63rd OMS

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 63rd OMS

The 63rd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (63rd OMS) was a unit of the United States Air Force assigned to the 63rd Military Airlift Wing. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron was stationed at Norton Air Force Base, California, and was responsible for the organizational-level maintenance of the wing's aircraft, primarily the C-141 Starlifter. The 63rd OMS played a critical role in supporting global airlift missions, ensuring the operational readiness of aircraft for deployments, humanitarian aid, and strategic airlift operations. The unit remained active throughout much of the late 20th century before being inactivated following the closure of Norton AFB in the early 1990s.

Unit Members

Craig Merrill

U.S. Air Force

63rd OMSView Profile

MARK PHILBROOK

U.S. Air Force

63rd OMSView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 63rd OMS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 63rd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was part of the United States Air Force, originally activated to provide maintenance support for aircraft assigned to the 63rd Military Airlift Wing. • Location: The unit was primarily based at Norton Air Force Base, California, supporting vital airlift missions in the western United States. • C-141 Starlifter: The 63rd OMS played a crucial role in maintaining the Lockheed C-141 Starlifter, a key strategic airlifter during the Cold War era. • Vietnam War Support: During the Vietnam War, the squadron was instrumental in maintaining aircraft for missions delivering troops and supplies to Southeast Asia. • Desert Storm: Members of the 63rd OMS supported operations during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, ensuring aircraft readiness for rapid deployment. • Humanitarian Missions: The squadron regularly supported humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the U.S. and abroad. • Deactivation: The 63rd OMS was inactivated in the early 1990s, following changes in Air Force structure and the closure of Norton AFB in 1994. • Unit Awards: The 63rd OMS earned several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for excellence in mission accomplishment and maintenance performance. • Community Impact: The squadron’s presence at Norton AFB contributed to the local San Bernardino economy and fostered strong community relations. • Legacy: Veterans and alumni of the 63rd OMS maintain a proud legacy, with many continuing to support military aviation through associations and reunions.