Alan Buckles

USAF

U.S. Air Force

The United States Air Force (USAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is responsible for air defense, air support, and aerospace operations. The USAF was officially established as a separate branch of the military in 1947, but its roots can be traced back to the formation of the Aeronautical Division of the U.S. Signal Corps in 1907. The USAF has a global presence, with bases and operations in countries around the world to protect U.S. interests and provide support to allies.

The **10th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing** (10th TRW) was activated by the United States Air Force in 1952, initially stationed at Toul-Rosières Air Base in France. Its primary mission was to conduct tactical aerial reconnaissance during the Cold War, providing vital intelligence for U.S. and NATO operations in Europe. The wing later moved to RAF Alconbury in the United Kingdom, where it operated a variety of aircraft, including the RB-66 Destroyer and the RF-4C Phantom II. The 10th TRW distinguished itself through participation in multiple NATO exercises and remained an essential intelligence asset until its inactivation in 1992 following the end of the Cold War.