Paul Gleason

388th Fighter Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 388th Fighter Wing is a United States Air Force wing based at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. It is an F-35 Lightning II fighter wing, which means it operates the most advanced fighter aircraft in the Air Force inventory. The wing's primary mission is to provide combat-ready airmen and aircraft for worldwide deployment to execute any tasking directed by higher headquarters. It also plays a key role in developing tactics, techniques, and procedures for the F-35 aircraft.

The **1606th Air Base Wing** was an Air Force unit activated in October 1980, serving as the host unit at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The wing provided essential base support functions, including security, logistics, civil engineering, and personnel services for both tenant and visiting units. It played a vital role in supporting the Air Force's nuclear weapons, research, and testing missions at Kirtland. The 1606th Air Base Wing was inactivated in January 1993, when its responsibilities were assumed by the 377th Air Base Wing as part of an Air Force reorganization.

The 32nd Tactical Fighter Squadron, originally activated in 1940, is a distinguished unit of the United States Air Force with a rich history of service. During World War II, the squadron flew combat missions in the European Theater, providing air defense and bomber escort. In the Cold War era, the squadron was stationed at Soesterberg Air Base in the Netherlands, serving as a key component of NATO’s air defense and flying a variety of advanced fighter aircraft, including the F-15 Eagle. The squadron was inactivated in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of international cooperation and operational excellence.

52nd Fighter Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 52nd Fighter Wing is a United States Air Force unit based at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. It is equipped with F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and is tasked with supporting NATO allies and deterring aggression in Europe. The wing is also responsible for providing air support for U.S. and coalition ground forces. Additionally, the 52nd Fighter Wing conducts training exercises and participates in international partnerships to promote stability and security in the region.

49th Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 49th Wing is a wing of the United States Air Force based at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. It is responsible for the testing, evaluation, and training of remotely piloted aircraft, as well as providing combat support for ongoing military operations. The wing also conducts research and development in the field of unmanned aerial systems and collaborates with other branches of the military and international partners. Overall, the 49th Wing plays a critical role in advancing the capabilities of unmanned aircraft for the defense of the United States and its allies.

The 635th Combat Support Group was an active United States Air Force unit, primarily stationed at U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Thailand, during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1966, the group provided essential base support, security, and logistical services to enable the operations of Strategic Air Command bomber and tanker missions in Southeast Asia. The 635th played a vital role in sustaining air operations, handling everything from civil engineering and supply to communications and medical care for deployed personnel. The group was inactivated in 1976 as the US military presence in Thailand was reduced following the end of American involvement in Vietnam.

The 432nd Munitions Maintenance Squadron (432nd MMS) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for the storage, maintenance, and handling of munitions. Activated during the early years of the Cold War, the squadron played a vital role in supporting tactical fighter wings, notably the 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing at bases such as Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base during the Vietnam War. The 432nd MMS ensured the safe and effective delivery of ordnance for combat missions, contributing to U.S. air operations in Southeast Asia. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader force reductions and organizational changes post-Vietnam.