9th OMS

Relive and share the memories of your service-time with your brothers and sisters in arms today. VetFriends.com can help you reconnect.

Did you proudly serve in the 9th OMS?

Are you looking for someone who is or was in the 9th OMS?

Do you have 9th OMS photos you'd like to share?

Then join a community with your brothers and sisters of the 9th OMS.

Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 9th OMS

**9th OMS (Organizational Maintenance Squadron) Military History:** The 9th Organizational Maintenance Squadron (9th OMS) was an integral support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing. Activated in the mid-20th century, the 9th OMS provided essential maintenance and ground support for high-profile reconnaissance aircraft, including the legendary SR-71 Blackbird, at Beale Air Force Base, California. The squadron played a crucial role during the Cold War, ensuring the operational readiness of aircraft vital for intelligence gathering and national security. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of Air Force restructuring efforts, but its legacy endures through its critical contributions to America's strategic reconnaissance capabilities.

Unit Members

Marc Salazar

U.S. Air Force

9th OMSView Profile

Thomas Mehring

U.S. Air Force

9th OMSView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 9th OMS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 9th OMS (Organizational Maintenance Squadron) was activated as part of the United States Air Force, typically assigned to various wings for aircraft maintenance and support. • Strategic Reconnaissance: The 9th OMS is most famous for supporting the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, California, servicing legendary aircraft such as the SR-71 Blackbird and U-2 Dragon Lady. • SR-71 Support: The squadron played a critical role in maintaining the SR-71, one of the world’s fastest and highest-flying operational aircraft, enabling successful reconnaissance missions during the Cold War. • Global Reach: 9th OMS personnel deployed worldwide to support operations, including forward locations like RAF Mildenhall in the UK and Kadena AB in Okinawa, Japan. • Disaster Response: The squadron also supported humanitarian and disaster relief missions, using their expertise in rapid aircraft turnaround and maintenance. • Specialized Training: Airmen in the 9th OMS were cross-trained on unique maintenance procedures for specialized reconnaissance aircraft, including advanced avionics and stealth technologies. • Unit Awards: The 9th OMS earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for exceptional service and mission success, reflecting their high standards and professionalism. • Cold War Secrecy: Due to the classified nature of their work, 9th OMS members operated under strict security protocols, with many stories of maintaining “black” aircraft under cover of darkness. • Deactivation and Legacy: As Air Force maintenance structures evolved, the 9th OMS was inactivated or re-designated, but its legacy continues in successor units supporting reconnaissance and intelligence missions. • Veteran Reunions: Former 9th OMS members continue to gather for reunions, sharing memories of their unique service in support of some of the world’s most advanced and secretive aircraft.