7th AERIAL PORT

• Origins in Vietnam: The 7th Aerial Port Squadron (APS) traces its lineage back to the Vietnam War, where aerial port units played a crucial role in airlifting troops, equipment, and humanitarian aid throughout Southeast Asia. • Strategic Airlift Operations: The 7th APS has supported major air mobility missions, including Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, ensuring the rapid movement of forces and supplies to the Middle East. • Global Deployments: Members of the 7th APS have deployed to various locations worldwide, including Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa, providing vital air transportation and logistics support. • Humanitarian Assistance: The unit has participated in relief operations following natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti earthquake, coordinating the delivery of food, water, and medical supplies. • Rapid Port Opening: The 7th APS is trained to establish and operate airfield cargo operations in austere environments, often being among the first on the ground during contingency operations. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The squadron has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exemplary performance during both peacetime and combat operations. • Loadmaster Expertise: Many 7th APS personnel are trained loadmasters, responsible for planning, loading, and securing cargo on various Air Mobility Command aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III and C-130 Hercules. • Joint Operations: The 7th APS frequently works alongside Army, Navy, and allied forces, playing a key role in joint logistics and interoperability missions. • Innovation in Airlift Technology: The unit has contributed to the development and testing of new cargo handling and airdrop procedures, enhancing the Air Force’s rapid global mobility capabilities. • Community Involvement: Beyond its military duties, the 7th APS engages in local community service projects, fostering strong relationships between the Air Force and civilian communities.