96th FMS

• Origins and Activation: The 96th Field Maintenance Squadron (FMS) traces its origins to the early days of the Cold War, originally activated to provide maintenance support for aircraft and equipment at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. • Aircraft Support: Over its history, the 96th FMS has supported a wide variety of aircraft, including the F-4 Phantom II, F-15 Eagle, and the advanced F-35 Lightning II, adapting its expertise to ever-changing Air Force needs. • Gulf War Contributions: During Operation Desert Storm, personnel from the 96th FMS deployed to support combat operations, providing crucial aircraft maintenance that enabled sustained air missions. • Meritorious Unit Awards: The squadron has received several unit awards and commendations for its outstanding performance in both peacetime and wartime operations. • Innovative Maintenance Solutions: The 96th FMS is known for developing creative solutions to complex maintenance problems, often fabricating parts and tools on-site to keep aircraft mission-ready. • Test and Evaluation Mission: As part of Eglin AFB’s 96th Test Wing, the 96th FMS plays a key role in supporting test and evaluation missions for new weapons systems and aircraft modifications. • Supporting Humanitarian Operations: Beyond combat, the 96th FMS has provided maintenance support for aircraft involved in humanitarian relief missions, including hurricane response efforts along the Gulf Coast. • Women in Maintenance: The 96th FMS has pioneered the integration of women into aircraft maintenance roles, with several female technicians earning recognition for their expertise and leadership. • Community Engagement: Members of the 96th FMS actively participate in community outreach, including mentoring local students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields and volunteering in educational programs. • Legacy of Excellence: The 96th FMS’s commitment to excellence is symbolized by its consistently high mission-capable rates, making it one of the premier maintenance squadrons in the U.S. Air Force.