About this Unit
The 379th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was a key support unit assigned to the 379th Bombardment Wing of the United States Air Force. Activated during the Cold War era, the 379th OMS was responsible for the organizational-level maintenance of the wing's strategic bombers and tanker aircraft, ensuring their readiness for global operations. Stationed primarily at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan, the squadron played a vital role in supporting B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft during both peacetime and heightened alert periods. The unit remained active until the restructuring and eventual closure of Wurtsmith AFB in the early 1990s.
Historical Facts
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Origins and Activation: The 379th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was activated as part of the 379th Bombardment Wing at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan, in 1961, supporting B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers.
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Strategic Air Command Role: The unit played a critical role during the Cold War, providing maintenance and ground support to maintain the 24/7 nuclear deterrence posture of the Strategic Air Command (SAC).
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Vietnam War Contributions: Personnel from the 379th OMS were frequently deployed on temporary duty assignments (TDY) to Southeast Asia in support of operations like Arc Light, maintaining bombers participating in the Vietnam War.
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Operation Chrome Dome: The squadron supported airborne alert missions, where B-52s armed with nuclear weapons patrolled the skies as part of Operation Chrome Dome, requiring constant maintenance readiness.
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24-Hour Alert Maintenance: The OMS worked in shifts around the clock, ensuring the bombers and tankers were kept in a high state of alert, often performing complex repairs under tight timelines.
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Distinguished Unit Recognition: The 379th OMS contributed to the 379th Bomb Wing earning multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for operational excellence and mission readiness.
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Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat and deterrence roles, the unit also supported humanitarian airlifts, such as Operation Nickel Grass, providing maintenance for aircraft delivering aid during crises.
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Technological Advancements: The 379th OMS adapted to several upgrades in B-52 and KC-135 systems, incorporating new avionics, defensive countermeasures, and refueling technologies over its operational years.
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Community Involvement: Members of the squadron participated in local Michigan community events, representing the Air Force and forging strong bonds with the civilian population near Wurtsmith AFB.
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Inactivation and Legacy: The 379th OMS was inactivated in 1993, following the end of the Cold War and closure of Wurtsmith AFB, but its legacy continues in the traditions and honors of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, active today in Southwest Asia.
