the Cold War era. The 6510th Air Base Group was eventually inactivated and redesignated as part of organizational changes within the Air Force in the 1990s.

The 667th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Sq) was a United States Air Force unit activated on December 8, 1949. Stationed at Lajes Field in the Azores, Portugal, its primary mission was to provide early warning radar surveillance and air defense for the North Atlantic region during the early years of the Cold War. The squadron played a key role in monitoring air traffic and potential threats, supporting both U.S. and NATO operations. The 667th AC&W Squadron was inactivated on June 1, 1961, as advances in radar technology and changes in strategic priorities rendered some overseas warning sites less critical.

The 6947th Security Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in the mid-1950s during the height of the Cold War. Stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas, the squadron was part of the Air Force Security Service (USAFSS), specializing in signals intelligence (SIGINT) and electronic surveillance operations. Its primary mission involved intercepting and analyzing foreign communications, contributing valuable intelligence to national defense and strategic planning. The 6947th played a crucial role in monitoring Soviet and other adversary activities until its inactivation and eventual consolidation with other intelligence units as the Air Force restructured its cryptologic operations.

The 7333rd United States Air Force Hospital (7333 USAF Hosp) was an Air Force medical unit stationed at various locations in Europe during the Cold War. It provided comprehensive medical, dental, and emergency services to U.S. military personnel, their families, and eligible civilians stationed overseas. The hospital played a vital role in supporting the readiness and health of Air Force units, especially those assigned to the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE). Throughout its existence, the 7333rd USAF Hospital adapted to changing medical technologies and operational demands, ensuring the well-being of service members during both peacetime and periods of heightened tension.

The 7th Avionics Maintenance Squadron (7th AMS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for maintaining and repairing avionics systems on assigned aircraft. Activated in the mid-20th century, it was primarily based at Carswell Air Force Base, Texas, under the 7th Bombardment Wing. The squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and other aircraft during the Cold War era. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of organizational restructuring and advancements in aircraft maintenance processes.

The **848th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (848th AC&W Sq)** was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Pacific Air Forces (PACAF). Activated in the early 1950s during the Cold War, the squadron played a vital role in air defense, operating radar sites in the Pacific theater to detect and track potential aerial threats. It was primarily stationed in Japan, including assignments at sites such as Kamiseya Air Station. The 848th contributed to regional security and early warning capabilities until it was inactivated in the early 1960s as radar defense strategies evolved.

The 8th Air Force (8 AF), part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), was originally activated during World War II in 1942 and quickly became one of the most powerful air forces, conducting strategic bombing campaigns over Nazi-occupied Europe. After the war, it was assigned to the newly formed SAC in 1946, focusing on nuclear deterrence and long-range strategic bombing during the Cold War. Throughout the decades, the 8th AF maintained a constant state of readiness, operating heavy bombers such as the B-47, B-52, and later the B-1 and B-2. Its legacy continues today as a key component of America's strategic airpower, now operating under the Air Force Global Strike Command.

The 8th Air Force Bomb Wing traces its origins to World War II as part of the Eighth Air Force, renowned for its strategic bombing campaigns over Nazi-occupied Europe. Established officially as the 8th Bomb Wing in the postwar era, the unit became a key component of Strategic Air Command during the Cold War, operating a variety of heavy bombers, including the B-29 Superfortress and later the B-52 Stratofortress. Throughout its history, the wing has participated in numerous significant operations, from the Korean and Vietnam Wars to modern deterrence and global strike missions. Today, the legacy of the 8th Air Force Bomb Wing endures through its commitment to maintaining global reach and combat readiness for the United States Air Force.

The 8th Bomb Squadron, known as the "Blackbirds," was activated in 1917 and is one of the oldest U.S. Air Force bomb squadrons. The unit saw action in World War I, flying combat missions in France, and later participated in significant campaigns during World War II, including operations in the Pacific Theater. During the Vietnam War, the squadron conducted bombing missions with B-57 Canberra and later B-52 Stratofortress aircraft. Today, the 8th Bomb Squadron is stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, operating the B-52H Stratofortress as part of the 2nd Bomb Wing, maintaining global strike capabilities.

The 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron (AWACS) is a United States Air Force unit established in 1955, originally as the 961st Airborne Early Warning and Control Squadron. Stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan, the squadron operates E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft, providing airborne surveillance, command, control, and communications for U.S. and allied forces in the Pacific region. The 961st AWACS has played a critical role in regional security, participating in numerous joint and multinational exercises, and supporting combat operations such as Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom. Its enduring mission contributes significantly to the air defense and situational awareness capabilities of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

The 99th Logistics Readiness Squadron (99 LRS) is a key support unit assigned to the 99th Air Base Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. Established to provide comprehensive logistics, supply, transportation, and deployment support, the 99 LRS plays a critical role in sustaining the operational readiness of Nellis AFB and its tenant units. Over the years, the squadron has supported numerous high-visibility exercises, such as Red Flag and Green Flag, ensuring the rapid movement and sustainment of personnel, equipment, and aircraft. Through its dedicated mission, the 99th Logistics Readiness Squadron continues to enable the Air Force's operational effectiveness both at home and abroad.

**Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC) Military History:** The Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC) was established in 1961 as a major command of the United States Air Force, responsible for providing logistics support, maintenance, and supply management for Air Force operations worldwide. AFLC played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, ensuring that aircraft and equipment were maintained and supplied efficiently. Throughout the Cold War, the command oversaw the development and distribution of spare parts, munitions, and logistical innovations that enhanced the USAF’s global readiness. In 1992, AFLC was inactivated and its functions were merged with the Air Force Systems Command to form the Air Force Materiel Command, streamlining logistics and acquisition processes for the modern era.

Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 7 (HC-7), known as the "Sea Devils," was a distinguished U.S. Navy helicopter squadron established in September 1967. Primarily tasked with combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions during the Vietnam War, HC-7 operated from aircraft carriers and forward bases throughout the Western Pacific. The squadron played a critical role in rescuing downed pilots, saving over 150 lives under hostile conditions. HC-7 was decommissioned in June 1975, earning multiple commendations for its valor and service.

Selfridge Air National Guard Base, located in Harrison Township, Michigan, has served as a key military installation since its establishment in 1917 as Selfridge Field. Originally opened as a training base for pilots during World War I, Selfridge has played a pivotal role in American air defense throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Over the decades, it has hosted a variety of units, including the 127th Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard, and supported missions ranging from fighter operations to air refueling and homeland security. Today, Selfridge ANGB remains a vital hub for joint military and reserve operations, contributing significantly to national defense and disaster response efforts.

TUSLOG Detachment 175 was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the TUSLOG (The United States Logistics Group) organization in Turkey during the Cold War. Established in the early 1950s, Det 175 was primarily located at Incirlik Air Base, serving as a key logistics and support unit for U.S. and NATO operations in the region. Its responsibilities included supply management, administrative support, and facilitating joint operations between Turkish and American forces. The detachment played a crucial role in maintaining U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East until its eventual inactivation as American presence in Turkey was reorganized in the late 20th century.

The Vandenberg AFB AeroSpace Support Group was an essential unit stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, established to provide operational and logistical support for space and missile launch activities. Activated during the height of the Cold War, the group played a crucial role in preparing launch facilities, maintaining equipment, and ensuring mission readiness for intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) tests and satellite launches. Its personnel supported numerous historic launches, contributing to both national defense initiatives and space exploration efforts. The group's mission and structure evolved over time, reflecting advancements in aerospace technology and changing strategic priorities, before its eventual inactivation or reorganization under the broader United States Space Force structure.