ABOUT 39th MMS
- Origins: The 39th Munitions Maintenance Squadron (MMS) was originally activated to provide munitions support for U.S. Air Forces in Europe during the Cold War, ensuring rapid deployment of NATO munitions.
- Location: The unit was notably stationed at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, a strategic location for U.S. operations in the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.
- Role in NATO: The 39th MMS played a significant role in supporting NATO's nuclear sharing policy, maintaining and securing special weapons as part of alliance commitments.
- Involvement in Operations: Personnel from the 39th MMS have supported multiple U.S. and coalition operations, including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom, by ensuring munitions readiness.
- Emphasis on Security: The squadron established rigorous security procedures for storage and handling of sensitive munitions, setting standards that influenced USAF-wide protocols.
- Transition and Redesignation: Over the decades, the 39th MMS underwent several redesignations and realignments, reflecting evolving mission requirements and organizational changes within the USAF.
- Community Engagement: Members of the 39th MMS have been involved in local Turkish community relations, participating in humanitarian and goodwill activities to foster U.S.-Turkish cooperation.
- Training Excellence: The unit is known for its high standards in technical training, regularly earning recognition for excellence in munitions handling and safety.
- Legacy Equipment: The 39th MMS was responsible for maintaining both conventional and special munitions, including legacy systems dating back to earlier eras of U.S. Air Force operations.
- Deactivation and Lineage: While the squadron’s structure and designation have changed, its lineage is preserved in the current 39th Munitions Squadron, continuing the proud tradition of munitions support at Incirlik AB.