About this Unit
The 305th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (305th AMS) is a unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. The squadron provides maintenance and support for mobility airlift and air refueling aircraft such as the KC-10 Extender and C-17 Globemaster III, ensuring mission readiness for global operations. Its skilled airmen perform inspections, repairs, and servicing to enable rapid and sustained air mobility for the 305th Air Mobility Wing. Over the years, the 305th AMS has played a vital role in supporting both peacetime and contingency operations around the world.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: The 305th Air Maintenance Squadron (AMS) traces its heritage to World War II, originally supporting bomber operations in the European Theater.
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Strategic Air Command: During the Cold War, the 305th became an essential maintenance unit under Strategic Air Command, maintaining readiness for nuclear deterrence missions.
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KC-135 Support: The 305th AMS gained a reputation for its expert maintenance of the KC-135 Stratotanker, ensuring aerial refueling operations were always mission-ready.
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Operation Desert Storm: Members of the 305th AMS deployed to support coalition air operations during Operation Desert Storm, providing vital aircraft maintenance in the Middle East.
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McGuire Air Force Base: The 305th AMS has been stationed at McGuire AFB (now part of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst), New Jersey, serving as a key logistics and maintenance hub.
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Global Reach: The unit has supported missions on every continent, enabling humanitarian relief, combat operations, and strategic airlift missions worldwide.
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Innovation in Maintenance: The 305th AMS has pioneered new maintenance techniques and processes, often serving as a test bed for Air Force-wide improvements.
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9/11 Response: The unit played a crucial support role in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, maintaining aircraft for homeland security and rapid mobility missions.
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C-17 Globemaster III: In recent decades, the 305th AMS has become an expert in maintaining the C-17 fleet, contributing to rapid global mobility for the U.S. Air Force.
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Recognition and Awards: The 305th AMS has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its sustained excellence and dedication to mission success.
