What City is Scott Air Force Base in?
Scott Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Illinois, specifically in the southwestern part of the state. Belleville, Illinois, is the nearest major city to the base.
History and Significance
Scott Air Force Base has a rich history that dates back to World War I. It was originally established as an aircraft assembly plant in 1917, and during World War II, it was transformed into a major Air Force base. Today, the base is a key player in the USAF’s logistics and transportation efforts.
Location and Amenities
Scott AFB is located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of St. Louis, Missouri, and about 55 miles (89 kilometers) southwest of East St. Louis, Illinois. The base is situated in an area known for its rich history, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a thriving arts and culture scene.
Some of the notable amenities in the area include:
- Gateway Arch National Park: A iconic 630-foot-tall (192 meters) stainless steel arch that symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States.
- City Museum: A one-of-a-kind museum made up of reclaimed materials like old airplanes, school buses, and construction equipment.
- Gateway Motorsports Park: A 1.25-mile (2.01 kilometers) tri-oval NASCAR track that hosts several major racing events each year.
Base Details
Scott AFB is home to the 63rd Air Base Wing, which provides support services for military operations, including airlift, aerial refueling, and cargo transportation. The base is also home to the Air Mobility Command (AMC), which is responsible for moving military personnel and cargo around the world.
Here are some key statistics about the base:
| Base Size | 11,811 acres (47.82 square kilometers) |
| Personnel | Approximately 16,000 active duty personnel, civilians, and contractors |
| Runways | 4 runways, with a total length of over 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) |
| Facilities | Over 200 buildings, including 12 hangars, 2 control towers, and 1 airport operations building |
Airlift Capabilities
Scott AFB is home to the 58th Airlift Squadron, which operates the Lockheed C-21A Learjet, a modified business jet used for VIP transport, medical evacuation, and other special missions.
Here are some key statistics about the C-21A fleet:
| Aircraft Type | Lockheed C-21A Learjet |
| Number of Aircraft | 12 |
| Range | Over 4,500 miles (7,242 kilometers) |
| Cruise Speed | Mach 0.82 (560 mph or 901 kph) |
Education and Healthcare
Scott AFB offers a range of education and healthcare services for military personnel and their families. These services include:
- Scott Air Force Base High School: A fully accredited high school with a student body of around 1,500 students.
- Gateway Academy: A middle school serving grades 6-8 with a student body of around 500 students.
- Scott Family Advocacy Center: A facility that provides counseling services, education, and resources to military families.
- Keesler Air Force Base Clinic: A military treatment facility that offers a range of medical services, including primary care, mental health, and specialized care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scott Air Force Base is a significant military installation located in Belleville, Illinois, with a rich history and a range of amenities and services. As a major logistics and transportation hub, the base plays a critical role in supporting military operations around the world. With its proximity to St. Louis and its scenic outdoor recreational opportunities, Scott AFB is a great place to live, work, and serve in the United States Air Force.
