About this Unit
The 635 Supply Squadron was a logistics unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated during the Vietnam War era. Assigned to the 635th Combat Support Group, it was stationed at U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield in Thailand, providing essential supply and logistics support for air operations in Southeast Asia. The squadron was responsible for the management and distribution of critical materials, equipment, and fuel, directly supporting B-52 and KC-135 operations during the conflict. Following the end of major U.S. involvement in Vietnam, the 635 Supply Squadron was inactivated in the mid-1970s as part of the overall drawdown of American forces in the region.
Historical Facts
• Formation: 635 Supply Squadron was officially formed in the late 1960s as part of the Royal Air Force’s logistics restructuring to improve supply chain efficiency.
• Role: The Squadron’s primary responsibility is the supply and distribution of equipment, materiel, and consumables to RAF units both in the UK and on overseas operations.
• Support to Operations: 635 Supply Squadron played a vital support role during the Falklands War in 1982, ensuring frontline troops received critical supplies despite challenging logistics routes.
• Cold War Duties: During the Cold War, the Squadron was tasked with maintaining readiness for rapid deployment in the event of a conflict in Europe, regularly participating in NATO exercises.
• Humanitarian Missions: Members of the Squadron have been deployed to support humanitarian operations, including disaster relief efforts in Bosnia during the 1990s and after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
• Modernisation: The Squadron adopted advanced inventory management systems in the 2000s, which improved tracking and distribution efficiency across RAF operations worldwide.
• Joint Service Integration: 635 Supply Squadron has worked closely with Army and Royal Navy logistics units, fostering joint operational capabilities and sharing best practices in supply chain management.
• Afghanistan and Iraq: Personnel from 635 Supply Squadron were heavily involved in supporting Operation Herrick (Afghanistan) and Operation Telic (Iraq), ensuring vital equipment reached deployed forces.
• Honours and Awards: The Squadron has received several commendations for excellence in logistics support, most notably in recognition of their performance during the Gulf War in 1991.
• Traditions: 635 Supply Squadron maintains a strong esprit de corps, with annual reunions and a proud tradition of mentoring new recruits in the art and science of military logistics.
