Ellsworth Air Force Base Information

Introduction to Ellsworth Air Force Base

Ellsworth Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Rapid City, South Dakota. The base has a rich history dating back to 1942, and it has played a significant role in the country’s defense and military operations. In this article, we will delve into the details of Ellsworth Air Force Base, its mission, facilities, and the role it plays in the US military.

History of Ellsworth Air Force Base

The base was established in 1942 as a training facility for B-17 bomber crews. During World War II, the base was used for training and as a staging area for aircraft heading to Europe. After the war, the base was used for various purposes, including as a storage facility for surplus aircraft. In the 1950s, the base was renovated and expanded to accommodate the new B-47 bomber. The base has since undergone several renovations and expansions, with the most recent being the construction of new facilities for the B-21 bomber.

Mission of Ellsworth Air Force Base

The primary mission of Ellsworth Air Force Base is to provide a secure and supportable operating location for the 28th Bomb Wing, which is equipped with the B-1B bomber. The base is also home to several other units, including the 89th Attack Squadron, which operates the MQ-9 Reaper drone. The base’s mission includes providing airpower, intelligence, and reconnaissance capabilities to support national security objectives.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Ellsworth Air Force Base covers an area of over 11,000 acres and has a wide range of facilities and infrastructure to support its mission. The base has two runways, each over 13,000 feet long, and a variety of aircraft hangars, maintenance facilities, and support buildings. The base is also equipped with advanced communication and navigation systems, including a radar system and a command and control center. The base has a population of over 8,000 personnel, including active-duty military, civilians, and contractors.

Units and Tenant Organizations

Ellsworth Air Force Base is home to several units and tenant organizations, including: * 28th Bomb Wing * 89th Attack Squadron * 28th Operations Group * 28th Maintenance Group * 28th Mission Support Group * 28th Medical Group The base also hosts several tenant organizations, including the South Dakota Air National Guard and the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Environmental Concerns

Ellsworth Air Force Base has been the subject of environmental concerns in recent years, particularly with regards to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the base’s groundwater. The base has been working to address these concerns and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact, including the use of renewable energy sources and the implementation of a recycling program.

🌎 Note: The base's environmental concerns are being addressed through ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts.

Economic Impact

Ellsworth Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an annual budget of over 100 million. The base employs over 8,000 personnel and generates over 500 million in economic activity each year. The base is also a major driver of economic growth in the region, with many local businesses relying on the base for contracts and services.

Conclusion

In summary, Ellsworth Air Force Base plays a critical role in the US military’s defense and military operations. The base has a rich history, a wide range of facilities and infrastructure, and a significant economic impact on the local community. As the base continues to evolve and adapt to changing national security objectives, it is likely to remain a vital part of the US military’s operations for years to come.

Related Terms:

• ellsworth air force base commissary
• ellsworth air force base map
• ellsworth air force base photos
• ellsworth air force base location
• ellsworth air force base wikipedia
• ellsworth air force base directory