What City is Andrews Air Force Base In?
Andrews Air Force Base is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Camp Springs, Maryland, just outside of Washington D.C. It is situated approximately 8 miles southeast of the nation’s capital and is named after Lt. General Frank M. Andrews, who was the commander of the USAAF’s Mediterranean Theater of Operations during World War II.
History of Andrews Air Force Base
Andrews Air Force Base has a rich history that dates back to 1941, when it was established as a Naval Air Station to provide pilot training and flight operations during World War II. The base was named after Lt. General Frank M. Andrews, who was killed in a crash landing in Iceland in 1943. After the war, the base was transferred to the US Air Force in 1947 and was renamed Andrews Air Force Base.
Military Operations and Missions
Andrews Air Force Base is home to a variety of military operations and missions, including:
- Air Mobility Command (AMC): Andrews AFB is a major hub for AMC, which is responsible for airlifting personnel and cargo around the world. The base is home to several aircraft, including the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and C-32A.
- VIP Transportation: The base is also responsible for transporting high-ranking government officials, including the President of the United States, using specially equipped aircraft such as the C-32A and C-40B.
- Emergency Operations: Andrews AFB has a critical role in emergency response, providing air transport and support for disaster relief efforts and humanitarian missions.
Air Traffic Control and Safety
Andrews Air Force Base is also a major center for air traffic control and safety, with a range of facilities and equipment, including:
- Joint Air Traffic Control Center: The base is home to the Joint Air Traffic Control Center, which is responsible for coordinating air traffic across the eastern United States.
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The base has a large FAA presence, with several facilities and equipment, including radar and navigation aids.
Economic Impact and Employment
Andrews Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, generating:
- $2.3 billion in economic output: The base is responsible for generating over $2.3 billion in economic output each year.
- Over 8,000 jobs: The base is home to over 8,000 military and civilian personnel, with many more jobs supported through local businesses and contractors.
Accommodations and Services
Andrews Air Force Base offers a range of accommodations and services for its personnel and their families, including:
- Base housing: The base has several housing options, including family housing, bachelor quarters, and temporary lodging facilities.
- Fitness and recreational facilities: The base has a range of fitness and recreational facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and recreational programs.
- Commissary and exchange: The base has a commissary (grocery store) and exchange (retail store) offering discounts on a range of goods and services.
Table: Key Facts about Andrews Air Force Base
| Category | Fact |
|---|---|
| Location | Camp Springs, Maryland |
| Established | 1941 |
| Size | 2,300 acres |
| Military personnel | Over 8,000 |
| Civilian personnel | Over 5,000 |
| Economic output | Over $2.3 billion |
| Airport code | ADW |
Conclusion
Andrews Air Force Base is a critical military installation located just outside of Washington D.C. The base plays a vital role in supporting national security and providing air transport and logistics support to the US military. With its rich history, diverse military operations, and significant economic impact, Andrews AFB is an important part of the national defense infrastructure.
