ABOUT 4520th Supply Nellis AFB
- Origin and Mission: The 4520th Supply Squadron was established at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, primarily to provide logistical and supply support for the USAF Tactical Fighter Weapons Center.
- Vietnam War Support: During the height of the Vietnam War, the 4520th played a crucial role in supplying parts and equipment for aircraft being used in combat training and deployment.
- Red Flag Exercises: The unit was heavily involved in supporting the first Red Flag exercises in the 1970s, ensuring participating units had the necessary supplies for realistic combat training.
- Specialized Storage: The 4520th managed specialized storage facilities for high-value and sensitive components, including avionics and munitions.
- Cold War Logistics: The unit was instrumental during the Cold War, maintaining readiness for rapid deployment by ensuring Nellis-based squadrons had immediate access to critical parts and supplies.
- Support for Aggressor Squadrons: The 4520th supplied the famous "Aggressor" squadrons at Nellis, which used Soviet-style tactics and aircraft to train American pilots.
- Automated Inventory Systems: The squadron was among the early adopters of computerized inventory management systems in the Air Force supply chain.
- Humanitarian Aid: Aside from military operations, the 4520th assisted in humanitarian missions, providing logistical support for disaster relief efforts in the western United States.
- Unit Redesignation: In the late 1970s, the 4520th Supply Squadron was redesignated as part of a broader Air Force initiative to standardize unit numbering and organization.
- Legacy: Many veterans of the 4520th went on to prominent careers in logistics and supply chain management, both in and out of the military, thanks to the unit’s reputation for innovation and efficiency.