U.S. Air Force

The 137th Special Operations Wing (137th SOW) is a unit of the Oklahoma Air National Guard stationed at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Originally established in 1950 as the 137th Fighter-Bomber Wing, it has undergone several mission changes over the decades, including periods as an airlift and air refueling unit. In 2015, the wing transitioned to its current special operations mission, operating the MC-12W Liberty aircraft to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support for special operations forces. The 137th SOW has supported both domestic operations and overseas deployments, demonstrating adaptability and excellence in a variety of missions throughout its distinguished history.

The 13th Tactical Fighter Wing (13th TFW) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Vietnam War era. Stationed primarily at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, the wing flew F-4 Phantom II aircraft and played a critical role in air combat and strike missions over Southeast Asia. The 13th TFW participated in numerous operations, including air interdiction, close air support, and aerial reconnaissance, contributing significantly to U.S. air efforts in Vietnam and neighboring countries. After the conclusion of major combat operations, the wing was inactivated, but its legacy continued through its squadrons and their distinguished combat records.

The 142nd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (AES) is a unit of the United States Air National Guard, originally established to provide rapid aeromedical evacuation support in both peacetime and combat environments. Activated in the late 20th century, the squadron has participated in numerous domestic and international operations, including humanitarian missions and support during conflicts such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The 142nd AES specializes in the medical care and transport of injured personnel aboard military aircraft, utilizing highly trained flight nurses and medical technicians. Renowned for its professionalism and adaptability, the unit continues to play a vital role in the Air National Guard’s medical and operational missions.

The 14th Airborne Combat Wing (14th ACW) was established in 1952 as part of the United States Air Force’s post-World War II reorganization, specializing in rapid deployment and airborne operations. Initially stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the unit gained distinction during the Korean War, executing several pivotal air assault and resupply missions behind enemy lines. Throughout the Cold War, the 14th ACW participated in major NATO exercises and provided humanitarian airlifts during international crises. The wing was eventually deactivated in 1974 following a broader force restructuring but is remembered for its versatility and valor in both combat and support roles.

The 14th Missile Warning Squadron (14 MWS) is a United States Space Force unit originally activated as part of the Air Force. Its lineage traces back to Cold War-era missile warning efforts, providing early detection of ballistic missile launches to defend North America. Stationed at Cavalier Space Force Station in North Dakota, the squadron operates the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS), a critical asset for missile warning, space surveillance, and space situational awareness. Over the decades, the 14 MWS has played a vital role in strategic deterrence and remains essential to the nation’s integrated missile defense network.

The 154th Combat Support Squadron is a unit of the Hawaii Air National Guard, based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Established to provide essential support services, the squadron’s mission encompasses logistics, engineering, personnel, and sustainment operations for the 154th Wing and its assigned units. Over the years, the 154th Combat Support Squadron has played a critical role in both state and federal missions, supporting disaster response, humanitarian aid, and overseas deployments. Its dedicated personnel ensure the operational readiness and effectiveness of Hawaii’s air defense and global reach capabilities.

The 15th Fighter Wing, originally activated in 1940, played a significant role during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces, operating primarily in the Pacific Theater. The wing earned distinction for its air defense and offensive operations, including protection of the Hawaiian Islands and participation in major campaigns against Japanese forces. After the war, the unit underwent several redesignations and missions, eventually transitioning to modern fighter aircraft and continuing its legacy of air superiority. Today, the 15th Wing, headquartered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, supports both combat and airlift operations, serving as a critical component of U.S. Pacific Air Forces.

The 16th Air Force was a numbered air force of the United States Air Force, established in July 1954 and headquartered at Torrejon Air Base, Spain. Its primary mission involved overseeing USAF operations and supporting NATO objectives in Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Mediterranean during the Cold War. The unit coordinated strategic reconnaissance, air defense, and tactical air operations, often working closely with Spanish military forces under bilateral agreements. The 16th Air Force remained a vital component of US and allied air power in the region until its relocation to Italy in 1992, marking the end of its era in Spain.

The 17th Aviation Group was activated on 15 November 1965 at Fort Benning, Georgia, to provide command and control of aviation units during the Vietnam War. Deployed to Vietnam in 1966, the group played a critical role in supporting airmobile operations, troop transport, and aerial reconnaissance for U.S. Army forces. Throughout its service, the 17th Aviation Group participated in major campaigns, including the Tet Offensive and various counterinsurgency operations. After distinguished service, the group was inactivated on 15 January 1973 following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Southeast Asia.

The 17th Bombardment Wing was first activated in 1940, serving with distinction during World War II in both the Mediterranean and European Theaters, flying B-26 Marauders. After the war, it was inactivated and reactivated several times, adapting to new missions and aircraft, including the B-47 Stratojet during the Cold War. In the 1950s, the wing was assigned to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, where it played a key role in Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrence efforts. The 17th Bombardment Wing was eventually inactivated in 1958 as part of a broader realignment of Air Force units and strategic assets.

The 182nd Airlift Wing, based at Peoria Air National Guard Base in Illinois, traces its origins to 1947, when it was established as the 182nd Fighter Squadron. Over the decades, the unit transitioned through various aircraft and missions, including tactical reconnaissance and fighter operations. In 1995, the wing shifted to an airlift mission, becoming equipped with the C-130 Hercules aircraft, and has since supported numerous domestic and overseas operations, including humanitarian relief and combat deployments. The 182nd Airlift Wing is recognized for its excellence in readiness and has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.

The 18th Medical Group, stationed at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, provides comprehensive medical support to the largest combat wing in the U.S. Air Force, the 18th Wing. Established to ensure the health and readiness of military personnel and their families, the unit delivers a full spectrum of medical, dental, and preventive care services. Throughout its history, the 18th Medical Group has played a critical role in supporting both routine operations and contingency missions in the Indo-Pacific region. Its dedicated staff has consistently earned recognition for excellence in patient care, operational readiness, and humanitarian assistance.

The 190th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) is a unit of the Kansas Air National Guard, stationed at Forbes Field Air National Guard Base in Topeka, Kansas. Established in 1962 as the 190th Tactical Reconnaissance Group, the unit transitioned to an air refueling mission in 1978, operating the KC-135 Stratotanker. Throughout its history, the 190th ARW has supported numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing vital aerial refueling capabilities to U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. The Wing continues to play a crucial role in both national defense and state emergency response missions.

1911 Communications Squadron is a unit within the Royal Canadian Air Force, established in the post-Second World War era to provide robust communications and information systems support. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the squadron plays a key role in ensuring secure and reliable communications for military operations, both domestically and internationally. Over the decades, 1911 Communications Squadron has supported a range of missions, including NATO deployments, disaster response, and Canadian sovereignty operations. The squadron’s expertise in rapidly deploying and maintaining advanced communication networks continues to be vital to the effectiveness of the Canadian Armed Forces.

The 1923rd Communication Squadron was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing essential communications support to military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a pivotal role in maintaining secure and reliable communication lines at its assigned base, often supporting airlift and logistics missions. Throughout its service, the 1923rd Communication Squadron adapted to evolving technologies, ensuring critical command and control capabilities for U.S. Air Force operations. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and technological advancements within the Air Force communications structure.

The 1934th Army Airways Communications System Squadron (AACS) was activated during World War II as part of the Army Air Forces' expanding global communications network. Tasked with providing vital air-to-ground and ground-to-ground communications, the 1934th AACS supported air operations by ensuring reliable navigational aids and radio communications at key airfields. During its service, the unit played a crucial role in maintaining safe and efficient air traffic flow, especially in remote or newly established theaters of operation. Following the war, the squadron continued its mission under the Air Force, eventually becoming part of the Air Force Communications Service before being inactivated or redesignated as communications technology evolved.

The 1999th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit active during the Cold War era. Tasked with providing vital communications support, the squadron operated from various strategic locations, ensuring secure and reliable transmission of information for command and control functions. The unit played a crucial role in maintaining communication networks for both tactical and administrative operations within its assigned theater. Over time, as military communications technology evolved, the 1999th Communications Squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force restructuring efforts.

The 19th Military Airlift Squadron (19th MAS) traces its origins to World War II, when it was first activated as the 19th Air Corps Ferrying Squadron in 1942. The unit played a vital role in transporting aircraft and essential supplies across the Atlantic and to various theaters of operations. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron became part of the Military Airlift Command, operating large cargo aircraft such as the C-124 Globemaster II to support global airlift missions. The 19th MAS was inactivated in 1969, leaving a legacy of reliable air mobility in support of U.S. military operations worldwide.

The 1st Air Commando Group was formed in 1943 during World War II as a United States Army Air Forces unit specializing in unconventional warfare and support for allied forces behind enemy lines. Originally created to support British Chindit operations in Burma, the group pioneered the use of air transport for long-range penetration, glider insertions, and aerial resupply missions deep in Japanese-held territory. Under the leadership of Colonels Philip G. Cochran and John R. Alison, the unit employed a diverse array of aircraft, including P-51 Mustangs, C-47 transports, and gliders, to execute daring operations that helped disrupt Japanese supply lines. The 1st Air Commando Group’s innovative tactics laid the groundwork for modern Air Force special operations and remains a celebrated example of airpower in support of special operations forces.

The 1st Special Operations Wing (1 SOW) is a premier unit of the United States Air Force, headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Originally activated in 1944 as the 1st Air Commando Group, it played a crucial role in supporting Allied operations in the China-Burma-India Theater during World War II. Reactivated and redesignated several times, the wing has participated in numerous conflicts, including Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, and the Global War on Terrorism. Today, the 1 SOW specializes in unconventional warfare, precision strike, and special operations, providing unique airpower capabilities to U.S. Special Operations Command worldwide.

The 2050th Communications Squadron was a United States Air Force unit tasked with providing critical communications support to various Air Force operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for maintaining secure and reliable communication networks, both stateside and in overseas deployments. Throughout its service, the 2050th played an essential role in supporting command and control functions, ensuring mission readiness through the management of advanced communications technology. The squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force organizational changes, but its legacy endures in the modern communications units that followed.

The 210th Artillery Group was first constituted in 1944 and activated during World War II, playing a vital role in providing artillery support to Allied forces in the European Theater. After the war, the unit underwent several redesignations and activations, including significant service during the Cold War as part of U.S. Army Europe, stationed in Germany to bolster NATO defenses. In the late 20th century, the 210th Artillery Group was reorganized as the 210th Field Artillery Brigade, later deploying in support of operations in Southwest Asia, including Operation Iraqi Freedom. Throughout its history, the unit has been recognized for its professionalism and effectiveness in delivering fire support across multiple conflicts.

The 22nd Combat Defense Squadron was an Air Force unit responsible for providing security and ground defense for air base operations. Activated in the early Cold War era, the squadron was typically assigned to protect strategic bomber and missile installations against potential enemy incursions. Its members specialized in base defense tactics, weapons proficiency, and rapid response to security threats, often training alongside other Air Force Security Police units. The squadron played a key role in ensuring the operational readiness and security of U.S. Air Force assets during periods of heightened tension, before being inactivated or redesignated as the Air Force evolved its security forces structure.

The 26th Cyberspace Operations Group (26th CSG), headquartered at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, traces its lineage to the 26th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, originally activated in 1952. Over the decades, the unit has undergone several redesignations and mission changes, reflecting the evolving nature of warfare. In its current form, the 26th CSG is responsible for conducting cyberspace operations in support of United States Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA). The group plays a vital role in defending critical networks, supporting NATO allies, and ensuring the cyber readiness of forward-deployed and allied forces in the European theater.