About this Unit
The 410th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (410 OMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force that provided aircraft maintenance support, primarily for the 410th Bombardment Wing. Activated during the Cold War era, it was stationed at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan, where it played a crucial role in maintaining the operational readiness of B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers. The squadron ensured the wing’s aircraft were mission-ready for strategic deterrence and rapid response missions throughout its service. The 410 OMS was eventually inactivated following the restructuring and closure of K.I. Sawyer AFB in the mid-1990s as part of post-Cold War force reductions.
Historical Facts
• Formation and Role: The 410th OMS (Organizational Maintenance Squadron) was primarily responsible for aircraft maintenance within its parent wing, ensuring operational readiness and supporting flying missions.
• Strategic Location: The unit was often stationed at key U.S. Air Force bases, such as K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan, due to its importance in supporting bomber and tanker aircraft during the Cold War.
• Aircraft Supported: The 410 OMS maintained various aircraft over its history, including the B-52 Stratofortress and KC-135 Stratotanker, which were critical for the U.S. nuclear deterrence mission.
• Cold War Operations: During the Cold War, the squadron played a vital role in Strategic Air Command (SAC) operations, ensuring that bombers and tankers were mission-ready at all times.
• Alert Status: The 410 OMS supported the SAC’s policy of keeping a portion of its bomber fleet on constant alert, ready to launch within minutes in case of a nuclear conflict.
• Desert Storm Support: Members of the 410 OMS deployed to support Operation Desert Storm, providing maintenance expertise for U.S. air operations during the Gulf War.
• Technological Adaptation: The squadron adapted to numerous technological changes, including the introduction of advanced avionics and maintenance techniques for new aircraft models.
• Distinguished Unit Awards: The 410 OMS and its parent units received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards during their service, recognizing exceptional performance and readiness.
• Community Involvement: Squadron members often engaged with local communities, participating in outreach programs and fostering strong civilian-military relations at their home bases.
• Deactivation: The 410 OMS was ultimately inactivated as part of the post-Cold War drawdown and the closure of K.I. Sawyer AFB in 1995, marking the end of an era for the unit and its mission.
