5 Westover Air Facts

Introduction to Westover Air Reserve Base

Westover Air Reserve Base, located in Chicopee, Massachusetts, is a significant United States Air Force base that has been in operation since 1940. The base has a rich history, serving various purposes over the years, including as a bomber base during World War II and as a strategic air command base during the Cold War. Today, Westover Air Reserve Base is home to the 439th Airlift Wing, which operates the C-5M Super Galaxy, a large military transport aircraft.

Historical Significance of Westover Air Reserve Base

The base’s history dates back to 1940 when it was initially constructed as a United States Army Air Corps airfield. During World War II, the base played a crucial role as a bomber base, with B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator aircraft taking off from the base to participate in bombing missions over Europe. After the war, the base was assigned to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and was used as a bomber and tanker base. The base’s strategic location made it an ideal location for the U.S. Air Force to operate from.

Operations at Westover Air Reserve Base

Today, Westover Air Reserve Base is home to the 439th Airlift Wing, which is part of the Air Force Reserve Command. The wing operates the C-5M Super Galaxy, a large military transport aircraft capable of carrying large cargo, including tanks, trucks, and helicopters. The base is also home to other units, including the 655th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group and the 439th Security Forces Squadron. The base plays a critical role in supporting the U.S. military’s global operations, providing airlift and intelligence capabilities.

Environmental Concerns at Westover Air Reserve Base

In recent years, Westover Air Reserve Base has faced environmental concerns related to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the base’s groundwater. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been linked to various health problems, including cancer and reproductive issues. The base has taken steps to address the issue, including the installation of water filtration systems to remove PFAS from the drinking water. The base is also working with local and state authorities to investigate the extent of the contamination and develop a plan to clean up the affected areas.

Economic Impact of Westover Air Reserve Base

Westover Air Reserve Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with the base generating over 200 million</b> in economic activity each year. The base employs <i>over 2,000 people</i>, including <b>military personnel</b>, <i>civilian employees</i>, and <b>contractors</b>. The base also supports local businesses, including <i>hotels</i>, <b>restaurants</b>, and <i>retail stores</i>. The base's economic impact is not limited to the local community, as it also supports the regional economy, with the base generating <b>over 100 million in economic activity each year.

Unit	Description
439th Airlift Wing	Operates the C-5M Super Galaxy
655th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group	Provides intelligence capabilities
439th Security Forces Squadron	Provides security for the base

📝 Note: The economic impact of Westover Air Reserve Base is significant, with the base generating over $200 million in economic activity each year.

In final thoughts, Westover Air Reserve Base plays a critical role in supporting the U.S. military’s global operations, providing airlift and intelligence capabilities. The base has a rich history, serving various purposes over the years, and has a significant economic impact on the local community. While the base faces environmental concerns, it is taking steps to address the issue and ensure the health and safety of its personnel and the surrounding community.