Ricky Knutson

**Detachment 1, 56th Special Operations Wing (Det. 1, 56 SOW), Udron,** was established as a forward-deployed unit to support special operations missions in the Indo-Pacific region. Activated in the early 2000s, Det. 1 provided critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, along with air support for joint and allied operations. The unit was instrumental in enhancing regional security cooperation through persistent training and partnership-building with host nation forces in Udron. Over the years, Det. 1, 56 SOW earned commendations for its contributions to operational readiness and its adaptability in dynamic mission environments.

The 432nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (432nd AMS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, assigned to the 432nd Maintenance Group at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada. Established in 2007, the squadron provides comprehensive maintenance and support for MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft, critical for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. The 432nd AMS ensures the operational readiness of these systems, supporting both training and combat operations globally. Through its dedication and technical expertise, the unit plays a vital role in advancing the Air Force’s remotely piloted aircraft capabilities.

The 60th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (60th AMS) is a key unit of the United States Air Force, based at Travis Air Force Base in California. Established to provide maintenance support for the base’s air mobility fleet, the squadron ensures operational readiness of aircraft such as the C-5M Super Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and KC-10 Extender. Throughout its history, the 60th AMS has played a vital role in supporting both peacetime and contingency airlift missions worldwide. Its dedicated personnel have contributed to numerous humanitarian operations and combat deployments, maintaining a reputation for excellence in aircraft maintenance and mission support.