317th OMS

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 317th OMS

The 317th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was an integral support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily associated with the 317th Tactical Airlift Wing. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for the organizational-level maintenance of C-130 Hercules aircraft, ensuring their operational readiness for tactical airlift missions. Stationed at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina, the 317th OMS played a crucial role in supporting airlift operations for both training exercises and real-world deployments. The squadron’s dedication contributed significantly to the overall mission success of the 317th Wing until its eventual inactivation during USAF restructuring initiatives.

Unit Members

Charles Rusk

U.S. Air Force

317th OMSView Profile

Victor Twitty

U.S. Air Force

317th OMSView Profile

Photos

Memorial Stone for Battle of Normandy 1944

U.S. Army • 1944

About 317th OMS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 317th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was part of the 317th Tactical Airlift Wing, originally activated at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina. • Primary Mission: The squadron provided maintenance support for the C-130 Hercules aircraft, a workhorse of tactical airlift missions for the U.S. Air Force. • Vietnam War Service: Members of the 317th OMS supported airlift operations during the Vietnam War, ensuring aircraft readiness for critical supply, troop, and medevac missions. • Operation Urgent Fury: Personnel from the 317th OMS played a role in supporting C-130s during the 1983 U.S. intervention in Grenada. • Humanitarian Missions: The squadron maintained aircraft that delivered relief supplies during natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes, across the globe. • Cold War Operations: The 317th OMS supported numerous NATO and US military exercises in Europe, ensuring C-130s were ready for rapid deployment. • Redesignation: The squadron underwent several redesignations and organizational changes reflecting evolving Air Force structures, including changes in the 1990s. • Technological Advances: The 317th OMS adapted to new avionics and maintenance procedures throughout its history, keeping pace with upgrades to the C-130 fleet. • Unit Awards: The 317th OMS and its parent wing received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for their exemplary performance and mission support. • Legacy: The dedication and expertise of the 317th OMS's airmen contributed to the enduring reputation of the 317th Airlift Group as one of the premier tactical airlift units in the U.S. Air Force.