517th Airlift Squadron

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517th Airlift Squadron
517th Squadron C-17 Globemaster III at Pakistan Air Force Base Chaklala[note 1]
Active	1940–1945; 1947–1948; 1952–1954; 1961–present
Country	United States
Branch	United States Air Force
Role	Airlift
Part of	Pacific Air Forces
Garrison/HQ	Elmendorf Air Force Base
Nickname(s)	Firebirds[note 2]
Motto(s)	Versatile Capable (1970-1999)
Engagements	Operation Husky Operation Dragoon Vietnam War[1]
Decorations	Distinguished Unit Citation Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V" Device Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm[1]
Insignia
517th Airlift Squadron emblem (approved 16 February 1999)[1]
17 Tactical Airlift Sq emblem (approved 19 August 1970)[2]
17th Troop Carrier Squadron emblem (approved 29 March 1962)[3]
17th Troop Carrier Squadron emblem (World War II)[4]

The 517th Airlift Squadron is an active unit of the United States Air Force, Pacific Air Forces 3rd Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson, Alaska. It operates Beechcraft C-12 Huron and Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft providing airlift in the Pacific theater.

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