U.S. Air Force

The 45th Fighter Squadron, originally activated in 1940, is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force. During World War II, the squadron served in the Pacific Theater, flying P-40 Warhawks and later P-47 Thunderbolts in combat operations against Japanese forces. After several inactivations and reactivations, the squadron transitioned through various aircraft and missions throughout the Cold War and into the modern era. Today, the 45th Fighter Squadron operates as part of the Air Force Reserve, flying A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and providing close air support and combat-ready pilots for global deployments.

**4713 DSES (Defense Systems Evaluation Squadron)** was a specialized United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era. Its primary mission centered on providing electronic warfare training and evaluation for air defense units, simulating enemy electronic threats to enhance USAF readiness. The squadron operated a variety of modified aircraft equipped with advanced electronic countermeasure systems to test and challenge U.S. air defense radar and missile sites. Throughout its existence, 4713 DSES played a vital role in improving the effectiveness and survivability of American air defense forces before its eventual inactivation.

The 4756th Munitions Maintenance Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era. Assigned to support various tactical and strategic operations, the squadron was primarily responsible for the maintenance, storage, and handling of munitions, including nuclear and conventional ordnance. Stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, the unit played a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of the munitions stockpiles for training and potential deployment. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and restructuring within the Air Force’s munitions and maintenance commands.

The 48th Air Rescue Squadron (48 ARS) was originally constituted as the 48th Air Rescue Squadron in 1952 and activated at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Its primary mission was to conduct search and rescue (SAR) operations, providing life-saving support for both military and civilian personnel. Throughout its history, the unit was equipped with various rescue aircraft and helicopters, adapting to evolving mission requirements. The squadron was inactivated in 1960, but its legacy continues through the broader tradition of USAF rescue operations.

The 484th Field Maintenance Squadron (484th FMS) was an integral support unit within the United States Air Force, most notably associated with the 484th Bombardment Wing at Turner Air Force Base, Georgia, during the Cold War era. Established during the 1960s, the 484th FMS provided essential aircraft maintenance, repair, and logistical support for the wing’s fleet of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers. The squadron was instrumental in maintaining mission readiness and operational effectiveness, particularly during heightened periods of alert under the Strategic Air Command. The unit was inactivated in the late 1960s as part of broader Air Force realignments and base closures.

The 4925th Test Group (Atomic) was a specialized unit of the United States Air Force established in 1948 and based at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Its primary mission was to conduct airborne testing and evaluation of atomic weapons, including their delivery methods and effects, during the early years of the Cold War. The group played a key role in Operation Sandstone and subsequent nuclear test series, helping to develop and refine tactics and procedures for nuclear warfare. The 4925th Test Group remained active until 1961, when its responsibilities were absorbed by other units as nuclear testing and delivery systems evolved.

The 493rd Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS), known as the "Grim Reapers," was originally activated during World War II as part of the 48th Fighter Group. The squadron participated in the European Theater, providing fighter escort and ground attack missions in support of Allied operations. Reactivated during the Cold War, the 493rd TFS became a key component of United States Air Forces in Europe, primarily stationed at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom. Over the years, the unit transitioned through various aircraft, including the F-100 Super Sabre, F-4 Phantom II, F-111 Aardvark, and most recently, the F-15C/D Eagle, maintaining a reputation for operational excellence and readiness.

The 496th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (FIS) was an active United States Air Force unit primarily tasked with air defense missions during the Cold War. Activated in 1943, it originally trained pilots and provided air defense for the northeastern United States during World War II before being inactivated in 1944. The squadron was reactivated in 1951 and stationed at various bases in Europe, including Hahn and later Ramstein Air Base in West Germany, as part of NATO's air defense network. The 496th FIS operated several aircraft over its history, notably the F-86 Sabre and F-102 Delta Dagger, until its final inactivation in 1968.

The 50th Tactical Hospital was an integral medical unit assigned to Hahn Air Base, Germany, during the Cold War era. Activated as part of the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing, its primary mission was to provide comprehensive medical care and emergency services to U.S. Air Force personnel, their families, and NATO partners stationed at the base. The hospital maintained high readiness levels, supporting both routine healthcare and rapid response in times of crisis or heightened alert. Throughout its service, the 50th TAC Hospital played a vital role in sustaining the operational effectiveness and well-being of the military community at Hahn AFB until the base's closure in the early 1990s.

The 513th Supply Squadron was a logistics unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during the Cold War era. Its primary mission was to provide comprehensive supply and materiel support to its parent wing, ensuring operational readiness and efficient maintenance of aircraft and equipment. The squadron played a vital role in supporting various Air Force operations, both at home and abroad, contributing to the effectiveness of U.S. air power during periods of heightened tension. Over the years, the 513th Supply Squadron underwent several organizational changes before eventually being inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force logistics restructuring efforts.

The 513th Transportation Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era to provide critical logistical and transportation support. Initially assigned to strategic airlift missions, the squadron played a vital role in moving personnel, equipment, and supplies to support USAF operations worldwide. Throughout its service, the 513th was stationed at various bases and participated in numerous exercises and contingency operations, enhancing the mobility and readiness of the Air Force. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of post-Cold War force restructuring, leaving a legacy of reliable service in military transportation history.

The 514th Maintenance Squadron (514 FMS) is a key unit within the 514th Air Mobility Wing, based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (formerly McGuire AFB), New Jersey. Established as part of the Air Force Reserve, the squadron provides comprehensive maintenance and support for the wing’s air mobility mission, servicing aircraft such as the KC-10 Extender and C-17 Globemaster III. Throughout its history, the 514 FMS has supported numerous global operations, including airlift and refueling missions during major contingencies and humanitarian relief efforts. The squadron continues to uphold a tradition of excellence, ensuring mission readiness and operational effectiveness for U.S. Air Force air mobility operations.

The 522nd Tactical Fighter Squadron, originally constituted as the 16th Bombardment Squadron (Light) in 1940, has a distinguished history in the United States Air Force. The unit saw extensive combat in World War II, operating in the Mediterranean and European theaters, and later participated in the Korean War, flying attack missions. Redesignated several times, the squadron transitioned to jet aircraft and played a vital role during the Cold War, serving as a frontline tactical fighter unit. The 522nd continued its legacy into the modern era before its inactivation in 2007 at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico.

The 52nd Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was an integral support unit of the United States Air Force, historically assigned to the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Activated during the Cold War, the 52nd FMS provided essential aircraft maintenance, ensuring the operational readiness of fighter jets such as the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The squadron played a critical role in NATO defense operations, supporting deterrence and rapid response missions throughout Europe. In the 1990s, as part of an Air Force-wide reorganization, its functions were merged into consolidated maintenance groups to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

The 53rd Tactical Fighter Squadron was an operational unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II. It first saw action as the 53rd Fighter Squadron, flying P-47 Thunderbolts in the European Theater. After the war, the squadron was reactivated during the Cold War and assigned to various tactical fighter roles, transitioning to aircraft such as the F-100 Super Sabre and later the F-4 Phantom II. The unit played a significant part in NATO operations during its tenure in Europe before eventually being inactivated in the early 1990s as part of post-Cold War force reductions.

The 550th Air Tactical Wing was an important unit of the Philippine Air Force, established in the 1970s to enhance the country’s airlift and tactical transport capabilities. Headquartered at Villamor Air Base, the wing was tasked with providing air mobility, logistical support, and tactical airlift for troops and equipment across the archipelago. Throughout its service, the 550th ATW operated various transport aircraft, including the C-130 Hercules and Nomad planes, supporting both military operations and humanitarian missions. The unit played a vital role in internal security operations and disaster response before it was eventually reorganized and its functions absorbed into other PAF units.

The 57th Transportation Squadron, stationed at Nellis Air Force Base, has played a critical role in supporting the United States Air Force’s operational readiness. Established to provide comprehensive ground transportation, cargo movement, and vehicle management, the unit ensures seamless logistical support for both personnel and equipment. Throughout its history, the 57th Transportation Squadron has supported major training exercises such as Red Flag, as well as daily missions essential to Nellis AFB’s operations. Their dedication and expertise contribute significantly to the effectiveness and mobility of the base’s diverse mission sets.

The 58th Air Rescue Squadron was first constituted during the Cold War era, activated on 18 January 1952, and assigned to the Air Rescue Service of the United States Air Force. The unit specialized in search and rescue operations, providing critical support for downed aircrew and conducting humanitarian missions. Throughout its history, the 58th Air Rescue Squadron operated a variety of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, adapting to evolving mission requirements and technological advancements. The squadron’s legacy is marked by its dedication to saving lives and its readiness to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.

The 5th Tactical Control Group was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Korean War era. Established in 1949, its primary mission was to provide tactical air control, directing close air support and coordinating air operations for ground forces. The unit played a pivotal role in the early stages of the Korean conflict, facilitating effective air-ground communications and enhancing battlefield coordination. After distinguished service, the 5th Tactical Control Group was inactivated in 1954, with its lineage and responsibilities absorbed by successor tactical control organizations.

The 5th Weather Wing was a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing weather support to Air Force and Army units, primarily during the Cold War. Activated in 1948, it played a crucial role in meteorological forecasting, supporting operations in Europe and later in the United States. The wing contributed to mission planning, flight safety, and overall operational effectiveness by delivering accurate weather intelligence. The 5th Weather Wing was inactivated in 1991 as part of a broader reorganization within the Air Force’s weather services.

The 600th Combat Camera (Photo), originally activated during World War II, was a specialized U.S. Army unit tasked with documenting combat operations and military activities through photography and motion picture film. Its personnel were trained to accompany front-line troops, capturing vital images for intelligence, operational analysis, and historical record. The 600th served in various theaters, including the European and Pacific campaigns, providing invaluable visual documentation of key battles and events. Their work not only supported military objectives but also contributed to public understanding and historical preservation of wartime experiences.

Unit 60152 Air Freight Specialist is a logistics support unit within the military, specializing in the rapid handling and transportation of cargo by air. Established in the late 20th century, the unit has played a critical role in supporting both combat and humanitarian operations by ensuring timely delivery of supplies, equipment, and personnel. Over the years, 60152 has developed expertise in air cargo loading, airdrop operations, and coordination with airlift squadrons to maximize logistical efficiency. The unit’s professionalism and adaptability have contributed to the success of various missions at home and abroad.

The 602nd Ordnance Maintenance Squadron (602 OMS) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for the maintenance, repair, and logistical support of munitions and ordnance systems. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of strategic and tactical aircraft by maintaining bombs, missiles, and related equipment. Stationed at various bases throughout its service, the 602 OMS supported numerous USAF operations and exercises, adapting to evolving technologies and mission requirements. The unit’s dedication to excellence contributed significantly to the overall effectiveness and safety of Air Force missions until its eventual inactivation or reorganization in line with broader military restructuring efforts.

The 603rd Direct Air Support Squadron (DASS) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Vietnam War era. It was constituted on 15 September 1967 and organized shortly thereafter to provide direct air support coordination, primarily facilitating close air support missions for ground forces. The squadron played a key role in integrating air and ground operations, ensuring effective and timely air support during combat operations. After fulfilling its mission requirements, the 603rd DASS was inactivated on 15 June 1974.