1980
176th Group becomes the first Air Guard unit in the country to score an "outstanding" on a formal Aircrew Standardization/Evaluation Test (ASET) inspection.
1982
Preparations begin to replace the 176th's C-130Es with the newer, more capable C-130Hs.
1984
176th Group hits 60,000 accident-free flying hours. The unit would hit the 80,000-hour mark only four years later, reflecting its increased operations tempo and the worldwide scale of its mission.
1985
Kulis' new operations/training building is dedicated in memory of former AG William "Pappy" Elmore.
1986
A restored AT-6 "Texan" attack trainer completes Kulis' collection of vintage unit mission aircraft.
1987
The Air Guardian replaces the old Airlift newsletter as the official 176th Group news publication.
1988
The 176th Composite Group, including all subordinate units, is presented with the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for its accomplishments from June 1, 1986, to May 31, 1987.