Where is Ellsworth Air Force Base?
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in western South Dakota, approximately 12 miles east of Rapid City. It is situated in the Black Hills region, surrounded by scenic mountains and forests. The base is named after Brigadier General Harold H. Ellis, a World War II pilot who was killed in action.
History of Ellsworth Air Force Base
Ellsworth Air Force Base was established on August 18, 1942, as the Rapid City Army Air Base. During World War II, the base was used as a training facility for pilots and ground crew personnel. After the war, the base was renamed Ellsworth Air Force Base in 1948 in honor of Brigadier General Harold H. Ellis.
Current Operations at Ellsworth Air Force Base
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a major operational base of the United States Air Force, with a diverse range of aircraft and personnel. The base is home to the 28th Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber. The 28th Bomb Wing is a strategic airpower unit that provides long-range bomber capability to the United States military.
Aircraft Based at Ellsworth Air Force Base
The following aircraft are currently based at Ellsworth Air Force Base:
- B-1B Lancer: The B-1B Lancer is a supersonic variable-sweep wing strategic bomber developed by Rockwell International (now part of Boeing). It is one of the most advanced bombers in the world, with a top speed of over Mach 1.2 (approximately 900 mph).
- KC-135 Stratotanker: The KC-135 Stratotanker is a jet-powered aerial refueling aircraft developed by Boeing. It is used to refuel aircraft in mid-air, extending their range and endurance.
- E-8C Joint STARS: The E-8C Joint STARS is a radar-equipped airborne command post developed by Northrop Grumman. It is used to provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) support to ground and air forces.
Units Based at Ellsworth Air Force Base
The following units are currently based at Ellsworth Air Force Base:
- 28th Bomb Wing: The 28th Bomb Wing is a strategic airpower unit that operates the B-1B Lancer bomber. It is responsible for providing long-range bomber capability to the United States military.
- 28th Operations Group: The 28th Operations Group is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the B-1B Lancer bomber and other aircraft based at Ellsworth Air Force Base.
- 28th Maintenance Group: The 28th Maintenance Group is responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft and equipment based at Ellsworth Air Force Base.
Education and Training at Ellsworth Air Force Base
Ellsworth Air Force Base offers a range of education and training programs for its personnel. The base is home to the 28th Training Squadron, which provides training in aircraft maintenance and repair. Additionally, the base offers degree programs through the Community College of the Air Force and online courses through the Air Force Virtual Education Center.
Demographics and Economy of Ellsworth Air Force Base
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a significant contributor to the local economy, with approximately 8,000 military and civilian personnel based at the base. The base has a total economic impact of over $1.3 billion annually, making it one of the largest employers in the state of South Dakota.
Conclusion
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a vital military installation located in western South Dakota. With its rich history and diverse range of aircraft and personnel, the base plays a critical role in the national defense of the United States. Whether you’re interested in the base’s history, operations, or education and training programs, Ellsworth Air Force Base is an important and fascinating place to learn about.
Table: Key Statistics about Ellsworth Air Force Base
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Rapid City, South Dakota |
| Established | August 18, 1942 |
| Base Size | 8,000 acres |
| Military Personnel | 5,000 |
| Civilian Personnel | 3,000 |
| Economic Impact | $1.3 billion annually |
| Aircraft Based | B-1B Lancer, KC-135 Stratotanker, E-8C Joint STARS |
Bullets List: Key Facts about Ellsworth Air Force Base
• Established in 1942: Ellsworth Air Force Base was established on August 18, 1942, as the Rapid City Army Air Base.
• B-1B Lancer: The base is home to the 28th Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber.
• Strategic Airpower Unit: The 28th Bomb Wing is a strategic airpower unit that provides long-range bomber capability to the United States military.
• Economic Impact: The base has a total economic impact of over $1.3 billion annually, making it one of the largest employers in the state of South Dakota.
• Education and Training: The base offers a range of education and training programs for its personnel, including degree programs through the Community College of the Air Force and online courses through the Air Force Virtual Education Center.
