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History of 43rd OMS

The 43rd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (43rd OMS) was a support unit of the United States Air Force, primarily active during the Cold War era. Assigned to the 43rd Bombardment Wing at Carswell Air Force Base in Texas, the squadron was responsible for the organizational-level maintenance of the wing’s aircraft, including the B-58 Hustler supersonic bomber. The 43rd OMS ensured aircraft were fully mission-capable through routine inspections, repairs, and servicing, directly supporting the wing’s strategic bombing and deterrence missions. The unit played a critical role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Air Force’s first supersonic bomber wing until the B-58’s retirement and subsequent inactivation of the wing in 1970.

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ABOUT 43rd OMS

  • Origins of the 43rd OMS: The 43rd Organizational Maintenance Squadron (OMS) was originally part of the United States Air Force and served under the 43rd Bombardment Wing, providing direct maintenance support for aircraft.
  • B-52 Stratofortress Support: The 43rd OMS was primarily responsible for maintaining the legendary B-52 Stratofortress bombers during the height of the Cold War.
  • Stationed at Andersen AFB: The squadron was notably stationed at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, a strategic location for bomber operations in the Pacific.
  • Vietnam War Contributions: The 43rd OMS played a critical support role during Operation Arc Light, maintaining bombers that conducted sorties over Vietnam.
  • 24/7 Operations: Squadron personnel worked around the clock during peak operations, often under high-pressure conditions to ensure mission readiness.
  • Specialized Maintenance Teams: The 43rd OMS was composed of specialized teams, including aircraft crew chiefs, avionics technicians, and weapons maintenance personnel.
  • Unit Awards: The squadron received multiple unit commendations for its exceptional performance and contributions to U.S. Air Force missions.
  • Nickname: Members of the 43rd OMS were sometimes referred to as “The Bombers' Backbone” due to their critical support role.
  • Deactivation and Legacy: The 43rd OMS was eventually deactivated as part of Air Force restructuring, but its legacy continues in the form of traditions and lessons passed on to successor units.
  • Veteran Community: Former squadron members maintain an active veteran network, sharing stories and memories from their time in the 43rd OMS at reunions and online forums.

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