U.S. Air Force

The Weather Squadron is a specialized military unit dedicated to providing meteorological support for operations and planning. Originating in the early 20th century, weather squadrons gained prominence during World War II, when accurate weather forecasting became critical for mission success, including the planning of the D-Day invasion. Over the decades, these units have evolved to incorporate advanced technology, offering real-time data on atmospheric conditions for air, land, and sea forces. Today, Weather Squadrons remain essential, enabling commanders to make informed decisions and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations worldwide.

The 108th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Group was a key U.S. Army air defense unit stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany, during the Cold War. Activated in the post-World War II era, the group was tasked with providing air defense for U.S. and NATO forces in Western Europe, operating systems such as the Nike Hercules and later the HAWK missile. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the 108th ADA Group played a crucial role in maintaining the security of critical infrastructure and supporting deterrence efforts against potential Warsaw Pact air threats. The unit’s presence in Kaiserslautern underscored the strategic importance of the Rhineland-Palatinate region in NATO’s integrated defense network.

The **10th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing** was a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated in 1947. During the Cold War, the wing was stationed at RAF Alconbury in England and played a critical role in providing tactical aerial reconnaissance for NATO forces in Europe. Flying aircraft such as the RF-4C Phantom II, the wing conducted intelligence-gathering missions, photographic reconnaissance, and electronic surveillance throughout its operational years. The 10th TRW was inactivated in 1992 following the end of the Cold War, capping decades of vital contributions to U.S. and allied military intelligence operations.

The 118th Civil Engineer Squadron (118th CES) is a unit of the Tennessee Air National Guard, assigned to the 118th Wing based at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Tennessee. Established in 1956, the 118th CES has provided critical engineering, construction, emergency management, and disaster response support for both state and federal missions. The squadron has deployed personnel and resources in support of overseas operations, such as Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, as well as domestic disaster relief efforts including hurricane and flood responses. Throughout its history, the 118th CES has played a vital role in ensuring mission readiness and base infrastructure, upholding its commitment to both national defense and community support.

The 126th Combat Support Squadron is a unit of the Air National Guard, historically aligned under the 126th Air Refueling Wing based at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois. Established to provide critical support functions, the squadron has played a vital role in ensuring operational readiness for aerial refueling missions and base operations. Over the years, the 126th Combat Support Squadron has deployed personnel and resources in support of both domestic and overseas contingencies, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Its members are trained in a wide range of specialties, contributing to the overall mission effectiveness of the wing and supporting both state and federal military objectives.

The 129th Air Rescue, originally established as the 129th Air Resupply Group in 1955, is a distinguished unit of the California Air National Guard. Over its history, the unit transitioned to an air rescue mission, becoming the 129th Air Rescue and Recovery Group in 1975. The 129th has conducted combat search and rescue, humanitarian relief, and disaster response missions both domestically and overseas, notably saving hundreds of lives during peacetime and in conflict zones. Equipped with HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters and HC-130J Combat King II aircraft, the unit continues to provide vital lifesaving capabilities worldwide.

The 1360th Services Squadron was a support unit within the United States Air Force, activated during the early years of the Cold War. It was assigned to provide essential services—including food, lodging, and recreation—to personnel at bases under the jurisdiction of the Military Air Transport Service (MATS). The squadron played a vital role in maintaining morale and operational effectiveness for airmen supporting critical airlift and logistics missions. Throughout its existence, the 1360th Services Squadron adapted to evolving Air Force requirements before its eventual inactivation or redesignation as part of broader organizational changes.

The 1400th Air Base Wing was a United States Air Force unit established to provide base support services, primarily at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Activated in 1948, the wing's primary mission was to offer logistical, administrative, and operational support to various tenant organizations, including Air University. Throughout its history, the 1400th Air Base Wing played a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and efficiency of Maxwell AFB, supporting training and educational missions. The unit was eventually discontinued in 1992 as the Air Force restructured its support organizations.

The 1502nd Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was a vital support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily active during the Cold War era. Stationed at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, the 1502nd FMS provided essential aircraft maintenance and logistical support to the 1502nd Air Transport Wing, ensuring the readiness of long-range transport aircraft such as the C-97 Stratofreighter. The unit played a significant role in supporting airlift operations across the Pacific, contributing to missions ranging from troop deployments to humanitarian relief efforts. In 1966, the squadron was inactivated as part of a broader reorganization of airlift and maintenance units within the Military Air Transport Service (MATS).

The 150th Fighter Wing, originally established as the 150th Fighter Group in 1957, is a unit of the New Mexico Air National Guard based at Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Throughout its history, the wing has operated a variety of fighter aircraft, including the F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, and F-16 Fighting Falcon. The unit has participated in multiple federal activations, supporting both overseas deployments and homeland defense missions. In 2010, the unit transitioned from a flying mission to an associate role as the 150th Special Operations Wing, partnering with the active-duty 58th Special Operations Wing to provide training and support in special operations and search and rescue.

The 155th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) is a unit of the Nebraska Air National Guard, stationed at Lincoln Air National Guard Base in Lincoln, Nebraska. Originally established in 1960 as the 155th Fighter Group, the unit has undergone several mission changes, transitioning from fighter and reconnaissance roles to air refueling in 1992. Equipped with the KC-135R Stratotanker, the 155th ARW provides aerial refueling support to U.S. and allied aircraft, enhancing global reach and operational flexibility. The wing has supported numerous operations, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and continues to play a vital role in both state and federal missions.

The 15th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (15th OMS) was an integral support unit stationed at Hickam Air Force Base, Honolulu, Hawaii. Activated as part of the 15th Air Base Wing, the squadron provided essential aircraft maintenance and ground support for a variety of transient and assigned aircraft, ensuring mission readiness in the Pacific theater. Throughout its tenure, the 15th OMS played a critical role during the Cold War and in supporting operations and exercises across the Asia-Pacific region. Its legacy endures as part of Hickam’s long-standing commitment to U.S. Air Force operational excellence in the Indo-Pacific.

The 1776 Security Police was activated in the late 1960s as part of the United States Air Force’s expanding need for dedicated base security during the Cold War. Stationed primarily at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, the unit was tasked with safeguarding critical assets, including aircraft, munitions, and sensitive facilities. Throughout its operational history, the 1776 Security Police participated in numerous readiness exercises and provided security support for both stateside and overseas deployments. The unit earned commendations for its professionalism and played a vital role in Air Force law enforcement and anti-terrorism operations until its eventual reorganization under the Air Force Security Forces structure.

The 183rd Fighter Wing is a unit of the Illinois Air National Guard, stationed at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois. Established in 1962, the wing has flown various fighter aircraft, including the F-84F Thunderstreak, F-4 Phantom II, and F-16 Fighting Falcon, supporting both state and federal missions. The 183rd has participated in numerous operations, such as Operation Northern Watch and Operation Southern Watch, providing air defense and combat capabilities. In recent years, the wing’s mission has transitioned to focus on air operations support and cyber operations following the retirement of its fighter jets in 2008.

The 1880th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing critical communications support to military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron managed and maintained secure lines of communication, ensuring operational readiness and mission success for its assigned base and supported units. Throughout its history, the 1880th played a vital role in upgrading and operating advanced communication systems, adapting to evolving technological demands. The squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader USAF communications restructuring, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in military communications support.

The 1st SOCOM 4th PSYOPS 1st Group (Airborne) is a specialized psychological operations unit operating under the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Established to conduct information and influence operations, the unit leverages airborne capabilities to deploy rapidly in support of joint and combined missions worldwide. Throughout its history, the group has played a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and behaviors in operational environments, supporting U.S. objectives from the Balkans and Iraq to modern engagements in the Indo-Pacific. Renowned for its expertise in psychological warfare, the 1st SOCOM 4th PSYOPS 1st Group (ABN) continues to adapt to evolving threats in the information domain.

The 1st Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment (1-2 ACR) boasts a distinguished military history dating back to its formation in the 19th century. Originally established to perform reconnaissance and security missions, the squadron played key roles in various conflicts, including the Indian Wars, World War II, and the Cold War, often stationed along the front lines in Europe. During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, 1-2 ACR was instrumental in leading the VII Corps’ advance, conducting deep reconnaissance and security operations in Iraq and Kuwait. In the 21st century, the unit has continued to serve with distinction, deploying to the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan in support of peacekeeping and combat operations.

The 20th Bomb Squadron, established in 1917, is one of the oldest bomber units in the United States Air Force. It served with distinction in World War I, flying combat missions over France, and later participated in strategic bombing campaigns during World War II. The squadron played a crucial role during the Cold War, operating B-52 Stratofortress bombers as part of America’s nuclear deterrence force. Today, the 20th Bomb Squadron continues its legacy from Barksdale Air Force Base, maintaining global strike capabilities and readiness.

The 2140th Communications Squadron (2140 CS) was a United States Air Force communications unit assigned to the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and stationed at RAF Croughton, United Kingdom. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron played a critical role in maintaining secure and reliable communications between U.S. and NATO forces throughout Europe. The 2140 CS was responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of communications and electronic equipment, supporting both peacetime and contingency operations. Its mission contributed significantly to the effectiveness of command and control within the USAFE theater until the squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader organizational changes.

The 22nd Tactical Air Support Squadron (22nd TASS) was originally constituted as the 22nd Observation Squadron in 1942, serving in World War II in reconnaissance and artillery spotting roles. Reactivated during the Vietnam War, it became known for its Forward Air Control (FAC) missions, directing air strikes and supporting ground operations primarily in Southeast Asia. Flying aircraft such as the O-1 Bird Dog and OV-10 Bronco, the 22nd TASS played a crucial role in coordinating close air support for U.S. and allied forces. The squadron was inactivated after the conflict, leaving a legacy of innovation in tactical air support and FAC operations.

The 23rd Fighter Wing (23rd FW) is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II as the 23rd Fighter Group, famously inheriting the legacy of the "Flying Tigers" in China. Throughout its history, the wing has operated a variety of aircraft, including the P-40 Warhawk, F-105 Thunderchief, and currently the A-10C Thunderbolt II. The 23rd FW has seen action in numerous conflicts, from the China-Burma-India Theater in WWII to modern-day operations in the Middle East. Today, the wing is based at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, where it continues its mission of close air support, search and rescue, and combat airpower projection.

The 23rd Security Forces Squadron (23rd SFS) serves as the primary law enforcement and security unit for Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. Activated in its current form alongside the 23rd Wing, the unit traces its heritage to earlier military police and air police squadrons that supported base defense during the Cold War. The 23rd SFS is tasked with force protection, anti-terrorism, and safeguarding critical Air Force assets, including personnel, aircraft, and infrastructure. Over the years, its members have deployed worldwide in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, earning recognition for their professionalism and dedication to base and expeditionary security.

The 24th Air Defense Squadron (24th ADS) was a United States Air Force unit primarily tasked with command and control of air defense operations. Activated in 1994, the squadron was stationed at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Colorado, where it played a critical role in monitoring and defending North American airspace as part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). The 24th ADS operated advanced radar and communications systems, providing real-time data to support national air sovereignty. The unit was inactivated in 2008, with its mission and responsibilities transferred to other command and control organizations within NORAD and USNORTHCOM.

The 26th Air Defense unit was originally activated during the Cold War era to provide critical air defense coverage for key strategic locations. Tasked with operating advanced radar and missile systems, the unit played a vital role in detecting and intercepting potential aerial threats. Over the years, the 26th Air Defense adapted to evolving technologies, integrating new surface-to-air missile platforms and command systems. Today, the unit remains an essential component of national defense, maintaining readiness to protect airspace against modern airborne threats.