Where is Dyess Air Force Base Located?
Dyess Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Abilene, Texas, in the central part of the state. The base is situated approximately 170 miles (270 km) west of Fort Worth, Texas, and 160 miles (257 km) northwest of Waco, Texas.
History of Dyess Air Force Base
Dyess Air Force Base was established in 1942 as Abilene Army Air Field, during World War II. The base was named after Captain George S. Dyess, a Medal of Honor recipient who was killed in action in 1943. After the war, the base was redesignated as Dyess Air Force Base in 1947.
Base Overview
Dyess Air Force Base is a Strategic Command base, serving as the home of the 91st Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft. The base is also home to the 310th Space Wing, which operates space-based assets.
Base Facts
Here are some key facts about Dyess Air Force Base:
- Location: Abilene, Texas, USA
- Latitude: 32.4413° N
- Longitude: 99.6917° W
- Elevation: 1,844 feet (562 meters) above sea level
- Population: Approximately 7,000 military personnel and civilians
- Aircraft: B-1B Lancer bombers and U-2S Dragon Lady reconnaissance aircraft
- Runways: 2 runways, 17/35 and 13/31, both measuring 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) long
Mission
The mission of Dyess Air Force Base is to provide strategic deterrence and global strike capabilities to the United States military. The base’s bombers are equipped with conventional and nuclear weapons, and are capable of delivering precision-guided munitions to targets around the world.
Aircraft and Operations
Dyess Air Force Base is home to the 91st Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft. The B-1B is a four-engine, supersonic bomber that is capable of delivering precision-guided munitions to targets around the world. The base also operates the U-2S Dragon Lady reconnaissance aircraft, which is used for high-altitude reconnaissance missions.
Accommodations and Amenities
Dyess Air Force Base offers a range of accommodations and amenities for military personnel and their families, including:
- Housing: On-base housing is available for military personnel and their families, with options ranging from apartments to single-family homes.
- Childcare: The base offers childcare services for military families, including the Dyess Child Development Center.
- Recreation: The base offers a range of recreational activities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and base golf course.
- Commissary: The base has a commissary that offers groceries and other essentials at discounted prices.
- Base Exchange: The base has a base exchange that offers a range of goods and services, including clothing, electronics, and more.
Points of Interest
Abilene, Texas, is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many points of interest to visit in the area. Some popular attractions include:
- The Abilene Zoo: A 16-acre zoo that is home to over 700 animals from around the world.
- The Frontier Texas! Museum: A museum that tells the story of the American West, with exhibits on pioneers, cowboys, and Native Americans.
- The Abilene Philharmonic: A professional orchestra that performs classical music concerts throughout the year.
- The Abilene Christian University: A private Christian university that offers a range of academic programs.
Conclusion
Dyess Air Force Base is a strategic military base located in Abilene, Texas, that plays a critical role in the United States military’s global strike and strategic deterrence capabilities. The base is home to the 91st Bomb Wing and the 310th Space Wing, and offers a range of accommodations and amenities for military personnel and their families.
