7172 FMS Libya N: Africa and 9th FMS (SAC) Idaho

```html • 7172nd FMS Libya / North Africa: • Strategic Location: The 7172nd Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) was stationed at Wheelus Air Base, Libya, a vital U.S. presence in North Africa during the Cold War due to its proximity to Europe and the Middle East. • Cold War Hotspot: Wheelus Air Base was often called the "Strategic Air Command’s (SAC) Gateway to Africa," serving as a deployment and training hub for U.S. aircrews and aircraft. • Operation Reflex: The 7172nd FMS supported Operation Reflex, during which SAC B-47 and later B-52 bombers deployed to Wheelus on rotational alert, placing nuclear-capable bombers closer to the Soviet Union. • Training Ground: The unit maintained aircraft and supported live-fire bombing and gunnery ranges in the Libyan desert, allowing for realistic training scenarios not possible in the U.S. • Evacuation and Closure: The U.S. presence at Wheelus and the role of the 7172nd FMS ended in 1970 when the base was handed over to Libya’s government after Muammar Gaddafi’s coup. • 9th FMS (SAC) Idaho: • Location: The 9th Field Maintenance Squadron was assigned to Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, under the Strategic Air Command (SAC). • Strategic Support: 9th FMS provided vital maintenance for B-47 Stratojets, EB-47s, and later B-52 Stratofortresses and KC-135 Stratotankers, supporting SAC’s nuclear deterrence mission. • Role in Alerts: The squadron was responsible for keeping aircraft on 24/7 alert status, with high readiness during crises like the Cuban Missile Crisis. • Innovations: 9th FMS personnel were recognized for improving maintenance techniques, reducing turnaround times for aircraft and increasing SAC’s operational effectiveness. • Community Impact: The squadron’s presence contributed significantly to the Mountain Home community, fostering close ties between service members and local civilians throughout the Cold War era. ```