Where is Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska?
Located in the heart of the Great Plains, Offutt Air Force Base is a United States Air Force (USAF) base situated in Bellevue, Nebraska, approximately 10 miles (16 km) southwest of Omaha, the largest city in the state.
History of Offutt Air Force Base
The base was originally established as Fort Crook in 1890 as a United States Army post. During World War I, the fort was used as a training facility for military personnel. In 1942, the Army established the Army Air Forces Flying School at Fort Crook, which later became known as Offutt Field in 1943. In 1948, the base was officially renamed Offutt Air Force Base in honor of Colonel Carvelle R. Offutt, a World War I Medal of Honor recipient.
Location and Facilities
Offutt Air Force Base covers an area of approximately 1,390 acres (5.62 km²) and is home to the 55th Wing, the largest wing in the USAF. The base is situated near the confluence of the Missouri and Platte rivers and is easily accessible from Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA), which is located about 10 miles (16 km) north of the base.
Air Force Base Facts
Here are some key facts about Offutt Air Force Base:
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Population | Approximately 10,000 military and civilian personnel |
| Aircraft | Approximately 100 aircraft, including the E-4B Nightwatch, E-6B Mercury, U-2 Dragon Lady, and RC-135V/W Rivet Joint |
| Facilities | 13 hangars, 14 aircraft parking aprons, 7 runways, and numerous support facilities |
| Mission | Provides airborne command and control, aerial refueling, and signals intelligence |
E-4B Nightwatch Aircraft
Offutt Air Force Base is home to the E-4B Nightwatch, a modified Boeing 747-200 used as a mobile command center for the President of the United States, the National Command Authority, and senior government officials in the event of a national emergency.
E-6B Mercury Aircraft
The E-6B Mercury, a modified Boeing 707, is used for long-range communication and command control. It is equipped with advanced communication equipment and provides secure communication services to senior government officials.
Other Aircraft
The base also hosts the U-2 Dragon Lady, a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft, and the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint, a signals intelligence gathering aircraft.
Community Relations
Offutt Air Force Base has a strong connection with the local community and is actively involved in outreach and community relations. The base hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including the annual Offutt Air Force Base Open House and Air Show.
Education and Employment
Offutt Air Force Base has a range of educational institutions and employment opportunities available. The base offers on-site education and training programs, as well as access to local schools and universities. Additionally, the base is a major employer in the region, providing jobs for military personnel, civilians, and contractors.
Healthcare and Medical Services
The base has a medical facility, the Offutt Air Force Base Clinic, which provides primary care and minor medical procedures to military personnel and their families. More complex medical procedures are handled by the Omaha Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
Convenience and Amenities
Offutt Air Force Base has a range of convenience and amenities available to its personnel, including:
• Base Exchange ( BX): A retail store offering clothing, electronics, and other items
• Base Food Court: A dining facility offering a variety of food options
• Fitness Center: A state-of-the-art exercise facility
• Child Development Center: A childcare facility for military families
• Base Chapel: A place of worship for military personnel and their families
In conclusion, Offutt Air Force Base is a significant military installation located in Bellevue, Nebraska, approximately 10 miles (16 km) southwest of Omaha. The base is home to the 55th Wing and has a range of facilities, aircraft, and amenities available to its personnel. With a strong connection to the local community, the base is an important part of the region’s economy and culture.
