U.S. Air Force

The 487th Tactical Missile Wing was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War era. Established in 1987 at Comiso Air Station, Sicily, the wing was responsible for operating BGM-109G Ground Launched Cruise Missiles (GLCMs) as part of NATO's nuclear deterrence strategy in Europe. The unit played a critical role in reinforcing Western defense posture against the Soviet Union until the signing of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. Following the treaty's ratification, the 487th Tactical Missile Wing was inactivated in 1991, coinciding with the removal and destruction of its missile systems.

The 48th Tactical Airlift Squadron was an active unit of the United States Air Force, first constituted during World War II. Originally activated in 1942 as the 48th Troop Carrier Squadron, it played a crucial role in airborne operations, including paratroop drops and glider towing in the European Theater. Reactivated during the Cold War, the squadron provided tactical airlift support, transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies to forward bases and participating in numerous training and real-world missions. The unit was inactivated in the 1970s as part of post-Vietnam force reductions, leaving a legacy of distinguished service in tactical airlift operations.

The 49th Fighter Wing (49th FW) traces its origins to the 49th Fighter Group, activated in 1941 and distinguished in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The unit saw extensive combat in New Guinea, the Philippines, and over Japan, earning multiple Distinguished Unit Citations. During the Korean War, the 49th transitioned to jet aircraft and provided critical air support and interdiction missions. In the modern era, the 49th FW is based at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, and has operated advanced aircraft such as the F-117 Nighthawk and MQ-9 Reaper, maintaining a vital role in both combat operations and pilot training.

The 4th Aerial Port Squadron was an Air Force Reserve unit activated in 1966 to support airlift operations during the Vietnam War era. Based initially at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron specialized in cargo loading, passenger handling, and aircraft servicing for military airlift missions. It played a key role in the rapid movement of personnel and materiel, ensuring critical logistical support for global U.S. Air Force operations. The unit was inactivated in 1974 as part of post-war force reductions and restructuring within the Air Force Reserve Command.

The 4th Civil Affairs Group (4th CAG) served as part of the III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF) during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1967, the unit’s primary mission was to facilitate civil-military operations, including humanitarian assistance, infrastructure development, and fostering relations between U.S. forces and the Vietnamese civilian population. Operating primarily in I Corps, 4th CAG worked closely with local leaders and agencies to stabilize communities affected by the conflict. Their efforts contributed to the broader pacification and nation-building strategies of the U.S. military in Vietnam.

The 4th Transportation Battalion, often referred to as the “4th Trans,” has a distinguished history within the U.S. Army’s transportation corps. Activated during World War II, the unit provided vital logistical support, ensuring the movement of troops, equipment, and supplies across various theaters of operation. Over the decades, the 4th Transportation Battalion has participated in major conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Renowned for its adaptability and dedication, the 4th Trans continues to support military operations worldwide, exemplifying the motto “Spearhead of Transportation.”

The 5001st Composite Group was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, during the early years of the Cold War. Activated in the late 1940s, the unit was responsible for a variety of missions, including air defense, reconnaissance, and logistical support in the strategically important Alaskan region. The group's diverse composition included fighter, transport, and support squadrons, reflecting its broad operational responsibilities in the harsh Arctic environment. The 5001st Composite Group played a key role in establishing American air presence in Alaska before being inactivated and reorganized as part of the Air Force’s evolving command structure in the region.

The 5072nd Air Base Squadron was a support unit of the United States Air Force, activated during the Cold War era. Stationed at Eareckson Air Station on Shemya Island in the Aleutian chain of Alaska, the squadron provided essential base operations, logistics, and maintenance support in a strategically significant location. Its presence helped maintain U.S. military readiness in the North Pacific, supporting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in the region. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader force reductions and realignments following the end of the Cold War.

**5073rd Air Base Group (5073 ABG) – Shemya Island** The 5073rd Air Base Group (ABG) was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Shemya Island, located in the Aleutian chain of Alaska. Activated during the Cold War, the 5073 ABG provided operational support for strategic surveillance and reconnaissance missions, including radar and intelligence-gathering operations critical to monitoring Soviet activity in the northern Pacific region. The unit maintained and operated Shemya Air Force Station, supporting various tenant organizations such as the Cobra Dane radar system. The 5073 ABG was inactivated in the early 1990s as the U.S. military presence in the Aleutians was reduced following the end of the Cold War.

The 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron (51st LRS) is a vital support unit stationed at Osan Air Base, South Korea, as part of the 51st Fighter Wing. Established to provide comprehensive logistics, transportation, and supply support, the 51st LRS ensures uninterrupted operations for U.S. and allied forces on the Korean Peninsula. Over the decades, the squadron has played a pivotal role during heightened tensions and joint exercises, maintaining readiness for rapid deployment and sustainment. Their commitment to excellence directly contributes to the operational effectiveness and mission success of the 51st Fighter Wing.

The 53rd Munitions Maintenance Squadron (53rd MMS) was a United States Air Force unit active during the Cold War era. Established in the late 1950s, the squadron was primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and management of nuclear and conventional munitions in support of Strategic Air Command operations. The 53rd MMS often operated at overseas and stateside bases, ensuring the readiness of weapons systems for rapid deployment. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of force restructuring and modernization efforts, but its contributions to munitions logistics and strategic deterrence remain significant in USAF history.

The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known as the "Hurricane Hunters," was first activated in 1944 and has since become renowned for its vital weather reconnaissance missions. Originally formed during World War II, the squadron has participated in numerous operations, gathering meteorological data to support military and civilian needs. Since 1976, the unit has primarily been tasked with flying into hurricanes and tropical storms to collect data crucial for forecasting and disaster preparedness. As part of the Air Force Reserve Command, the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron continues to play a critical role in weather operations and emergency response.

The 554th Logistic, Engineering, and Security (LES) Squadron is a support unit within the United States Air Force, originally activated to provide comprehensive logistics, engineering, and security services for Air Base operations. Established in the early 21st century, the 554th LES played a vital role in supporting contingency operations and force protection at key overseas installations, particularly in the Pacific theater. The squadron is recognized for its expertise in rapid deployment, infrastructure repair, and integrated security operations, ensuring mission readiness in dynamic environments. Over the years, the 554th LES has earned several commendations for its outstanding support to both combat and humanitarian missions worldwide.

The 55th Medical Group was originally activated during World War II, providing essential medical support to U.S. Army Air Forces personnel. Over the decades, the unit has adapted to meet the evolving needs of the Air Force, supporting various operations both at home and overseas. Stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, the 55th Medical Group serves the 55th Wing by delivering comprehensive healthcare services to military members and their families. The unit continues its legacy of excellence in military medicine, ensuring readiness and resilience for all assigned personnel.

The 570th Strategic Missile Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II as a bombardment squadron. It flew B-17 Flying Fortress missions over Europe as part of the Eighth Air Force, participating in significant strategic bombing campaigns against Nazi Germany. Reactivated during the Cold War, the unit was redesignated as a missile squadron and equipped with LGM-25C Titan II intercontinental ballistic missiles at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The 570th played a key role in America's nuclear deterrence strategy until its inactivation in 1984 following the retirement of the Titan II system.

The 58th Military Airlift Squadron (58th MAS) has a distinguished history within the United States Air Force. Originally activated during World War II, the unit has provided crucial airlift capabilities, transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies in support of various military operations worldwide. During the Cold War, the 58th MAS played a vital role in strategic airlift missions, participating in numerous humanitarian and contingency operations. Over the decades, the squadron has demonstrated exceptional flexibility and professionalism, embodying the core values of the Air Force in every mission.

The 5th Civil Engineer Squadron (5th CES) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, stationed at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. Established to provide comprehensive engineering support, the squadron is responsible for construction, maintenance, emergency management, and environmental stewardship on base. Over the years, the 5th CES has played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of the 5th Bomb Wing, supporting both nuclear and conventional missions. The squadron’s dedication to rapid disaster response, infrastructure resilience, and innovative engineering solutions has earned it numerous commendations and established its reputation as a cornerstone of Minot AFB operations.

The 6005th Air Postal Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established during the Korean War era, tasked with managing and distributing mail for military personnel deployed in the Far East. Activated in the early 1950s, the squadron operated primarily out of bases in Japan and South Korea, ensuring reliable postal services under challenging wartime conditions. By efficiently handling vast volumes of correspondence, the 6005th played a crucial role in maintaining troop morale and communications between service members and their families. The unit was eventually inactivated as the need for such dedicated postal squadrons diminished with the end of major hostilities and the modernization of military mail systems.

The 602d Air Support Operations Center (ASOC) is a United States Air Force unit responsible for providing tactical command and control of airpower assets in support of joint and coalition ground forces. Activated in the early 21st century, the 602 ASOC has played a critical role in coordinating close air support and integrating airpower into Army operations during major contingencies, including Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, the unit supports U.S. Army Central and ensures seamless communication between air and ground components. Through its expertise and rapid response capabilities, the 602 ASOC has contributed significantly to joint mission success in modern warfare environments.

The 602nd Air Support Operations Center (ASOC), located in Stuttgart, Germany, is a vital United States Air Force unit responsible for providing air-ground coordination in support of U.S. Army Europe and Africa operations. Activated to enhance joint force integration, the 602 ASOC facilitates close air support and airspace management for ground commanders, ensuring seamless cooperation between air and land components. The unit has been instrumental in numerous joint training exercises and real-world missions, supporting NATO allies and U.S. interests throughout the European and African theaters. Through its expertise and strategic location, the 602 ASOC continues to play a key role in strengthening transatlantic security partnerships.

The **602nd Tactical Air Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Counter Warfare Group (602nd TAIRCW)** is a specialized unit of the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF). Established in 1977, the unit was originally tasked with gathering tactical air intelligence and conducting aerial reconnaissance missions along the Korean peninsula. Over the years, the 602nd TAIRCW expanded its mission set to include counter-warfare operations, psychological operations, and electronic warfare support. Its personnel are highly trained in special operations and intelligence gathering, playing a crucial role in supporting ROKAF’s strategic objectives and national security.

The 608th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Sq.) was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1948 as part of the expanding network of radar stations established during the early Cold War. Initially stationed at Snelling Air Force Station, Minnesota, the squadron provided vital radar surveillance and air defense for the upper Midwest, monitoring for potential Soviet bomber incursions. The 608th AC&W Squadron played a key role in the Ground-Control Intercept (GCI) mission, guiding interceptor aircraft to unidentified targets detected on radar. The unit was inactivated in 1963 as improvements in radar technology and changes in air defense strategy led to the consolidation of radar operations.

The 60th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (60th FIS) was a unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during World War II in 1941. Initially formed as a pursuit squadron, it served in various air defense and combat roles, notably providing air cover in the European and Mediterranean Theaters. After the war, the squadron was reactivated during the Cold War, flying aircraft such as the F-94 Starfire and F-101 Voodoo to defend North American airspace as part of the Air Defense Command. The 60th FIS was eventually inactivated in 1971, marking the end of its distinguished service in American air defense history.

The 60th Maintenance Squadron (60th MXS) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at Travis Air Force Base, California. Established to provide comprehensive maintenance support, the squadron plays a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of the base's air mobility fleet, including C-5M Super Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-10 Extender aircraft. Over the decades, the 60th MXS has adapted to advances in aviation technology and logistics, consistently supporting global airlift and refueling missions. The unit is renowned for its technical expertise, dedication to mission success, and outstanding contributions to both peacetime and contingency operations worldwide.