Where is the Biggest Military Base in the US?
The United States has a vast network of military bases across the country, with each base playing a crucial role in the country’s defense and national security. Among these bases, one stands out as the largest and most significant: Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA).
Location and History
Located in San Antonio, Texas, JBSA is a United States Air Force (USAF) base that was established in 2010 through the merger of three separate military bases: Lackland Air Force Base, Keller Army Base, and Randolph Air Force Base. The base is situated approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio and covers an area of 13,000 acres.
Size and Facilities
JBSA is the largest military base in the United States, with a total area of 13,000 acres and a population of over 160,000 military personnel, civilians, and family members. The base is home to a diverse range of military units, including the USAF, United States Army (USA), United States Navy (USN), and United States Marine Corps (USMC).
The base is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- Over 100 buildings and structures
- More than 2,000 acres of runway and taxiway space
- Multiple hangars and maintenance facilities
- A 24-hour medical center
- A fitness center and recreational facilities
- A chapel and religious facilities
- A library and education center
Military Units and Operations
JBSA is home to a wide range of military units and operations, including:
- Air Education and Training Command (AETC): responsible for training pilots and aircrew members
- Air Force Security Forces: provides security and law enforcement services
- US Army North (Fifth Army): responsible for homeland defense and disaster response
- US Army South (Sixth Army): responsible for military operations in Central and South America
- US Navy and Marine Corps units: provide support and services to the base
Economic Impact
JBSA has a significant economic impact on the local community, generating:
- Over $10 billion in annual economic output
- Over 100,000 jobs
- Over $1 billion in annual payroll
- Over $500 million in annual local purchases
Interesting Facts
- JBSA is the largest employer in San Antonio, with over 160,000 employees
- The base has its own fire department, with over 100 firefighters and emergency medical technicians
- JBSA has a dedicated police department, with over 100 police officers and security personnel
- The base has its own hospital, with over 100 medical staff and facilities
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joint Base San Antonio is the largest military base in the United States, covering an area of 13,000 acres and housing over 160,000 military personnel, civilians, and family members. The base is home to a diverse range of military units and operations, and has a significant economic impact on the local community. Whether you’re a military personnel, a civilian, or just interested in learning more about the US military, JBSA is an important and fascinating place to explore.
Table: JBSA Statistics
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Area | 13,000 acres |
| Population | Over 160,000 |
| Buildings | Over 100 |
| Runway and Taxiway Space | Over 2,000 acres |
| Military Units | Over 100 |
| Economic Output | Over $10 billion |
| Jobs | Over 100,000 |
| Payroll | Over $1 billion |
| Local Purchases | Over $500 million |
Bullets: JBSA Facilities and Services
• 24-hour medical center
• Fitness center and recreational facilities
• Chapel and religious facilities
• Library and education center
• Multiple hangars and maintenance facilities
• Over 100 buildings and structures
• More than 2,000 acres of runway and taxiway space
