1st
Strategic Support Squadron
Under Construction
The 1st Strategic
Support Squadron traced its history from the 320th Troop
Carrier Squadron. Equipped with C-46, C-47 and
C-54 aircraft the unit provided support for the
B-29s and personnel of the 509th Composite Group. Formed
at Wendover Army Air Field, Utah the 320th moved to
North Field, Tinian. After the war the 320th relocated
with the 509th to Roswell Army Air Field and became part of
the Strategic Air Command in 1946. Also in that year the
unit was re designated the 1st Air Transport Unit. In 1947 the 1st ATU moved to Fort Worth Army
Airfield. During June, 1948 the name was
changed to the 1st Strategic Support Unit and finally
on 14 January, 1949 became the 1st Strategic Support Squadron.
That year the unit moved to Biggs AFB and replaced the C-54s
with C-97 Statocruisers operating 12 of that
type. In 1951 C-124 Globemasters replaced the
C-97s, the first C-124A arriving at Biggs Air Force Base on 18
January, 1951. The 1st SSS remained at Biggs
until deactivating in January, 1959.
A 1st ATU C-54D 42-72650
inflight near Roswell Army Air Field in 1946. At that
time the unit had ten C-54s.
45-59595, a YC-97A on the ramp at Biggs AFB.
C-97s and C-54s at Biggs AFB.
C-97A 48-401.
|
To return to...
For comments and suggestions...
My guest book is on the main page.