379th FMS

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 379th FMS

The 379th Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was a support unit within the United States Air Force, originally activated as part of the 379th Bombardment Wing. Stationed at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan, the squadron provided vital aircraft and equipment maintenance for the wing’s fleet of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft during the Cold War era. Its mission ensured that the 379th’s assets maintained high readiness for both nuclear deterrence and conventional operations. The 379th FMS was inactivated in 1993 following the end of the Cold War and the subsequent closure of Wurtsmith AFB.

Unit Members

Phillip Vella

U.S. Air Force

379th FMSView Profile

Philip Tanguay

U.S. Air Force

379th FMSView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 379th FMS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Unit Designation: The 379th FMS stands for the 379th Field Maintenance Squadron, a key support unit in United States Air Force history. • World War II Roots: The 379th traces its lineage to the 379th Bombardment Group (Heavy), one of the most decorated USAAF units of World War II. • Cold War Service: During the Cold War, the 379th was reactivated as part of Strategic Air Command (SAC), supporting B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers. • Location: The 379th Field Maintenance Squadron was stationed at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan, during much of its Cold War service. • Aircraft Maintenance: The squadron specialized in maintaining and repairing complex aircraft systems, engines, and avionics—a vital role in keeping the Air Force’s nuclear deterrent ready. • Distinguished Honors: Its parent wing, the 379th Bomb Wing, was awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award multiple times, reflecting the high standards of its units, including the FMS. • Desert Storm Involvement: Elements of the 379th supported deployed operations during Operation Desert Storm, contributing to coalition air power. • Inactivation: The 379th FMS was inactivated in 1993 following the closure of Wurtsmith AFB as part of post-Cold War drawdowns. • Legacy Continues: The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, currently active in the Middle East, traces its heritage to the original 379th and continues a tradition of excellence. • Veteran Community: Former 379th FMS personnel maintain an active network of reunions and online groups, preserving the unit’s history and camaraderie.