U.S. Air Force

The 7276th Security Police Squadron (SPS) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE). Stationed at Iraklion Air Station on the island of Crete, Greece, the squadron was responsible for base security, law enforcement, and integrated defense during the Cold War era. Throughout its existence, the 7276th SPS played a critical role in safeguarding sensitive communications and intelligence operations conducted at the station. The unit remained active until the closure of Iraklion Air Station in the early 1990s, after which its mission and personnel were reassigned or inactivated.

The 728th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Sq.) was a United States Air Force unit activated in the early 1950s during the height of the Cold War. Tasked with providing radar surveillance and air defense warning, the squadron operated out of King Salmon Air Force Station in Alaska, a strategic location for monitoring potential Soviet air activity. The 728th played a crucial role in the early detection and tracking of aircraft, contributing to the broader North American air defense network. The squadron was inactivated in the late 1980s as advances in technology and changes in strategic priorities led to the consolidation of air defense assets.

The 72nd Security Police Squadron (72nd SPS) was a United States Air Force unit responsible for base security and law enforcement, primarily stationed at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a crucial role in protecting critical Air Force assets and personnel, ensuring the safety and security of the installation. The 72nd SPS provided continuous support for both peacetime operations and heightened alert periods, maintaining rigorous standards of readiness. With changes in Air Force organizational structure, the unit was later redesignated as the 72nd Security Forces Squadron, continuing its legacy of defense and protection.

The 7551st Air Support Operations Squadron (ASUPS) was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Cold War period. Stationed in Europe, specifically at RAF Wethersfield, England, the 7551st ASUPS provided tactical air control and support to NATO ground forces. The unit played a crucial role in coordinating close air support missions and facilitating communication between air and ground elements. Its operations contributed significantly to strengthening NATO’s defensive posture during heightened tensions with the Warsaw Pact. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader force realignments and restructuring in the late 20th century.

The 761st Radar Squadron was an Air Force unit activated in 1950 as part of the United States’ expanding Air Defense Command during the early Cold War. Stationed at North Charleston Air Force Station in South Carolina, the squadron operated long-range radar systems to detect and track potential enemy aircraft approaching the U.S. east coast. Its mission was to provide continuous surveillance and early warning to protect American airspace from possible Soviet bomber attacks. The 761st Radar Squadron remained active until 1980, when advancements in technology and changes in defense priorities led to its inactivation.

The 764th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (AC&W Squadron) was activated on 1 February 1951 as part of the United States Air Force’s effort to strengthen continental air defenses during the early Cold War. Stationed at Yuma County Airport, Colorado (later known as Burns Air Force Station), the squadron operated radar systems to detect and track potential airborne threats, providing critical early warning and guidance to interceptor aircraft. Throughout its service, the 764th AC&W Squadron was assigned to various Air Divisions and Defense Sectors under the Air Defense Command. The unit was inactivated on 1 June 1961 as advances in radar technology and changes in defense strategy led to the reorganization and consolidation of air defense assets.

The 770th RADAR Ground Air Transmit Receive (GATR) unit was a specialized communications detachment within the United States Air Force, primarily active during the Cold War era. Tasked with maintaining and operating critical radar and radio communications equipment, the 770th GATR provided essential support for air defense and control missions, ensuring secure and reliable links between ground stations and airborne assets. The unit often operated at remote radar sites, contributing to the early warning and air surveillance network designed to protect North American airspace. Throughout its service, the 770th GATR played a vital role in supporting both training exercises and real-world operations, reinforcing the effectiveness of U.S. air defense systems.

The 779th Tactical Airlift Squadron was originally activated during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces, serving in the European Theater and flying combat missions with heavy bombers. Reactivated during the Cold War, the unit transitioned to tactical airlift missions, operating aircraft such as the Lockheed C-130 Hercules to provide rapid transport of troops, equipment, and supplies. Throughout its service, the 779th supported a variety of operations, including humanitarian missions, training exercises, and contingency deployments worldwide. The squadron’s legacy is marked by its adaptability and essential role in enhancing the mobility and logistical capabilities of the U.S. Air Force.

The 788th Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron (ACWRON) was a United States Air Force unit assigned to the Aerospace Defense Command (ADC). Activated in 1951 during the early years of the Cold War, the squadron was tasked with operating radar sites to provide air surveillance and early warning of potential threats to North American airspace. The unit was stationed at Waverly Air Force Station, Iowa, where it played a critical role in ground-controlled interception operations. The 788th ACWRON was inactivated in 1968 as advances in radar technology and changes in air defense strategy led to a consolidation of resources within the ADC.

The 790th Radar Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated in 1951 as part of the nation's early warning radar defense network during the Cold War. Stationed at Kirksville Air Force Station in Missouri, the squadron was tasked with providing ground-controlled interception and airspace surveillance to detect and track potential Soviet bomber threats. Throughout its operational years, the 790th played a crucial role in the Air Defense Command's mission to protect the central United States. The squadron remained active until it was inactivated in 1968 as advances in technology and changes in defense strategy led to the consolidation of radar sites.

The 7th Airborne Command and Control Squadron (7th ACCS), call sign "Moonbeam," was an integral United States Air Force unit during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1966, the squadron operated EC-130E "ABCCC" aircraft, providing airborne command, control, and communications over Southeast Asia. "Moonbeam" missions were especially crucial at night, coordinating air support and rescue operations for ground forces under threat. The 7th ACCS continued its vital command-and-control role until the end of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, earning distinction for its support of combat operations and search and rescue efforts.

The 7th Communication Group is a United States Air Force unit with a history rooted in providing vital communications support to military operations. Activated during the Cold War era, the group has played a key role in establishing, maintaining, and protecting command and control networks for Air Force missions. Over the decades, the 7th Communication Group has supported numerous deployments and exercises, ensuring secure and reliable communication channels in both peacetime and combat environments. The unit continues to uphold its legacy by integrating advanced cyber and communications technologies in support of global Air Force operations.

The 7th Supply Squadron was an essential logistics unit within the United States Air Force, first activated in 1948 at Carswell Air Force Base, Texas, as part of the 7th Bombardment Wing. Tasked with providing comprehensive supply support, the squadron ensured the availability of aircraft parts, equipment, and materials vital for the wing's bomber operations, particularly during the early years of the Cold War. The unit was instrumental in supporting Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrence mission, maintaining readiness for B-36 and later B-52 bomber fleets. The 7th Supply Squadron was eventually inactivated in 1992 as part of Air Force-wide organizational restructuring following the end of the Cold War.

The 7th Weather Wing was an important unit of the United States Air Force specializing in meteorological support. Activated in 1952, it provided weather observation, forecasting, and atmospheric analysis for USAF operations throughout Europe, primarily supporting United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and NATO missions during the Cold War. Headquartered at Heidelberg, Germany, the wing managed numerous subordinate squadrons and detachments across the region. The 7th Weather Wing was inactivated in 1991 as part of post-Cold War military reductions and restructuring.

The **811th Air Police Squadron** was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to the Strategic Air Command (SAC). Activated in the early 1950s, the squadron was responsible for base security, law enforcement, and the protection of nuclear assets at SAC installations during the height of the Cold War. The 811th Air Police Squadron played a crucial role in safeguarding personnel, aircraft, and sensitive materials, ensuring operational readiness and deterrence against potential threats. The unit was later redesignated as part of the broader transition from Air Police to Security Police, reflecting the evolving mission and structure of USAF security forces.

The 814th Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) was a unit assigned to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) of the United States Air Force. Throughout its active years, the 814th CES played a crucial role in supporting SAC’s strategic bomber and missile operations by providing construction, maintenance, and rapid repair of airfield and base facilities. The unit’s engineering expertise ensured operational readiness and infrastructure resilience at key SAC installations during the Cold War era. The 814th CES contributed significantly to the overall mission effectiveness and rapid response capabilities of SAC until its eventual inactivation or reorganization as part of broader Air Force restructuring efforts.

The 818th Combat Support was activated to provide essential logistical and operational support to frontline military units. Throughout its history, the unit has played a crucial role in supplying, maintaining, and sustaining combat operations during both peacetime and conflict. The 818th has participated in multiple deployments, offering expertise in areas such as transportation, engineering, and base operations. Its dedication to mission readiness and adaptability has made it an indispensable asset within the military support structure.

The 823rd Combat Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during the Vietnam War era. Established in 1966, the unit was specially trained in ground combat and base defense, providing security for air bases in hostile environments, particularly in Southeast Asia. The 823rd participated in numerous operations, including defending installations against enemy attacks and conducting reconnaissance patrols around air bases. Their expertise in security and rapid response contributed significantly to the protection of USAF assets and personnel during critical periods of conflict.

The 831st Hospital was a key medical unit assigned to George Air Force Base in California during its years of operation. Established to provide comprehensive healthcare services, the 831st supported the medical needs of Air Force personnel, their families, and at times, the local community. Throughout the Cold War era, the hospital played a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and well-being of aircrews and support staff assigned to the base’s tactical fighter wings. The unit was deactivated following the closure of George AFB in 1992, marking the end of its distinguished service.

The 833rd Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is a unit that has played a critical role in supporting U.S. Air Force operations through its expertise in engineering, construction, and emergency management. Originally activated to provide civil engineering services, the squadron has been responsible for maintaining and repairing base infrastructure, supporting contingency operations, and ensuring rapid recovery capabilities during emergencies. Over the years, the 833rd CES has deployed personnel and resources to various regions, contributing to both peacetime and combat missions. Its legacy is marked by adaptability and dedication, ensuring mission readiness and operational effectiveness wherever it is assigned.

The 836th Civil Engineering Squadron was an integral support unit of the United States Air Force, primarily stationed at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron provided essential engineering, construction, and maintenance services to ensure base readiness and operational capability. Throughout its history, the 836th CES played a crucial role in managing infrastructure, emergency response, and environmental stewardship, contributing significantly to the mission success of its host wing. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader Air Force realignments and restructuring.

The 84th Fighter Interceptor Squadron was a United States Air Force unit established during World War II in 1942. Originally activated as the 84th Pursuit Squadron, it participated in the European Theater, flying combat missions in support of Allied operations. After the war, the squadron was re-designated and assigned to Air Defense Command, where it operated various interceptor aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre and F-101 Voodoo, during the Cold War era. The 84th played a crucial role in continental air defense until its inactivation in 1971.

The 86th Security Forces Squadron (86th SFS), previously designated as the 86th Combat Readiness Squadron (86th CRS), is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Established during the Cold War, the squadron has played a critical role in providing security and force protection for USAF assets and personnel throughout Europe. Over the decades, the unit has supported numerous operations, including peacekeeping missions in the Balkans and security operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Renowned for its readiness and adaptability, the 86th CRS/SFS continues to serve as a key element in safeguarding U.S. and allied interests within the European theater.

The 86th Equipment Maintenance Squadron (86th EMS) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Established to provide comprehensive maintenance, fabrication, and repair services, the squadron supports the 86th Airlift Wing’s operational readiness. Over the years, the 86th EMS has played a crucial role in sustaining aircraft and ground equipment for a variety of missions, including airlift, humanitarian, and contingency operations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The squadron's expertise ensures mission-critical assets remain operational, directly contributing to U.S. and NATO strategic objectives.