414th CAMS

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 414th CAMS

The 414th Component Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (CAMS) was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for the maintenance and support of assigned aircraft components. Activated during the late Cold War period, the 414th CAMS was most notably stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, where it supported the 49th Tactical Fighter Wing. The squadron played a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of F-15 Eagles and later F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighters through expert maintenance and logistical support. In the early 1990s, as part of Air Force restructuring and the adoption of the Objective Wing organization, the 414th CAMS was inactivated and its functions were absorbed by other maintenance units.

Unit Members

Wilson Holden

U.S. Air Force

414th CAMSView Profile

Larry Gerdes

U.S. Air Force

414th CAMSView Profile

Photos

Murphy's Last Yellow Alert

6595 • U.S. Air Force

Anniversary of Shepard's Flight From Cape Canaveral

6555th ASTG • U.S. Air Force

USAF Recruiting Photo

6595 • U.S. Air Force • 1981

U.S. Air Force • 1981

About 414th CAMS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 414th Component Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (CAMS) was established to provide dedicated maintenance support for the 414th Fighter Group, primarily focused on aircraft readiness. • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the 414th CAMS played a crucial role in ensuring the operational capabilities of interceptors belonging to Air Defense Command, tasked with defending US airspace. • Aircraft Maintained: Over its history, the 414th CAMS supported several fighter aircraft, including the F-86 Sabre, F-102 Delta Dagger, and F-106 Delta Dart. • Location: The squadron was historically based at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, working closely with flying units stationed there. • Emblem and Motto: The 414th CAMS unit emblem featured symbols representing technical expertise and dedication, embodying their motto of “Service Before Self.” • Vietnam War Support: Personnel from the 414th CAMS were deployed to support operations and training related to the Vietnam War, providing vital maintenance and logistics. • Technological Advances: The unit was among the first to implement computer-based maintenance tracking systems, improving aircraft turnaround and readiness rates. • Unit Awards: The 414th CAMS received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exemplary performance and mission support during high-tempo operations. • Women in Maintenance: The unit was recognized for early integration of female airmen in technical maintenance roles, setting precedents for Air Force maintenance squadrons. • Legacy: Though inactivated as part of USAF organizational changes, the 414th CAMS left a legacy of innovation and excellence, with former members continuing to shape Air Force maintenance culture and procedures.