5 Facts McEntire Guard Base

Introduction to McEntire Guard Base

McEntire Guard Base, also known as McEntire Joint National Guard Base, is a military base located in Richland County, South Carolina. The base is home to the South Carolina Air National Guard’s 169th Fighter Wing and has a rich history dating back to 1941. In this article, we will explore five interesting facts about McEntire Guard Base.

Fact 1: History of McEntire Guard Base

McEntire Guard Base was established in 1941 as a training base for the United States Army Air Corps. The base was named after Lieutenant Colonel Edwin A. McEntire, a South Carolina native who was killed in a plane crash in 1941. During World War II, the base was used for training pilots and aircrew members. After the war, the base was deactivated but was reactivated in 1946 as a base for the South Carolina Air National Guard.

Fact 2: 169th Fighter Wing

The 169th Fighter Wing is the primary unit stationed at McEntire Guard Base. The wing is equipped with the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and has a variety of missions, including air defense, air superiority, and close air support. The 169th Fighter Wing has deployed to several countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, in support of overseas operations.

Fact 3: Facilities and Equipment

McEntire Guard Base has a variety of facilities and equipment to support the 169th Fighter Wing and other units. The base has a 9,000-foot runway, a control tower, and several hangars and maintenance facilities. The base is also equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon, as well as several types of vehicles and equipment.

Fact 4: Community Involvement

McEntire Guard Base is involved in several community outreach programs and events. The base hosts an annual air show, which attracts thousands of visitors and features a variety of aircraft and performances. The base also participates in several local events, including parades and festivals. In addition, the base has a variety of programs to support local schools and community organizations.

Fact 5: Economic Impact

McEntire Guard Base has a significant economic impact on the local community. The base employs several hundred people, both military and civilian, and has a annual budget of millions of dollars. The base also generates revenue through contracts and other business activities. In addition, the base is a major contributor to the local economy through its purchasing power and employee spending.

📝 Note: The economic impact of McEntire Guard Base is significant, and the base plays an important role in the local community.

In summary, McEntire Guard Base is an important military base with a rich history and a variety of facilities and equipment. The base is home to the 169th Fighter Wing and has a significant economic impact on the local community. The base is also involved in several community outreach programs and events, and is a major contributor to the local economy.