Where is Offutt Air Force Base?
Offutt Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Sarpy County, Nebraska, United States. It is situated approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) southwest of Omaha, the largest city in Nebraska. The base is easily accessible from Interstate 80, making it a convenient location for personnel and visitors alike.
History of Offutt Air Force Base
Offutt Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1918, when it was established as Omaha Army Air Field. During World War I, the base was used as a training facility for pilots. In 1924, the base was renamed Offutt Field in honor of Captain Lloyd R. Offutt, a World War I pilot who was killed in action.
During World War II, Offutt Field played a significant role in the war effort, serving as a training base for pilots and aircrews. In 1945, the base was designated as a Strategic Air Command (SAC) base, and it has remained a key part of the Air Force’s strategic operations ever since.
What is Offutt Air Force Base Used For?
Today, Offutt Air Force Base is home to the US Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), which is responsible for coordinating and conducting global military operations. The base is also the headquarters for the 55th Wing, which operates the Boeing B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
In addition to its strategic role, Offutt Air Force Base is also home to a variety of other units, including the 55th Operations Group, the 55th Maintenance Group, and the 55th Medical Group. The base has a total of 6,500 active-duty military personnel, as well as 1,500 civilians.
Facilities and Amenities
Offutt Air Force Base offers a range of facilities and amenities to its personnel, including:
- On-base housing: The base has a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.
- Base exchange: The base has a commissary and exchange (BX/PX) that offers a range of goods and services.
- Fitness center: The base has a state-of-the-art fitness center with a range of exercise equipment and classes.
- Base dining: The base has several dining options, including a restaurant and several snack bars.
- Child development centers: The base has several child development centers that offer childcare services for children from six weeks to 5 years old.
Education and Training
Offutt Air Force Base offers a range of education and training programs, including:
- Airman Leadership School: The base offers an Airman Leadership School that is designed to help airmen develop leadership skills.
- Non-commissioned officer academy: The base offers a non-commissioned officer academy that is designed to help airmen develop leadership skills and prepare for promotion to senior non-commissioned officer ranks.
- Officer training: The base offers officer training programs that are designed to help officers develop leadership skills and prepare for command positions.
- Continuing education: The base offers a range of continuing education programs that are designed to help airmen develop new skills and advance their careers.
Recreation and Leisure
Offutt Air Force Base offers a range of recreational and leisure activities, including:
- Fitness classes: The base offers a range of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and kickboxing.
- Outdoor recreation: The base has several outdoor recreation areas, including a lake, a swimming pool, and a hiking trail.
- Libraries: The base has several libraries that offer a range of books, movies, and music.
- Arts and crafts: The base offers several arts and crafts programs, including painting, pottery, and sewing.
Getting to Offutt Air Force Base
Offutt Air Force Base is located approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) southwest of Omaha, Nebraska. The base is easily accessible from Interstate 80, and there are several ways to get to the base depending on your starting location. Here are a few options:
- From Omaha: Take Interstate 80 west from Omaha and exit at the Offutt Air Force Base exit. Follow the signs to the base.
- From Lincoln: Take Interstate 80 east from Lincoln and exit at the Offutt Air Force Base exit. Follow the signs to the base.
- From other locations: The base is accessible from several other locations, including Highway 6 and Highway 31. Follow the signs to the base.
Conclusion
Offutt Air Force Base is a strategic military base located in Sarpy County, Nebraska, United States. The base has a rich history dating back to 1918 and is home to a variety of units, including the US Strategic Command and the 55th Wing. The base offers a range of facilities and amenities, including on-base housing, a base exchange, and fitness centers. Offutt Air Force Base is an important part of the US military’s strategic operations, and it plays a significant role in maintaining national security.
Table: Key Statistics about Offutt Air Force Base
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Sarpy County, Nebraska, USA |
| Established | 1918 |
| Size | 1,700 acres (690 hectares) |
| Population | 6,500 active-duty military personnel, 1,500 civilians |
| Units | US Strategic Command, 55th Wing, 55th Operations Group, 55th Maintenance Group, 55th Medical Group |
| Facilities | On-base housing, base exchange, fitness center, base dining, child development centers |
| Education and Training | Airman Leadership School, Non-commissioned officer academy, Officer training, Continuing education |
Bullets: Key Takeaways
- Offutt Air Force Base is located in Sarpy County, Nebraska, USA.
- The base has a rich history dating back to 1918.
- The base is home to a variety of units, including the US Strategic Command and the 55th Wing.
- The base offers a range of facilities and amenities, including on-base housing, a base exchange, and fitness centers.
- Offutt Air Force Base is an important part of the US military’s strategic operations.
