410th BWU

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 410th BWU

The 410th Bombardment Wing, usually referenced as the 410th BWU (Bombardment Wing Unit), was first activated by the United States Air Force during the Cold War era. Stationed primarily at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan, the unit was tasked with operating strategic bombers, notably the B-52 Stratofortress, as part of the Strategic Air Command’s nuclear deterrence mission. Throughout its service, the 410th BWU played a critical role in maintaining American readiness and participating in deterrence patrols during heightened periods of international tension. The wing was inactivated in the mid-1990s following the end of the Cold War and subsequent reorganization of U.S. strategic forces.

Unit Members

William Dean seaman

U.S. Air Force

410th BWUView Profile

Jim Ledbetter

U.S. Air Force

410th BWUView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 410th BWU

About this Unit

Historical Facts

```html • Establishment: The 410th Bombardment Wing (BWU) was activated in 1958 at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, as part of the Strategic Air Command (SAC). • Main Aircraft: The unit operated the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range strategic bomber, during the height of the Cold War. • Nuclear Deterrence: The 410th BWU played a critical role in the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy, maintaining a constant state of readiness. • Alert Status: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the wing was placed on high alert, with aircraft ready to launch at a moment’s notice. • Air Refueling: The 410th also operated KC-135 Stratotankers, enabling global reach for its bombers through aerial refueling. • Vietnam War: Crews and aircraft from the 410th BWU participated in bomber missions over Southeast Asia as part of Operation Arc Light. • Accolades: The unit earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its performance and readiness. • Deactivation: The 410th Bombardment Wing was inactivated in 1995 following the end of the Cold War and the closure of K.I. Sawyer AFB. • Cold War Stories: Former unit members recount stories of round-the-clock drills, simulated launches, and the intense pressure of the nuclear alert mission. • Legacy: The history of the 410th BWU is preserved by veterans’ organizations and museums, celebrating its contributions to American strategic airpower. ```