About this Unit
The 81st Aerial Port Squadron (81 APS) is a unit of the United States Air Force Reserve, primarily responsible for aerial port operations, including cargo and passenger processing, load planning, and aircraft loading and unloading. Originally activated in 1965, the squadron has supported numerous airlift missions, both during peacetime and in contingency operations worldwide. The 81st APS has played a vital role in supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing critical logistical and mobility support. Stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, the squadron continues to serve as a key component of Air Force Reserve Command’s global air mobility mission.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Mission: The 81st Aerial Port Squadron (81 APS) was first activated in 1952 as a reserve unit, tasked with providing rapid air cargo and passenger movement support for U.S. Air Force operations.
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Strategic Airlift Expertise: The squadron specializes in aerial port operations, including loading and unloading of cargo and passengers, rigging for airdrop, and managing air freight terminals.
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Critical Role in Desert Storm: Members of the 81st APS were deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, playing a vital role in ensuring the smooth movement of supplies and personnel to the Middle East.
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Humanitarian Missions: The unit has participated in numerous humanitarian relief missions, such as providing logistical support after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the Haiti earthquake in 2010.
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Home Station: The 81st APS is based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, serving as a key aerial port hub for the Reserve and active duty Air Force.
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Joint Operations: The squadron frequently works alongside other military branches and allied nations, supporting joint and coalition airlift and logistical operations worldwide.
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Air Mobility Command Support: As an Air Force Reserve squadron, the 81st APS augments the Air Mobility Command (AMC) during times of war, national emergency, or peacetime exercises.
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Recognition and Awards: The unit has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exceptional service, performance, and mission accomplishment.
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Innovation in Logistics: The squadron has been at the forefront of adopting new cargo-handling technologies, such as improved pallet systems and real-time tracking of shipments.
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Dedication to Training: The 81st APS is known for its rigorous training programs, ensuring its members are proficient in aerial port operations and ready to deploy at a moment’s notice anywhere in the world.
