Where is Scott Air Force Base?
Location and Overview
Scott Air Force Base (IATA: BLV, ICAO: KBLV, FAA LID: BLV) is a United States Air Force base located in Belleville, Illinois, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of St. Louis, Missouri. The base is situated on the southern edge of Belleville, with parts of the base extending into Scott County, Illinois, and St. Clair County, Illinois.
History
Scott Air Force Base was established in 1917 as a World War I military training base, named after Major Harold L. Scott, a decorated aviator who was killed in action in 1918. During World War II, the base served as a major hub for air transport and supply missions. In the post-war era, the base played a significant role in the development of the United States’ nuclear deterrent, with the 126th Bomb Wing, a strategic bombardment wing, being based there.
Units and Mission
Today, Scott Air Force Base is a Major Command base that serves as the global mobility hub for the Air Mobility Command (AMC). The base is home to:
• 60th Air Mobility Wing: The wing’s mission is to provide strategic airlift, aerial refueling, and transportation command and control capabilities to the U.S. military and international partners.
• 2nd Air Postal Directorate: The directorate is responsible for processing and dispatching military and civilian mail.
• Scott Air Force Base Healthcare System: The base hospital provides medical care to military personnel, dependents, and retirees.
Air Traffic Control and Airport Information
Scott Air Force Base is served by the St. Louis Regional Airport (BLV), which is a public-use airport that also handles general aviation and cargo operations. The airport has:
• Two runways: Runway 16L/34R (10,000 feet/3,048 meters long) and Runway 8/26 (6,500 feet/1,981 meters long)
• One helipad: For military helicopter operations
Community Information
The base is a significant contributor to the local economy, with many residents working at the base or providing support services to military personnel and their families. The surrounding area offers:
• Affordable housing: A range of housing options are available, from apartments to single-family homes.
• Local amenities: Grocery stores, restaurants, schools, and recreational facilities are all within a short drive of the base.
• Outdoor activities: The nearby Shawnee National Forest and Mississippi River offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and boating.
In conclusion
Scott Air Force Base is a critical component of the United States’ military infrastructure, providing global mobility and logistics support to military personnel and international partners. Located in southern Illinois, the base offers a range of services and amenities to military personnel and their families, as well as a significant economic impact to the local community.
Key Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Belleville, Illinois |
| Base Size | 4,400 acres (1,781 hectares) |
| Personnel | Approximately 12,000 military and civilian personnel |
| Aircraft | Various, including C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, KC-46 Pegasus |
| Annual Cargo | Over 100,000 tons of cargo |
| Mission | Global mobility and logistics support |
Sources:
- Scott Air Force Base official website
- Air Mobility Command official website
- St. Louis Regional Airport official website
- Local government and tourism websites
