Outfit Air Force Base Guide
Introduction to Offutt Air Force Base
Offutt Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located approximately 10 miles south of Omhaha, Nebraska. The base is named in honor of First Lieutenant Jarvis Jennes Offutt, an American World War I aviator who died in a plane crash in 1918. Offutt AFB serves as the headquarters of the United States Strategic Command, which is one of the nine unified commands within the Department of Defense. The base is also home to the 55th Wing, a unit of the Air Combat Command, and is a major hub for the US Air Force’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.
History of Offutt Air Force Base
The history of Offutt AFB dates back to 1896 when it was first established as Fort Crook, a US Army base. During World War I, the base was used as a training facility for American Expeditionary Forces. In the 1920s, the base was converted into a cavalry post and was renamed Fort Crook. In 1948, the base was transferred to the US Air Force and was renamed Offutt Air Force Base in honor of First Lieutenant Jarvis Jennes Offutt. Since then, the base has played a significant role in the US Air Force’s operations, including serving as a B-29 bomber base during the Cold War era.
Mission and Operations
The primary mission of Offutt AFB is to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support to the US Air Force and other Department of Defense agencies. The base is home to the 55th Wing, which operates a fleet of RC-135 aircraft, including the RC-135S Cobra Ball, RC-135U Combat Sent, and RC-135V/W Rivet Joint. These aircraft are used for signals intelligence and communications intelligence gathering, as well as for electronic warfare operations. The base is also home to the US Strategic Command, which is responsible for the US military’s nuclear deterrence and space operations.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Offutt AFB has a wide range of facilities and infrastructure to support its mission. The base has two runways, including a 12,300-foot concrete runway and a 6,000-foot turf runway. The base also has a control tower, air traffic control facilities, and a fuel storage facility. In addition, the base has a range of administrative and logistics facilities, including a base exchange, commissary, and medical clinic.
Personnel and Units
Offutt AFB is home to a range of US Air Force units, including the 55th Wing, 595th Command and Control Group, and US Strategic Command. The base is also home to a range of other Department of Defense agencies, including the Defense Intelligence Agency and National Security Agency. The base has a total of approximately 10,000 military personnel and 2,000 civilian employees.
Security and Safety
Offutt AFB has a range of security and safety measures in place to protect its personnel and facilities. The base has a security forces unit that is responsible for access control, patrols, and response to emergencies. The base also has a range of safety measures in place, including emergency response plans, fire protection systems, and hazardous materials handling procedures.
🚨 Note: The base is a secure facility and access is restricted to authorized personnel only.
Quality of Life
Offutt AFB offers a range of quality of life amenities to its personnel, including housing, education, and recreation facilities. The base has a range of on-base housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. The base is also served by a range of local schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. In addition, the base has a range of recreation facilities, including a gym, pool, and community center.
Community Involvement
Offutt AFB is committed to community involvement and has a range of programs in place to support local charities and community organizations. The base has a volunteer program that allows personnel to participate in community service activities, such as food drives and blood donations. The base also has a range of partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to support economic development and job creation.
Unit | Mission |
---|---|
55th Wing | Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance |
US Strategic Command | Nuclear deterrence and space operations |
595th Command and Control Group | Command and control |
In summary, Offutt Air Force Base is a major hub for the US Air Force’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. The base has a rich history and plays a critical role in the US military’s national security operations. With its range of facilities and infrastructure, the base is well-equipped to support its mission and provide a high quality of life for its personnel.
What is the primary mission of Offutt Air Force Base?
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The primary mission of Offutt Air Force Base is to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support to the US Air Force and other Department of Defense agencies.
What units are based at Offutt Air Force Base?
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Offutt Air Force Base is home to the 55th Wing, US Strategic Command, and the 595th Command and Control Group, among other units.
What amenities are available to personnel based at Offutt Air Force Base?
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Offutt Air Force Base offers a range of amenities, including on-base housing, education facilities, and recreation facilities, such as a gym, pool, and community center.