U.S. Air Force

The 1st Radiological Safety Support Unit was established during the early 1950s in response to the growing need for specialized radiological monitoring and safety during nuclear weapons testing and training exercises. Comprised of expertly trained soldiers and scientists, the unit was tasked with conducting radiation surveys, decontamination procedures, and advising commanders on protective measures for troops exposed to nuclear fallout. Over the decades, the unit supported numerous atomic test operations, provided radiological safety training across the armed forces, and contributed to the development of advanced monitoring equipment. Today, the 1st Radiological Safety Support Unit remains a vital asset in ensuring the safety of military personnel during nuclear incidents and maintaining readiness against radiological threats.

The 1st Special Vehicle Squadron (1st SVS) was activated in the early 1980s as a dedicated transport and logistics unit within the armed forces, specializing in the rapid deployment of military vehicles and equipment. The unit played a crucial role during several major operations, including providing support during humanitarian missions and large-scale training exercises. Throughout its history, the 1st SVS earned recognition for its exceptional operational readiness and adaptability in challenging environments. Today, the squadron continues to serve as a key component in ensuring the mobility and logistical effectiveness of the military.

The 2005th Army Airways Communications System (AACS) Squadron was a United States Air Force unit activated during World War II. Assigned to the Army Airways Communications System, its mission was to provide vital air-to-ground communications, navigation aids, and weather services to support air operations in the Pacific Theater. The squadron played a key role in establishing and maintaining communication networks across remote and newly captured islands, enabling effective command and control of air missions. After the war, the 2005th AACS continued its service during the early years of the Cold War before being inactivated as part of Air Force organizational changes.

The 2021st Airways and Air Communications Service Squadron (2021st AACS Sqd) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for providing vital air traffic control and communications services. Activated during the early Cold War era, the squadron played a key role in supporting air operations and maintaining communication networks for the Air Force, particularly in the Pacific region. The unit facilitated the safe movement of aircraft, ensuring effective command and control during both routine and contingency missions. Over time, as technology and organizational needs evolved, the squadron’s functions were absorbed into successor communications and air traffic control units.

The 2046-1 Airways and Air Communications Service Detachment (AACS Det) was a specialized unit within the United States Air Force, activated during the early years of the Cold War. Its primary mission involved establishing and maintaining critical air communications and navigation aids for U.S. and allied air operations, often in remote or forward-deployed locations. The unit played a vital role in supporting strategic airlift and reconnaissance missions by ensuring reliable communications infrastructure under challenging conditions. Throughout its service, the 2046-1 AACS Det contributed significantly to the effectiveness and safety of U.S. Air Force air operations before being inactivated or reorganized as technology and operational needs evolved.

The 20th Transportation Squadron was activated in 1948 at Wiesbaden Air Base, Germany, as part of the United States Air Force’s efforts to support post-World War II operations in Europe. Originally tasked with providing airlift and logistical support during the Berlin Airlift, the unit played a key role in transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies across the European theater. Over the decades, the squadron underwent several reassignments and redesignations, adapting to evolving Air Force missions and technological advancements. The 20th Transportation Squadron was eventually inactivated, with its lineage and honors carried on by successor units within the Air Force’s transportation and logistics structure.

The 21 Aircraft and Equipment (A&E) unit was a key support formation within the Royal Air Force, primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and preparation of aircraft and associated equipment. Established during World War II, it played a crucial logistical role by ensuring that operational squadrons received serviceable aircraft and vital components in a timely manner. Based at various locations over its history, including RAF Fauld, the unit specialized in munitions storage and armament preparation, contributing significantly to the RAF's sustained operational capability. The expertise and efficiency of 21 A&E were instrumental during periods of heightened conflict, underpinning the effectiveness of frontline air operations.

2100 Detachment (Det.), stationed in Zweibrücken, Germany, was a United States military unit active during the Cold War era. Primarily tasked with intelligence and signals operations, the detachment supported NATO missions and provided critical surveillance along the East-West German border. The unit worked closely with other allied forces to monitor Warsaw Pact activities, contributing to the broader strategic objectives of U.S. Army Europe. 2100 Det. played a vital role in maintaining situational awareness and security in the region until its deactivation as part of post-Cold War military reductions.

The 210th Rescue Squadron (210th RQS) is a unit of the Alaska Air National Guard, based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. It was activated in 1990, inheriting a proud tradition of search and rescue previously carried out by other Alaskan Air National Guard units. The squadron specializes in combat search and rescue (CSAR), personnel recovery, and humanitarian missions, often operating in extreme Arctic conditions. Throughout its history, the 210th RQS has played a vital role in both military operations and civilian rescue missions, earning recognition for its expertise and bravery.

The 212th Engineering Installation Squadron (212 EIS) is a unit of the Air National Guard based at Milford, Massachusetts. It was originally constituted and activated to provide specialized engineering, communications, and infrastructure installation support for the United States Air Force. Over its history, the 212 EIS has participated in numerous stateside and overseas missions, including the installation and maintenance of critical communications systems in support of both peacetime and combat operations. The squadron has earned recognition for its technical expertise and rapid deployment capabilities, contributing to both national defense and disaster response efforts.

The 217th Avionics Maintenance Squadron was a unit of the United States Air National Guard, tasked with providing specialized maintenance and support for aircraft avionics systems. Established during the Cold War era, the squadron played a crucial role in ensuring the operational readiness of various tactical and strategic aircraft by maintaining, repairing, and calibrating sophisticated electronic and navigation equipment. The 217th participated in numerous training exercises and supported both stateside and overseas deployments, contributing to the overall effectiveness of Air National Guard air operations. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational restructuring within the Air National Guard.

The 22nd Troop Carrier Squadron was activated in 1942 as part of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Initially assigned to the 374th Troop Carrier Group, the squadron operated primarily in the Southwest Pacific Theater, providing vital airlift support, including paratrooper drops, cargo transport, and medical evacuations. Flying aircraft such as the Douglas C-47 Skytrain, the squadron played a crucial role in numerous Allied campaigns, including operations in New Guinea and the Philippines. After the war, the unit underwent several redesignations before its eventual inactivation.

The 236th Combat Communications Squadron is a unit of the Air National Guard based at Hammond Air National Guard Station, Louisiana. Established in 1954, the squadron has provided critical communications and information technology support for both state and federal missions. Over its history, the 236th has deployed personnel and equipment to support operations in locations such as Southwest Asia, responding to contingencies, natural disasters, and humanitarian missions. The squadron is renowned for its ability to rapidly establish secure, reliable communications networks in austere environments, ensuring command and control capabilities for joint and allied forces.

The 2392nd Civil Engineering Squadron was activated during the Cold War era to provide essential engineering, construction, and base maintenance support for United States Air Force installations. Throughout its service, the squadron was responsible for constructing and maintaining critical infrastructure, ensuring operational readiness during both peacetime and periods of heightened alert. Its personnel specialized in rapid airfield repair, utility services, and emergency response, contributing significantly to mission success at home and deployed locations. The legacy of the 2392nd Civil Engineering Squadron endures through its commitment to excellence and support of Air Force operations worldwide.

**242 Mobile Communication Squadron** was established in the late 1960s as part of efforts to modernize and enhance battlefield communications within the armed forces. Originally tasked with providing secure and reliable radio and telecommunication links for command elements, the unit played a crucial role in several large-scale exercises and operational deployments throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Over time, 242 Squadron adapted to rapidly evolving communication technologies, integrating satellite and digital systems to support both national and allied operations. Today, 242 Mobile Communication Squadron continues to be a vital asset, ensuring seamless information flow in both peacetime and during joint military operations.

The 25th Air Defense Command (25th ADC), also known as the 25th Air Division (SAGE), was an integral part of the United States Air Force's air defense network during the Cold War. Activated in 1948, the unit was responsible for the air defense of the Pacific Northwest and later incorporated into the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system in the late 1950s, which provided real-time data processing and command control for intercepting potential enemy aircraft. The division coordinated radar, interceptor, and missile units to protect U.S. airspace against Soviet bomber threats. The 25th ADC remained active until its inactivation in 1990, marking over four decades of service in continental air defense.

The 26th Artillery Platoon (26APs) was established in 1952 as part of a broader expansion of field artillery capabilities within its parent division. Initially equipped with towed 105mm howitzers, the unit provided direct fire support during several key Cold War exercises and operations. Over the decades, 26APs underwent modernization, transitioning to self-propelled artillery platforms and integrating advanced targeting systems. Renowned for its precision and rapid deployment, the platoon played a vital role in joint NATO maneuvers and continues to serve as a cornerstone of divisional artillery support.

The 26th Supply Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, first activated during the early years of the Cold War. It was assigned to the 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, supporting reconnaissance operations primarily in Europe. The squadron was responsible for providing logistics, supply, and materiel support to ensure the readiness of aircraft and personnel. Throughout its service, the 26th Supply Squadron contributed to NATO defense efforts during periods of heightened tension before being inactivated as part of post-Cold War restructuring.

The 270th Engineering Installation Squadron (270 EIS) is a unit of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, based at Willow Grove Air Reserve Station. Established in the 1950s, the squadron specializes in the engineering, installation, and maintenance of communications and information systems for the U.S. Air Force and Department of Defense. Over the decades, the 270 EIS has supported both stateside and overseas operations, including deployments for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The unit is recognized for its technical expertise and rapid response capabilities in establishing critical communications infrastructure in diverse environments.

The 2727th Air Base Squadron was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. Established during the early years of the Cold War, the unit was responsible for providing essential base support functions, including logistics, maintenance, and administrative services for operations at Hill AFB. Throughout its service, the 2727th played a crucial role in supporting the growing mission of Hill AFB as a key logistics and maintenance hub for the Air Materiel Command. The squadron's contributions ensured the operational readiness and sustainability of U.S. Air Force activities in the Intermountain West during a period of rapid military expansion and technological advancement.

The 2865th Ground Electronics Engineering Installation Agency (GEEIA) Squadron was a specialized United States Air Force unit active during the Cold War era. Tasked with the installation, maintenance, and engineering of ground-based electronic systems, the squadron played a crucial role in supporting Air Force communications and radar infrastructure worldwide. Its personnel were highly skilled technicians and engineers responsible for deploying advanced systems critical to air defense and command-and-control networks. The 2865th GEEIA Squadron contributed significantly to the modernization and reliability of USAF electronic capabilities during its period of operation.

Certainly! Here’s a concise military history for each unit: **29th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (29 FIS):** Activated during World War II, the 29th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron played a key role in air defense, initially flying P-47 Thunderbolts and later transitioning to jet aircraft during the Cold War. The squadron was stationed at various locations, including Alaska and the continental United States, where it was tasked with intercepting potential threats to North American airspace. It operated several aircraft types, such as the F-94 Starfire and F-102 Delta Dagger, before inactivating in the late 1960s as air defense priorities shifted. **34th Tactical Fighter Squadron (34 TFS):** The 34th Tactical Fighter Squadron was activated in 1959 and became renowned for its service during the Vietnam War, flying F-105 Thunderchiefs and later F-4 Phantom IIs in combat missions. The squadron was later equipped with the F-16 Fighting Falcon, participating in numerous deployments and exercises worldwide. Based at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, the 34 TFS has supported various operations, reflecting its adaptability and combat readiness across decades. **561st Tactical Fighter Squadron (561 TFS):** Originally activated in World War II, the 561st Tactical Fighter Squadron saw combat in both the European and Pacific Theaters. Reactivated during the Cold War, it operated the F-4 Phantom II and participated in key operations, including deployments to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. The unit was eventually inactivated in the 1980s as part of organizational restructuring, leaving a legacy of distinguished service. Let me know if you need references or more detailed histories for any of these units!

The 291st Combat Communications Squadron (CBCS) is a unit of the Hawaii Air National Guard, based at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. Established in 1967, the squadron’s mission is to provide rapidly deployable communications and information systems in support of military operations worldwide. The 291st CBCS has supported numerous exercises and real-world contingencies, including disaster relief efforts in the Pacific region and overseas deployments. Known for its technical expertise and operational readiness, the unit plays a critical role in ensuring secure and reliable communications for U.S. and allied forces.

The 2D Battlegroup, 38 Infantry, traces its origins to World War II, where it was formed as part of the rapid expansion of infantry forces. The unit earned distinction during the European campaigns, particularly for its role in the liberation of occupied towns. After the war, the battlegroup was reorganized and deployed in several peacekeeping and counterinsurgency operations during the Cold War era. In recent decades, 2D Battlegroup, 38 Infantry, has continued to serve with distinction in multinational operations and as a rapid-response force in modern conflict zones.