Eglin AFB Location Guide

Introduction to Eglin Air Force Base

Eglin Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Okaloosa County, Florida. The base is approximately 30 miles east of Pensacola and 60 miles west of Panama City. Eglin AFB is the largest Air Force base in the United States, covering an area of over 464,000 acres. The base is home to the 96th Test Wing, which is responsible for testing and evaluating new aircraft and weapons systems. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the base’s location, history, and amenities.

History of Eglin Air Force Base

Eglin Air Force Base was established in 1935 as the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Range. The base was named after Lieutenant Colonel Frederick I. Eglin, a World War I hero who was killed in a plane crash in 1935. During World War II, the base was used for training and testing of bomber aircraft. In the 1950s and 1960s, the base played a key role in the development of the U.S. space program, with many astronauts training at the base. Today, Eglin AFB is a major testing and training facility for the U.S. Air Force.

Location and Climate

Eglin Air Force Base is located in the panhandle of Florida, approximately 30 miles east of Pensacola. The base is situated in a coastal area, with the Gulf of Mexico to the south and the Choctawhatchee Bay to the east. The climate in the area is subtropical, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The base is susceptible to hurricanes, which can impact the area during the summer and fall months.

Base Amenities

Eglin Air Force Base offers a wide range of amenities for military personnel and their families. Some of the amenities include: * Housing: The base has a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and dormitories. * Commissary: The base has a large commissary that offers a wide selection of groceries and household items. * Exchange: The base exchange offers a variety of goods and services, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. * Medical Facility: The base has a medical facility that provides medical care to military personnel and their families. * Recreation: The base has a variety of recreational facilities, including a gym, pool, and golf course.

Things to Do in the Area

There are many things to do in the area surrounding Eglin Air Force Base. Some popular attractions include: * National Naval Aviation Museum: Located in Pensacola, this museum showcases the history of naval aviation. * Fort Walton Beach: This beach town is located just a few miles from the base and offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities. * Destin: This popular beach town is located about 30 miles east of the base and offers a variety of water sports and activities. * Blackwater River State Forest: This forest is located about 20 miles north of the base and offers hiking, camping, and canoeing opportunities.

Getting Around

Eglin Air Force Base is located near several major highways, including Highway 85 and Highway 98. The base is also accessible by air, with the nearest airport being the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. There are several transportation options available on base, including a shuttle bus system and a bike-sharing program.

Employment Opportunities

There are many employment opportunities available in the area surrounding Eglin Air Force Base. Some of the major employers in the area include: * U.S. Air Force: The base is the largest employer in the area, with thousands of military and civilian personnel working on base. * Lockheed Martin: This defense contractor has a large presence in the area, with many employees working on base. * Boeing: This aerospace company also has a large presence in the area, with many employees working on base. * Civilian jobs: There are many civilian jobs available in the area, including jobs in healthcare, education, and retail.

🚨 Note: The employment opportunities listed above are subject to change and may not be available at all times.

Education

There are several educational options available in the area surrounding Eglin Air Force Base. Some of the options include: * Okaloosa County School District: This school district serves the area surrounding the base and offers a variety of educational programs. * Northwest Florida State College: This college is located in Niceville, just a few miles from the base, and offers a variety of degree programs. * University of West Florida: This university is located in Pensacola, about 30 miles west of the base, and offers a variety of degree programs.

Healthcare

There are several healthcare options available in the area surrounding Eglin Air Force Base. Some of the options include: * 96th Medical Group: This medical facility is located on base and provides medical care to military personnel and their families. * Fort Walton Beach Medical Center: This hospital is located in Fort Walton Beach, just a few miles from the base, and offers a variety of medical services. * Sacred Heart Hospital: This hospital is located in Pensacola, about 30 miles west of the base, and offers a variety of medical services.

In summary, Eglin Air Force Base is a major military installation located in the panhandle of Florida. The base offers a wide range of amenities and services to military personnel and their families, and there are many employment opportunities and educational options available in the area. Whether you are a military member, a civilian employee, or a family member, Eglin AFB has something to offer.