Where is Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland?
Andrews Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located approximately 10 miles (16 km) southeast of Washington, D.C., in Prince George’s County, Maryland. With a rich history dating back to 1941, the base is one of the most prominent military bases in the country.
Contents
History of the Base
Andrews Air Force Base was established in 1941 as a civilian flying school, but it didn’t take long for it to become a key training facility for the US Army Air Forces. During World War II, the base played a significant role in training pilots and operating cargo planes. After the war, the base remained an important training center for the US Air Force and was also used forVIP transportation and presidential travel.
Base Mission and Operations
Today, Andrews Air Force Base is home to the 89th Airlift Wing, the Air Mobility Command (AMC), and the Presidential Helicopter Squadron (PSAB). The base has a diverse range of activities, including:
- Scheduling and coordinating the worldwide transportation of military personnel and cargo
- Providing military airlift support to American forces and allies
- Operating the Executive Helicopter Fleet, which supports the President of the United States and other government leaders
- Conducting combat and humanitarian airlift operations
- Providing aerial services for the National War College and other government institutions
Andrews Air Force Base Overview
Key Statistics:
• Location: 861 Akron Ave, Joint Base Andrews, MD 20762
• Military Personnel: Approximately 1,500 active-duty Airmen
• Civilians: Over 11,000 civilian employees and contractors
• Squadrons: 35 active-duty squadrons
• Aircraft: Over 40 aircraft, including C-32/C-40, C-5M, C-17, and CH-53E helicopters
• Runways: Three runways, with over 200,000 hours of annual flight operations
• Annual Budget: Over $1.1 billion
The Base’s Impact on Local Economy
Andrews Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community in Prince George’s County and the surrounding areas. Here are some key statistics:
• Economic Input: The base generates approximately $1.2 billion in economic input annually, supporting over 18,000 jobs
• Local Spending: Military and civilian personnel spend millions each year at local businesses, including restaurants, gas stations, and retail stores
• Infrastructure Investment: The base invests significant funds in local infrastructure projects, including road construction, utility upgrades, and recreational facilities
Living and Working on Andrews Air Force Base
Living and working on Andrews Air Force Base can be a unique experience. Here are some details to consider:
• Housing: On-base housing is available for eligible personnel, with a wide range of options, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses
• Base Amenities: The base offers many amenities, including fitness centers, swimming pools, day care centers, and retail stores
• Medical Services: The base hospital provides medical services to base personnel and their families, including primary care, dentistry, and specialty clinics
• Transportation: The base has an on-site transportation department that provides shuttle services, flight line transportation, and motorcycle rentals
In Conclusion
Andrews Air Force Base is a vital component of the US Air Force and the national defense system, with a rich history dating back to 1941. Located in Prince George’s County, Maryland, the base is home to the 89th Airlift Wing, AMC, and PSAB. With a diverse range of activities, including VIP transportation, combat airlift support, and humanitarian operations, the base plays a crucial role in supporting national defense and international relations.
From its significant economic impact to its unique living and working environment, Andrews Air Force Base is an important piece of the American military ecosystem. Whether you’re looking for a career opportunity, a place to call home, or simply want to learn more about the US Air Force, Andrews AFB is a fascinating story worth exploring.
Tables and Figures:
[Table: Andrews Air Force Base Statistics]| Statistic | Amount |
|---|---|
| Number of Military Personnel | 1,500 |
| Number of Civilians | 11,000 |
| Number of Aircraft | Over 40 |
| Budget | Over $1.1 billion |
| Local Economic Input | $1.2 billion |
Getting There:
If you’re planning to visit or work at Andrews Air Force Base, here are a few tips:
- Use the Andrews Joint Base Taxiway bus service to get around the base
- Plan for security checks upon entering the base
- Be prepared for construction delays on the nearby roads
- Take advantage of the base’s community services, including the movie theater, bowling alley, and fitness center
