Where is Scott Air Force Base in Illinois?
Located in the state of Illinois, Scott Air Force Base is a United States Air Force (USAF) base situated approximately 23 miles (37 kilometers) east of St. Louis, Missouri. The base is operated by the 375th Air Mobility Wing, and it serves as a vital hub for global airlift and air mobility operations.
History of Scott Air Force Base
Established in 1917 as Barrett Field, the base was originally designed as a military airfield for the Army Air Corps. During World War I, the airfield served as a training ground for pilots and observers. Following the war, the base was renamed Scott Field in honor of First Lieutenant Harold L. Scott, a pilot who was killed in action.
During World War II, Scott Field played a significant role in the war effort, serving as a training ground for military pilots and also hosting B-29 Superfortress bombers. The base continued to operate as a training facility and a transport hub during the Cold War era.
In 1966, Scott Field was renamed Scott Air Force Base and became part of the United States Air Force’s 375th Military Airlift Wing. Today, the base is a key component of the USAF’s airlift and air mobility mission, providing cargo and passenger transportation services around the world.
Services and Capabilities
Scott Air Force Base offers a range of services and capabilities, including:
• Airlift: The base operates a fleet of C-21 and C-17 cargo aircraft, which provide global airlift capabilities for military and civilian organizations.
• Passenger Transportation: The base’s passenger terminal serves as a hub for Space-Available flights, which allow military personnel and their families to travel on available seats.
• Refueling: Scott AFB is equipped with refueling capabilities, allowing its aircraft to refuel mid-air and extend their range and endurance.
• Maintenance and Repair: The base’s maintenance and repair facilities provide services for the maintenance and repair of military aircraft and ground equipment.
• Logistics and Supply: Scott AFB is a major hub for logistics and supply operations, providing critical supplies and equipment to military personnel and units around the world.
Important Facts about Scott Air Force Base
Here are some important facts about Scott Air Force Base:
• Population: The base has a total population of around 2,500 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.
• Square Footage: The base covers an area of approximately 5,500 acres (22.2 square kilometers).
• Employment: The base is a major employer in the surrounding community, with a workforce of over 13,000 people.
• Facilities: Scott AFB has a range of facilities, including dormitories, dining facilities, medical and recreational facilities, and an on-base post exchange (PX) and commissary.
• Base Commander: The base is commanded by Colonel Brad B. Bishop, a graduate of the United States Military Academy and a career USAF officer.
Base Statistics
Here is a table summarizing some key statistics about Scott Air Force Base:
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Location | 2450 Airmen Drive, Belleville, IL 62225 |
| Area | 5,500 acres (22.2 square kilometers) |
| Population | 2,500 (military, civilians, and contractors) |
| Employment | Over 13,000 |
| Runways | 2 runways, with a combined length of 13,500 feet (4,114 meters) |
| Annual Operations | Over 120,000 cargo tons and 1 million passengers |
| Awards and Decorations | 17 awards for outstanding performance, including the Air Mobility Command‘s Outstanding Airman of the Year award |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scott Air Force Base is a vital military installation located in the state of Illinois, approximately 23 miles east of St. Louis, Missouri. With a rich history dating back to 1917, the base has played a significant role in military aviation and airlift operations, providing critical services and capabilities to military personnel and organizations around the world. As a major employer and contributor to the local economy, Scott AFB is an important part of the local community, and its facilities and services play a crucial role in supporting military operations and global airlift capabilities.
