Where is Goodfellow Air Force Base?
Goodfellow Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in San Angelo, Texas. It is situated approximately 250 miles west of Abilene, Texas, and 130 miles southeast of Midland, Texas. The base is located near the Concho River and is surrounded by rolling hills and vast ranchlands.
History of Goodfellow Air Force Base
Goodfellow Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1941, when it was established as a Army Air Forces (AAF) Training Base. During World War II, the base played a crucial role in training pilots and aircrew members for the war effort. In 1947, the base was transferred to the United States Air Force (USAF) and was redesignated as Goodfellow Air Force Base.
Mission of Goodfellow Air Force Base
Goodfellow Air Force Base is a training base, and its primary mission is to provide specialized training to cryptologic and cybersecurity personnel. The base is home to the 17th Training Wing, which is responsible for training approximately 50,000 students annually. The training programs at Goodfellow AFB include:
• Cryptologic Training: Students learn to identify, analyze, and interpret foreign communications to support national security.
• Cybersecurity Training: Students learn to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats to protect the United States’ military and national security systems.
• Language Training: Students learn to read, write, and speak foreign languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Korean, and Russian.
• Electronic Warfare Training: Students learn to detect, identify, and counter electronic warfare threats.
Facilities and Resources
Goodfellow Air Force Base has a range of facilities and resources to support its training mission. These include:
• Classrooms and Training Facilities: State-of-the-art classrooms and training facilities equipped with the latest technology and equipment.
• Simulation Labs: Advanced simulation labs that mimic real-world scenarios to provide students with realistic training experiences.
• Range and Training Areas: Extensive range and training areas for students to practice their skills in a controlled environment.
• Library and Research Center: A comprehensive library and research center that provides students with access to a vast range of resources and information.
Demographics and Statistics
Goodfellow Air Force Base is a relatively small base, with a population of approximately 8,500 military personnel, civilians, and contractors. The base is also home to over 50 different units and squadrons, each with its own unique mission and responsibilities.
Community and Local Information
Goodfellow Air Force Base is situated in the heart of San Angelo, Texas, a city with a population of approximately 100,000 people. The base is within easy reach of the city’s amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. San Angelo is also known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Getting to Goodfellow Air Force Base
Goodfellow Air Force Base is easily accessible by air, road, or rail. The base is located approximately 5 miles from Mathis Field Airport, which offers regular flights to major US cities. The base is also accessible by car via US Highway 84, which connects San Angelo to major cities such as Abilene and Midland. For those traveling by rail, the base is located near the San Angelo Amtrak Station, which offers regular services to major US cities.
Conclusion
Goodfellow Air Force Base is a vital training base for the United States Air Force, providing specialized training to cryptologic and cybersecurity personnel. Located in San Angelo, Texas, the base is easily accessible by air, road, or rail and offers a range of facilities and resources to support its training mission. With a population of approximately 8,500 military personnel, civilians, and contractors, Goodfellow AFB is a thriving community with a rich history and culture.
