McGuire New Jersey Guide

Introduction to McGuire New Jersey

McGuire, also known as McGuire Air Force Base, is a United States Air Force base located in Burlington County, New Jersey. The base is situated approximately 18 miles east of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and is one of the largest employers in the state of New Jersey. McGuire Air Force Base is home to the 87th Air Base Wing and is a major hub for the US Air Force’s airlift and refueling operations.

History of McGuire Air Force Base

The history of McGuire Air Force Base dates back to 1942, when it was established as Fort Dix Army Air Field. The base was initially used as a training facility for bomber crews and later became a major staging area for aircraft departing for Europe during World War II. In 1949, the base was renamed McGuire Air Force Base in honor of Major Thomas B. McGuire Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient and one of the top-scoring aces of World War II.

Mission and Operations

The primary mission of McGuire Air Force Base is to provide air mobility and refueling support to the US Air Force and other military branches. The base is home to a variety of aircraft, including the C-17 Globemaster III, C-130 Hercules, and KC-10 Extender. McGuire Air Force Base also serves as a major hub for the US Air Force’s airlift and refueling operations, providing critical support to military operations around the world.

Units and Tenant Organizations

McGuire Air Force Base is home to a variety of units and tenant organizations, including: * 87th Air Base Wing: The host unit at McGuire Air Force Base, responsible for providing base support and services. * 305th Air Mobility Wing: A major airlift and refueling unit, operating the C-17 Globemaster III and KC-10 Extender. * 514th Air Mobility Wing: A reserve unit, operating the C-17 Globemaster III and C-130 Hercules. * 21st Air Force: A numbered air force, responsible for providing airlift and refueling support to the US Air Force.

Facilities and Infrastructure

McGuire Air Force Base has a wide range of facilities and infrastructure, including: * Runways: Two runways, each approximately 10,000 feet long, capable of supporting a variety of aircraft. * Air Traffic Control Tower: A state-of-the-art air traffic control tower, providing safe and efficient air traffic control services. * Fuel Storage and Distribution: A major fuel storage and distribution facility, providing critical support to aircraft operations. * Maintenance Facilities: A variety of maintenance facilities, including hangars, shops, and other support facilities.

Community and Support

McGuire Air Force Base has a strong and supportive community, with a variety of services and amenities available to military personnel and their families. Some of the services and amenities available include: * Commissary: A full-service grocery store, offering a wide range of products at discounted prices. * Exchange: A retail store, offering a variety of products and services, including clothing, electronics, and more. * Medical Facility: A state-of-the-art medical facility, providing medical care and services to military personnel and their families. * Child Development Center: A childcare facility, providing care and education to children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

Economic Impact

McGuire Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an estimated annual economic impact of over $1 billion. The base is one of the largest employers in the state of New Jersey, with over 40,000 military and civilian personnel assigned to the base. Additionally, the base supports a wide range of local businesses and industries, including construction, retail, and hospitality.

📝 Note: The economic impact of McGuire Air Force Base is significant, and the base plays a critical role in the local economy.

Environmental Concerns

McGuire Air Force Base has been the subject of several environmental concerns, including soil and groundwater contamination and noise pollution. The base has implemented a variety of measures to address these concerns, including the installation of groundwater treatment systems and the implementation of noise reduction measures.

Future Plans and Developments

McGuire Air Force Base has a number of future plans and developments, including the construction of new facilities and the upgrade of existing infrastructure. The base is also expected to play a critical role in the US Air Force’s future plans, including the development of new aircraft and the expansion of air mobility and refueling operations.

In final thoughts, McGuire Air Force Base is a critical component of the US Air Force’s airlift and refueling operations, providing vital support to military operations around the world. The base has a rich history, a strong and supportive community, and a significant economic impact on the local area. As the base continues to evolve and develop, it is likely to remain a major hub for air mobility and refueling operations, supporting the US Air Force’s mission to fly, fight, and win in air, space, and cyberspace.