Cannon Air Force Base Information

Introduction to Cannon Air Force Base

Cannon Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in the northeastern part of New Mexico, about 7 miles west of Clovis. The base is under the jurisdiction of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) and is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing. The primary mission of Cannon Air Force Base is to provide specialized airpower and combat support to various military operations around the world.

History of Cannon Air Force Base

Cannon Air Force Base has a rich history that dates back to 1942 when it was established as Clovis Army Air Field. During World War II, the base served as a training facility for B-17 and B-24 bomber crews. In the post-war period, the base was renamed Cannon Air Force Base in honor of General John K. Cannon, a pioneer in the development of the United States Air Force. Over the years, the base has undergone significant transformations, with various units and aircraft being assigned to it.

Mission and Operations

The 27th Special Operations Wing is the host unit at Cannon Air Force Base and is responsible for conducting specialized air operations in support of national security objectives. The wing is comprised of several squadrons, including the 27th Special Operations Group, 27th Special Operations Maintenance Group, and 27th Special Operations Mission Support Group. The base is also home to the 318th Special Operations Squadron, which operates the U-28A aircraft. The primary mission of the base includes specialized airlift, air refueling, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.

Units and Aircraft

Cannon Air Force Base is home to several units, including: * 27th Special Operations Wing * 27th Special Operations Group * 27th Special Operations Maintenance Group * 27th Special Operations Mission Support Group * 318th Special Operations Squadron The base operates a variety of aircraft, including: * MC-130J Commando II * MQ-9 Reaper * U-28A * CV-22 Osprey

Community and Quality of Life

Cannon Air Force Base is situated in the high plains of eastern New Mexico, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. The base is surrounded by the city of Clovis, which provides a range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The base itself offers a variety of facilities and services, including a commissary, exchange, fitness center, and child development center. The local community is very supportive of the base and its personnel, with many community events and activities throughout the year.

Economic Impact

Cannon Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an estimated annual economic output of over $200 million. The base employs over 5,000 personnel, including military, civilian, and contractor personnel. The base also supports a range of local businesses, including construction, retail, and service industries.

Category	Value
Economic Output	$200 million
Personnel	5,000
Local Businesses	Construction, Retail, Service

💡 Note: The economic impact of Cannon Air Force Base is significant, with a substantial annual economic output and a large number of personnel employed at the base.

In terms of education, the base is served by the Clovis Municipal Schools district, which operates several schools in the area, including elementary, middle, and high schools. The base also offers a range of education and training programs for military personnel, including professional development courses and degree programs.

Environmental Concerns

Cannon Air Force Base has been the subject of environmental concerns in recent years, particularly with regards to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. The base has been working to address these concerns and implement remediation efforts to protect the local environment and public health.

In summary, Cannon Air Force Base is a vital military installation that plays a critical role in national security and global operations. The base has a rich history, a diverse range of units and aircraft, and a significant economic impact on the local community. While there are environmental concerns associated with the base, efforts are being made to address these issues and protect the environment. Overall, Cannon Air Force Base is an important part of the United States military and will continue to play a vital role in defending the nation and promoting global stability.