What Military Base is in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma, known as the "Sooner State," is home to several military bases, each playing a vital role in the country’s defense and national security. With a rich military history, Oklahoma has been an important location for the US Armed Forces since the early 20th century. In this article, we will explore the military bases in Oklahoma, their purpose, and what they do.
Tinker Air Force Base
Tinker Air Force Base, located in Oklahoma City, is one of the largest and most important military bases in the state. Established in 1941, the base is home to the 72nd Air Base Wing, which provides base operations and support services to the US Air Force.
What does Tinker Air Force Base do?
- Maintenance and Repair: Tinker Air Force Base is responsible for maintaining and repairing military aircraft, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon and B-1B Lancer.
- Logistics: The base provides logistics support, including fueling, transportation, and supply chain management.
- Engineering: Tinker Air Force Base has a team of engineers who design, develop, and test military equipment and systems.
Other Military Bases in Oklahoma
In addition to Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma is home to several other military bases, including:
- Fort Sill: Located in Lawton, Fort Sill is a US Army post that has been in operation since 1869. The base is home to the 1st Cavalry Division and the 75th Field Artillery Brigade.
- Vance Air Force Base: Located in Enid, Vance Air Force Base is a US Air Force base that was established in 1942. The base is home to the 47th Flying Training Wing and provides pilot training.
- Hill Air Force Base: Located in Altus, Hill Air Force Base is a US Air Force base that was established in 1942. The base is home to the 97th Air Mobility Wing and provides air refueling and airlift services.
History of Military Bases in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a long history of military presence, dating back to the early 20th century. During World War II, the state played a significant role in the war effort, with several military bases established to support the war effort.
- Fort Sill: Established in 1869, Fort Sill was one of the first military bases in Oklahoma. During World War II, the base was used as a training ground for troops heading to Europe.
- Tinker Air Force Base: Established in 1941, Tinker Air Force Base was originally a US Army Air Forces base, but was later transferred to the US Air Force in 1947.
- Vance Air Force Base: Established in 1942, Vance Air Force Base was originally a US Army Air Forces base, but was later transferred to the US Air Force in 1947.
Interesting Facts About Military Bases in Oklahoma
- Tinker Air Force Base is one of the largest employers in Oklahoma, with over 13,000 civilian and military personnel.
- Fort Sill is home to the US Army’s Field Artillery Museum, which showcases the history of field artillery in the US Army.
- Vance Air Force Base is one of the busiest air bases in the US, with over 1,000 aircraft movements per day.
- Hill Air Force Base is home to the US Air Force’s Aerial Refueling Training Center, which provides training for air refueling crews.
Table: Military Bases in Oklahoma
| Base | Location | Branch | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tinker Air Force Base | Oklahoma City | US Air Force | Maintenance, Logistics, Engineering |
| Fort Sill | Lawton | US Army | Training, Field Artillery |
| Vance Air Force Base | Enid | US Air Force | Pilot Training |
| Hill Air Force Base | Altus | US Air Force | Air Refueling, Airlift |
Conclusion
Oklahoma is home to several military bases, each playing a vital role in the country’s defense and national security. From Tinker Air Force Base to Fort Sill, Vance Air Force Base, and Hill Air Force Base, these bases provide critical support services, training, and operations to the US Armed Forces. With a rich military history, Oklahoma continues to be an important location for the US military, and its military bases play a significant role in the state’s economy and community.
