449th BW SAC

The 449th Bombardment Wing (Strategic Air Command), activated in 1963, was based at Kincheloe Air Force Base, Michigan. Equipped primarily with B-52H Stratofortress bombers and KC-135 Stratotankers, the 449th BW played a key role in maintaining America's nuclear deterrent during the Cold War. The wing participated in several strategic alert and training missions, ensuring rapid response capabilities. The unit remained operational until 1977, when it was inactivated following the closure of Kincheloe AFB.