Richards Gabower AFB Base Information

Introduction to Richards Gabower AFB Base

Richards Gabower AFB Base, also known as Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base, is a former United States Air Force base located in Kansas City, Missouri. The base has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century and has played a significant role in the country’s military operations. In this blog post, we will delve into the history of Richards Gabower AFB Base, its significance, and its current status.

History of Richards Gabower AFB Base

The history of Richards Gabower AFB Base began in 1917 when the US Army established a training facility for pilots in Kansas City, Missouri. The base was initially known as the Kansas City Aviation Depot and was used for training and aircraft maintenance. During World War I, the base played a crucial role in training pilots and preparing aircraft for combat. After the war, the base was closed, but it was reopened in 1921 as a reserve base.

Expansion and Growth

In the 1930s, the base underwent significant expansion and growth. The base was renamed Richards Field in 1936, in honor of Lt. Willard F. Richards, a Kansas City pilot who was killed in a plane crash. During World War II, the base played a vital role in training pilots and preparing aircraft for combat. The base was also used as a major supply and maintenance depot for the US Army Air Forces.

Cold War Era

During the Cold War era, Richards Gabower AFB Base continued to play a significant role in the country’s military operations. The base was renamed Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in 1948, in honor of Col. Arthur W. Gebaur, a former commander of the base. The base was used as a major Strategic Air Command base, with B-47 and B-52 bombers stationed there. The base was also used as a Minuteman missile site, with Minuteman II missiles stationed there.

Current Status

Richards Gabower AFB Base was closed in 1994 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The base was officially closed on October 1, 1994, and the property was transferred to the City of Kansas City, Missouri. Today, the site is being redeveloped for commercial and industrial use. The base’s former runways and taxiways are being used as a business park, with several companies located there.

Significance of Richards Gabower AFB Base

Richards Gabower AFB Base played a significant role in the country’s military operations for over 70 years. The base was used for training, maintenance, and supply, and was a major Strategic Air Command base during the Cold War era. The base was also home to several notable US Air Force units, including the 381st Bombardment Wing and the 442nd Tactical Airlift Wing.

🚨 Note: The base's closure in 1994 was a significant loss for the local community, with many jobs lost and a major economic impact.

Table of Notable Units Stationed at Richards Gabower AFB Base

Unit	Years Stationed
381st Bombardment Wing	1963-1994
442nd Tactical Airlift Wing	1969-1994
307th Bombardment Wing	1962-1965

Key Points

In summary, Richards Gabower AFB Base has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The base played a significant role in the country’s military operations, including training, maintenance, and supply. The base was closed in 1994 as part of the BRAC process, but its legacy lives on. Some key points to remember include: * The base was established in 1917 as a training facility for pilots * The base was renamed Richards Field in 1936 and Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in 1948 * The base was used as a major Strategic Air Command base during the Cold War era * The base was closed in 1994 and the property was transferred to the City of Kansas City, Missouri

As we reflect on the history and significance of Richards Gabower AFB Base, it is clear that the base played a vital role in the country’s military operations for over 70 years. The base’s legacy continues to be felt today, with its former runways and taxiways being used as a business park. The base’s history serves as a reminder of the importance of the US Air Force and its role in defending the country.