Where is Dover Air Force Base?
Dover Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Dover, Delaware, approximately 35 miles (56 km) south of Wilmington, Delaware, and 60 miles (97 km) north of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The base is situated in Kent County, Delaware, and is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as US Route 113 and Delaware Route 1 passing nearby.
History of Dover AFB
Dover AFB has a rich history dating back to 1941, when it was established as a Municipal Airport. During World War II, the airport was converted into a military airfield, and in 1943, it was officially designated as Dover Army Air Field. After the war, the base was returned to civilian use, but in 1951, it was reactivated as a United States Air Force base, and its name was changed to Dover Air Force Base.
Mission and Operations
Dover AFB is a primary aerial port for the US Air Force, responsible for receiving and processing cargo and passengers from around the world. The base is home to the 436th Airlift Wing, which operates C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft, as well as the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron, which provides logistics and supply chain management services.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics about Dover AFB:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Dover, Delaware, USA |
| Size | 6,400 acres (2,590 hectares) |
| Personnel | Approximately 6,000 active-duty personnel, civilians, and contractors |
| Aircraft | C-5M Super Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, and other aircraft |
| Cargo | Over 1 million tons of cargo processed annually |
| Passengers | Over 200,000 passengers processed annually |
Facilities and Services
Dover AFB has a range of facilities and services, including:
- Aerial Port: A state-of-the-art facility for receiving and processing cargo and passengers
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Services provided by the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron
- Medical Services: A medical facility providing primary care and emergency services
- Dining and Recreation: Several dining facilities, a fitness center, and recreational activities
- Housing: On-base housing for personnel and their families
Security and Safety
Dover AFB is a secure facility, with access restricted to authorized personnel and vehicles. The base has a range of security measures in place, including:
- Fencing: Perimeter fencing surrounding the base
- Gates: Controlled access points for personnel and vehicles
- Security Personnel: Armed security personnel patrolling the base
- Surveillance: CCTV cameras and other surveillance systems monitoring the base
Community Involvement
Dover AFB is committed to community involvement, with a range of programs and initiatives aimed at supporting local residents and businesses. Some examples include:
- Volunteer Programs: Opportunities for personnel to volunteer in the local community
- Community Outreach: Regular outreach and engagement activities with local residents and businesses
- Economic Development: Support for local economic development initiatives and businesses
Conclusion
Dover Air Force Base is a vital component of the United States Air Force, playing a critical role in supporting military operations and global logistics. Located in Dover, Delaware, the base is easily accessible by car and has a range of facilities and services to support personnel and their families. With a rich history dating back to 1941, Dover AFB is a key part of the US Air Force’s global network, and its personnel and facilities are dedicated to supporting the military’s mission.
