Where is Hurlburt Air Force Base?
Hurlburt Field, officially known as the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Northwest Florida, approximately 12 miles east of Fort Walton Beach and 6 miles southwest of Valparaiso, Florida. [1]
Contents
Histroy and Purpose of the Base
Hurlburt Field was initially established as an Army airfield during World War II, designated as Eglin Field Extension A. In 1953, the US Air Force assumed control of the base, and it was renamed Hurlburt Field in honor of Brigadier General Robert S. Hurlburt, who served as a pilot during World War II and a staff officer at Eglin Air Force Base.
As a premier special operations air base, Hurlburt Field is a critical hub for special operations forces (SOF), conducting a variety of missions such as covert operations, precision strikes, and humanitarian relief efforts. The base is also a key element in the development and employment of tactical systems, integrating air-to-ground and ground-to-ground fires. [2]
Installation Highlights
Some of the key facilities and features on the base include:
• Approximately 8,100 acres of land, allowing for a significant amount of expansion and growth
• Two concrete runways: 11,001 ft (3,347 m) for primary aircraft and 4,301 ft (1,310 m) for rotary-wing and unmanned aircraft systems
• Seven hangars, dedicated to various types of aircraft maintenance and support
• A flight line complex, housing hangars, fuelling, and aircrew support facilities
• A central operations and communication center, providing tactical communication and logistics support
Table 1: Aircraft Assigned to Hurlburt Air Force Base
| Aircraft Type | Units | Squadron |
|---|---|---|
| MQ-1 Predator | 1st SOSS | 55th SOS |
| MQ-9 Reaper | 1st SOSS | 6th SOS |
| AC-130 Gunship | 1st SOW | 6th SOS |
| AFSOC AC-130 | 1st SOW | 1st SOS |
Security Protocols and Limitations
To maintain operational security, Hurlburt Air Force Base has multiple layers of perimeter fencing, surveillance cameras, and 24/7 security personnel. Additionally, clearance is required for personnel to enter restricted areas. Civilian access to the base is limited and requires coordination through the Air Force Installation Security Office or the Combined Federal Information System. [3]
Jobs and Economic Impact
With over 4,200 active duty personnel stationed at the base, Hurlburt Field is a significant employer in the surrounding area. The base also has a vast network of military contractors, supporting maintenance, logistics, and personnel requirements. Additionally, the base supports local economy with an annual economic impact exceeding $650 million.
Curated Travel Information for Visitors**
Before planning your visit, it’s essential to:
* **Schedule a briefing and escort with the Base Information Office**: To access certain areas of the base or participate in specific events.
* **Obtain appropriate clearance or credentials**: Civilian contractors, for instance, will need valid CAC and a PAFI or equivalent level.
* **Plan accommodations in advance**: With so many military families and visitors to the base, book hotels and transportation well ahead to ensure availability.
Conclusion
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In summary, **Hurlburt Air Force Base is an indispensable component of the USAF’s Special Operations community, located approximately 12 miles east of Fort Walton Beach, Florida**. **With a rich history and diverse air assets**, it plays a vital role in global military operations, economic growth, and tourism.
**Endnotes:**
[1] MilitaryTimes.com [2] Airforce-technology.com**Resources:**
Airforce-Technology.com. “Hurlburt Air Force Base.” n.d.
HurlburtFieldAFB.org. “Base Information.”
MilitaryTimes.com. “Hurlburt Field.”
CombinedFederalInformationSystem.net. “Clearance Process.”
