Located in the heart of the southeastern United States, Jacksonville Air Force Base (AFB) is a significant military installation that plays a vital role in the country’s defense and security. Situated in Jacksonville, Arkansas, this base has a rich history dating back to the 1940s and has undergone numerous transformations over the years to become the thriving facility it is today.
History of Jacksonville AFB
Established in 1941 as the Jacksonville Army Air Field, the base was initially used as a training facility for aircraft pilots and aircrew members. During World War II, the base served as a major training center for the Army Air Forces, with thousands of airmen passing through its gates. In the post-war period, the base underwent significant changes, including the introduction of new aircraft and the expansion of its training programs.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Jacksonville AFB played a crucial role in the Cold War, serving as a key installation for the Strategic Air Command (SAC). The base was home to several bomber and tanker squadrons, which provided critical support to the nation’s nuclear deterrent. The base also served as a major deployment hub for troops and equipment during the Vietnam War.
Mission and Operations
Today, Jacksonville AFB is home to the 189th Airlift Wing (AW) of the Arkansas Air National Guard. The wing’s primary mission is to provide airlift support to the U.S. military and its allies, using the C-130H Hercules aircraft. The base is also home to several other units, including the 223rd Cyber Protection Team and the 188th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Group.
The base is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a 12,000-foot runway, a control tower, and a range of support facilities, such as fuel storage, maintenance hangars, and barracks. The base is also home to a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, a swimming pool, and a golf course.
Units and Tenant Commands
Jacksonville AFB is home to a range of units and tenant commands, including:
- 189th Airlift Wing (AW)
- 223rd Cyber Protection Team
- 188th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Group
- Arkansas Air National Guard
- U.S. Air Force Reserve
- U.S. Army Reserve
- U.S. Navy Reserve
Economic Impact
Jacksonville AFB has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an estimated annual payroll of over $100 million. The base is also a major employer in the region, with over 1,500 military and civilian personnel working on the base. The base’s economic impact extends beyond the immediate area, with many local businesses relying on the base for contracts and services.
Community Involvement
Jacksonville AFB is committed to being a good neighbor and actively engages with the local community through a range of programs and initiatives. The base participates in several community events throughout the year, including the annual Jacksonville Air Show, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the region. The base also supports local schools and community organizations, providing educational and recreational opportunities for local youth.
Environmental Initiatives
Jacksonville AFB is committed to protecting the environment and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint. The base has a range of programs in place to reduce energy consumption, conserve water, and minimize waste. The base is also home to several natural areas, including the Jacksonville AFB Wildlife Management Area, which provides a habitat for a range of wildlife species.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Jacksonville AFB has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its mission, including:
- 12,000-foot runway
- Control tower
- Fuel storage facilities
- Maintenance hangars
- Barracks
- Gym
- Swimming pool
- Golf course
- Dining facilities
- Medical facilities
- Child development center
Quality of Life
Jacksonville AFB offers a range of quality of life amenities to support the well-being of military personnel and their families. The base has a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, a swimming pool, and a golf course. The base also has a range of support services, including a child development center, a medical facility, and a commissary.
Conclusion
Jacksonville AFB is a vital military installation that plays a critical role in the nation’s defense and security. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to community involvement and environmental sustainability, the base is an asset to the local community and the nation as a whole. Whether you are a military personnel, a family member, or a civilian, Jacksonville AFB offers a unique and rewarding experience that is unmatched by any other military installation.
What is the primary mission of the 189th Airlift Wing (AW) at Jacksonville AFB?
+The primary mission of the 189th Airlift Wing (AW) is to provide airlift support to the U.S. military and its allies, using the C-130H Hercules aircraft.
What units and tenant commands are based at Jacksonville AFB?
+Jacksonville AFB is home to the 189th Airlift Wing (AW), the 223rd Cyber Protection Team, the 188th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Group, and several other units and tenant commands.
What is the economic impact of Jacksonville AFB on the local community?
+Jacksonville AFB has an estimated annual payroll of over $100 million and is a major employer in the region, with over 1,500 military and civilian personnel working on the base.
| Unit | Mission |
|---|---|
| 189th Airlift Wing (AW) | Airlift support |
| 223rd Cyber Protection Team | Cybersecurity |
| 188th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Group | Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance |
Jacksonville AFB is a vital military installation that plays a critical role in the nation's defense and security. With its rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to community involvement and environmental sustainability, the base is an asset to the local community and the nation as a whole.
How to Get to Jacksonville AFB
- From Little Rock, take Highway 167 North towards Jacksonville
- Take the exit for Highway 440 East towards Jacksonville AFB
- Follow the signs to the base entrance
Pros and Cons of Living in Jacksonville, AR
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Low crime rate
- Good schools
Cons:
- Traffic can be congested
- Limited job opportunities
- Summer weather can be hot and humid
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