410th Combat Support Group

• Origins in World War II: The 410th Combat Support Group traces its heritage to the 410th Bombardment Group, activated in 1943 as a light bombardment unit flying A-20 Havocs in Europe during WWII. • Tactical Support in Europe: The 410th Bombardment Group played a key role in tactical bombing missions in support of the Normandy invasion, striking German positions, railways, and supply depots. • Distinguished Unit Citation: The group earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its effective low-level attacks against heavily defended enemy positions in northern France. • Postwar Inactivation and Reactivation: After WWII, the original group was inactivated, but the lineage was revived in the Cold War as the 410th Combat Support Group. • Cold War Mission: The 410th Combat Support Group was reactivated at K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Michigan, in 1962, tasked with providing base support for Strategic Air Command (SAC) bomber and refueling wings. • Support to Strategic Air Command: The group played a vital role in supporting B-52 Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, ensuring U.S. nuclear deterrence readiness during the Cold War. • Community Integration: The unit became an integral part of the Upper Peninsula community, hosting open houses and supporting local events at K. I. Sawyer AFB. • Base Closure and Deactivation: Following the end of the Cold War and the 1995 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, K. I. Sawyer AFB was closed in 1995, and the 410th Combat Support Group was inactivated. • Legacy of Service: The 410th Combat Support Group's legacy lives on through the contributions of its personnel and its historical connection to both WWII and the Cold War. • Honors and Lineage: The group's history is preserved by the Air Force Historical Research Agency, and it is remembered in military history for its adaptability and commitment to mission support.