Introduction to Offutt AFB
Offutt Air Force Base is a United States Air Force facility located approximately 10 miles south of Omaha, Nebraska. The base is named after First Lieutenant Jarvis Offutt, an Omaha native who was the first Omaha-born pilot to die in World War I. Offutt AFB is the headquarters of the United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), which is one of the nine unified combatant commands of the Department of Defense. The base has a rich history dating back to 1924 and has played a significant role in the country’s military operations.
History of Offutt AFB
The history of Offutt AFB began in 1924 when the Omaha Chamber of Commerce established the Fort Crook Bombing Range. Over the years, the base underwent several name changes, finally being named Offutt Field in 1948 in honor of Lieutenant Jarvis Offutt. During World War II, the base played a crucial role in training bomber crews. In the 1950s, Offutt AFB became the headquarters of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), which was responsible for the country’s nuclear deterrent. Today, the base is home to various units, including the 55th Wing, which operates reconnaissance and command and control aircraft.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Offutt AFB has a wide range of facilities and infrastructure to support its military operations. The base has two runways, with the longer runway being over 12,000 feet long. The base is also equipped with a variety of aircraft, including the RC-135, OC-135, and E-4B. In addition to its airfield, Offutt AFB has a number of facilities, including a hospital, child development center, commissary, and exchange. The base also has a variety of recreational facilities, including a golf course, bowling alley, and fitness center.
Units and Assignments
Offutt AFB is home to a number of units, including: * 55th Wing: The 55th Wing is the host unit at Offutt AFB and operates a variety of aircraft, including the RC-135, OC-135, and E-4B. * United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM): USSTRATCOM is one of the nine unified combatant commands of the Department of Defense and is responsible for the country’s strategic deterrence and defense. * 595th Command and Control Group: The 595th Command and Control Group provides command and control support to USSTRATCOM and other units at Offutt AFB. * Other units: Offutt AFB is also home to a number of other units, including the 55th Medical Group, 55th Mission Support Group, and 55th Maintenance Group.
Getting There and Around
Offutt AFB is located approximately 10 miles south of Omaha, Nebraska. The base can be accessed via Highway 75 or Highway 73. The base has a number of gates, including the Kenney Gate, Sac Gate, and Fort Crook Gate. Once on base, there are a number of ways to get around, including: * Base shuttle: The base operates a shuttle service that runs throughout the day. * Taxi: There are a number of taxi services available on and off base. * Ride-sharing: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the area. * Personal vehicle: Personnel can also use their personal vehicles to get around the base.
Housing and Lodging
Offutt AFB has a variety of housing options available, including: * On-base housing: The base has a number of on-base housing units available, ranging from 2-4 bedrooms. * Off-base housing: There are also a number of off-base housing options available, including rental properties and homes for sale. * Temporary lodging: The base has a number of temporary lodging facilities available, including the Cedarwood Lodge and Hilltop House.
Education and Childcare
Offutt AFB has a number of education and childcare options available, including: * On-base schools: The base has a number of on-base schools, including Bellevue Elementary School and Offutt Middle School. * Off-base schools: There are also a number of off-base schools available, including Bellevue Public Schools and Papillion-La Vista Public Schools. * Child development center: The base has a child development center that provides childcare and preschool services.
Health and Wellness
Offutt AFB has a number of health and wellness facilities and services available, including: * Hospital: The base has a hospital that provides medical and surgical services. * Clinics: The base has a number of clinics, including primary care, dental, and mental health clinics. * Fitness center: The base has a fitness center that offers a variety of workout equipment and group fitness classes.
🚨 Note: The base also has a number of support services available, including counseling, financial assistance, and legal assistance.
Recreation and Leisure
Offutt AFB has a number of recreation and leisure facilities and services available, including: * Golf course: The base has a golf course that offers 18 holes of golf. * Bowling alley: The base has a bowling alley that offers lanes and food. * Fitness center: The base has a fitness center that offers a variety of workout equipment and group fitness classes. * Outdoor recreation: The base has a number of outdoor recreation facilities, including parks, trails, and lakes.
Economy and Job Market
The economy and job market around Offutt AFB are diverse and growing. The base is a major employer in the area, with a workforce of over 10,000 personnel. The surrounding area also has a number of major employers, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing companies. The unemployment rate in the area is lower than the national average, and the cost of living is relatively low.
| Category | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|
| Overall | 94.3 |
| Groceries | 95.4 |
| Housing | 84.2 |
| Utilities | 98.2 |
| Transportation | 91.2 |
| Miscellaneous | 96.5 |
The cost of living index is a relative measure of the cost of living in different cities. A cost of living index of 100 represents the national average, while a cost of living index above 100 represents a higher cost of living and a cost of living index below 100 represents a lower cost of living.
In conclusion, Offutt AFB is a unique and diverse community that offers a wide range of facilities, services, and opportunities. From its rich history to its modern amenities, the base is an excellent place to live, work, and serve. With its strong economy and job market, the surrounding area is an attractive place to call home.
What is the mission of Offutt AFB?
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The mission of Offutt AFB is to provide support to the United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) and other units, as well as to serve as a base for the 55th Wing and other aircraft.
What are the housing options like at Offutt AFB?
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Offutt AFB has a variety of housing options available, including on-base housing, off-base housing, and temporary lodging facilities.
What kind of recreational activities are available at Offutt AFB?
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Offutt AFB has a number of recreational facilities and services available, including a golf course, bowling alley, fitness center, and outdoor recreation areas.
