Where is Randolph Air Force Base?
Randolph Air Force Base is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in San Antonio, Texas. The base is situated approximately 20 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio and is one of the largest military bases in the state.
A Brief History
Randolph Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1917, when it was established as Camp Randolph, a pilot training facility for the United States Army Air Service. During World War I, the camp played a crucial role in training pilots for the war effort. In 1928, the camp was redesignated as Randolph Field, and in 1947, it was officially named Randolph Air Force Base when the USAF was established.
What is Randolph Air Force Base?
Randolph Air Force Base is a primary maintenance and training facility for the USAF. The base is home to the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), which is responsible for training pilots, air traffic controllers, and other personnel. The base is also home to the 644th Maintenance Group, which is responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft and equipment.
What Units are Based at Randolph Air Force Base?
Randolph Air Force Base is home to a variety of units, including:
- AETC: Provides training to pilots, air traffic controllers, and other personnel
- 644th Maintenance Group: Responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft and equipment
- 23d Wing: A redesignated unit of the USAF Fighter Wing, responsible for pilot training
- 12th Flying Training Wing: Responsible for flight training and evaluation
- 644th Operations Group: Responsible for aircraft operations and maintenance
Amenities and Services
Randolph Air Force Base offers a range of amenities and services to its personnel and their families, including:
- Housing: The base offers a range of housing options, including on-base housing, off-base housing, and Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA)
- Shopping: The base has several shopping options, including the Base Exchange ( BX) and the Base Commissary
- Dining: The base has several dining options, including cafeteria-style dining and fast food
- Recreation: The base offers a range of recreational activities, including parks, gymnasiums, and recreational programs
- Child Development Centers: The base has several child development centers for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old
Demographics
As of 2020, Randolph Air Force Base has a population of approximately 12,000 military personnel and 13,000 family members. The base is served by the San Antonio International Airport, which is located approximately 20 miles southwest of the base.
Table: Randolph Air Force Base Statistics
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Population | 12,000 (military personnel) & 13,000 (family members) |
| Established | 1917 |
| Primary Mission | Primary maintenance and training facility for the USAF |
| Units | AETC, 644th Maintenance Group, 23d Wing, 12th Flying Training Wing, 644th Operations Group |
| Amenities | Housing, shopping, dining, recreation, child development centers |
Conclusion
Randolph Air Force Base is a significant military base located in San Antonio, Texas. With a rich history dating back to World War I, the base has played a crucial role in training pilots and other personnel for the USAF. Today, the base is home to a variety of units and offers a range of amenities and services to its personnel and their families.
