Introduction to Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota
Ellsworth Air Force Base, located in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a United States Air Force base that has been in operation since 1942. The base is named after Brigadier General Richard E. Ellsworth, a pioneer in the field of military aviation who lost his life in a plane crash in 1953. Ellsworth AFB is home to the 28th Bomb Wing, which is one of the largest wings in the Air Force, and is responsible for operating and maintaining the B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft.
History of Ellsworth Air Force Base
The history of Ellsworth AFB dates back to the early 1940s, when the United States Army Air Corps began constructing the base as a training facility for B-17 Flying Fortress bomber crews. During World War II, the base played a significant role in the war effort, with thousands of airmen and aircraft passing through the base. In the post-war period, Ellsworth AFB continued to evolve, with the base becoming a key player in the Cold War era, operating B-29 Superfortress and B-36 Peacemaker bombers.
Mission and Operations
The primary mission of Ellsworth AFB is to provide global strike capability to the United States Air Force. The base is home to the 28th Bomb Wing, which operates and maintains a fleet of B-1B Lancer bombers. The wing is responsible for providing conventional and nuclear strike capability, as well as supporting homeland defense and theater security cooperation missions. In addition to its operational mission, Ellsworth AFB is also home to a number of support units, including logistics, security forces, and medical units.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Ellsworth AFB covers an area of over 3,500 acres, and features a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its mission. The base has two runways, each over 13,000 feet long, as well as a number of hangars, maintenance facilities, and support buildings. The base is also home to a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, pool, and fitness center.
Economic Impact
Ellsworth AFB has a significant economic impact on the local community, with the base generating over $200 million in economic activity each year. The base employs over 4,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in the region. In addition to its direct economic impact, Ellsworth AFB also plays a significant role in supporting the local tourism industry, with many visitors to the base and surrounding area drawn by the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and other local attractions.
Community Involvement
Ellsworth AFB is committed to community involvement, with the base participating in a range of outreach programs and community events. The base has a strong partnership with the local school district, with many base personnel volunteering as mentors and coaches for local students. The base also hosts a range of community events, including air shows, parades, and charity functions.💡 Note: The base is also home to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, which showcases the history of aviation in the region and features a range of historic aircraft on display.
Environmental Stewardship
Ellsworth AFB is committed to environmental stewardship, with the base implementing a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The base has a recycling program in place, as well as a range of energy-saving measures to reduce its carbon footprint. The base is also home to a number of wildlife conservation programs, including a bison conservation program and a prairie dog management program.| Year | Unit | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|
| 1942 | 28th Bombardment Group | B-17 Flying Fortress |
| 1950s | 28th Bombardment Wing | B-29 Superfortress |
| 1960s | 28th Bombardment Wing | B-52 Stratofortress |
| 1980s | 28th Bombardment Wing | B-1B Lancer |
In summary, Ellsworth Air Force Base is a vital military installation that plays a significant role in the United States Air Force. With its rich history, diverse mission, and commitment to community involvement and environmental stewardship, the base is an important part of the local community and a valuable asset to the nation.
What is the primary mission of Ellsworth Air Force Base?
+The primary mission of Ellsworth Air Force Base is to provide global strike capability to the United States Air Force.
What type of aircraft are operated by the 28th Bomb Wing?
+The 28th Bomb Wing operates the B-1B Lancer bomber aircraft.
What is the economic impact of Ellsworth Air Force Base on the local community?
+The base generates over $200 million in economic activity each year and employs over 4,000 people, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
