Harry Hunter

Strategic Air Command

U.S. Air Force

The Strategic Air Command (SAC) was a major command of the United States Air Force that existed from 1946 to 1992. Its primary mission was to provide strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities during the Cold War. SAC operated a large fleet of bombers, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and reconnaissance aircraft to fulfill its mission. The command played a key role in maintaining the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

The 4th Security Police Squadron (SPS) K9 unit was a specialized segment of the United States Air Force Security Police, assigned to the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. Established during the Cold War, the 4th SPS K9 unit utilized military working dogs to provide enhanced base security, perimeter defense, and detection capabilities against intruders and explosives. Throughout its service, the unit played a vital role in safeguarding aircraft, personnel, and critical assets both at home and during deployments. The 4th SPS K9 teams were recognized for their professionalism, discipline, and contributions to the overall mission readiness of the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing.

The 377th Security Police Squadron was activated during the Vietnam War as part of the United States Air Force’s 377th Air Base Wing, stationed at Tan Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon. Tasked with base defense, law enforcement, and security operations, the squadron played a critical role in protecting vital air assets and personnel against frequent enemy attacks, including the major Tet Offensive in 1968. Members of the 377th were noted for their bravery and professionalism under fire, often engaging in fierce ground combat to repel Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. Following the end of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, the squadron’s lineage and honors continued in various forms, with its legacy enduring in modern Air Force security and force protection units.

The Security Police, originally established as the Air Police in 1947 with the creation of the United States Air Force, were re-designated as Security Police in 1966 to better reflect their dual law enforcement and security roles. Their primary mission has been to protect Air Force personnel, resources, and installations worldwide, especially during the Cold War when they secured nuclear weapons sites and air bases. Security Police units played pivotal roles in Vietnam, defending airfields against enemy attacks, and later participated in operations throughout the Middle East, including Operation Desert Storm. In 1997, the Security Police merged with Law Enforcement Specialists to form the modern Security Forces, continuing their legacy of safeguarding the Air Force’s global operations.

2nd Bomb Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 2nd Bomb Wing (2 BW) was originally activated in 1947 as part of the newly independent United States Air Force, inheriting the lineage of distinguished World War II bomber units. Assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, the wing has operated a succession of strategic bombers, including the B-29 Superfortress, B-47 Stratojet, and currently the B-52H Stratofortress. Throughout the Cold War, the 2nd Bomb Wing played a crucial role in nuclear deterrence and global strike capability. In the post-Cold War era, it has supported numerous operations, such as Desert Storm, Allied Force, and enduring missions in the Global War on Terrorism, maintaining its reputation as a cornerstone of America’s strategic airpower.

The Tactical Air Command (TAC) was a major command of the United States Air Force from 1946 to 1992. Its primary mission was to provide fighter and bomber support for the United States Army in combat operations. TAC was responsible for organizing, training, equipping, and maintaining tactical forces for prompt and sustained combat operations. The command was deactivated in 1992 and its responsibilities were divided among other Air Force commands.