Intro
Discover the history and significance of Barksdale Air Force Base, a strategic military installation in Louisiana. Learn about its role in national defense, notable missions, and daily operations. Get insider knowledge on the bases impact on the local community, its economic influence, and the lives of service members and families.
Barksdale Air Force Base, located in Bossier City, Louisiana, is a United States Air Force base that has been in operation since 1933. As one of the largest and most prominent military bases in the country, Barksdale AFB plays a critical role in the nation's defense and security. Here are five things to know about Barksdale Air Force Base:
Barksdale AFB has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. The base was originally established as a World War I-era training facility and was later expanded during World War II to accommodate the growing needs of the U.S. military. Over the years, the base has undergone numerous transformations and upgrades to accommodate the changing needs of the Air Force.
Mission and Operations
Barksdale AFB is home to the 2nd Bomb Wing, which is one of the largest bomb wings in the Air Force. The wing is equipped with the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft, which is capable of delivering a range of munitions, including nuclear and conventional bombs. The base also hosts a number of other units, including the 8th Air Force, which is responsible for the Air Force's nuclear deterrence mission.
Units and Organizations
Barksdale AFB is home to a number of units and organizations, including:
- 2nd Bomb Wing: The 2nd Bomb Wing is the host unit at Barksdale AFB and is responsible for operating and maintaining the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft.
- 8th Air Force: The 8th Air Force is a numbered air force that is headquartered at Barksdale AFB and is responsible for the Air Force's nuclear deterrence mission.
- Air Force Global Strike Command: The Air Force Global Strike Command is a major command that is headquartered at Barksdale AFB and is responsible for the Air Force's nuclear and conventional strike missions.
- 307th Bomb Wing: The 307th Bomb Wing is an Air Force Reserve unit that is headquartered at Barksdale AFB and is responsible for operating and maintaining the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Barksdale AFB has a range of infrastructure and facilities to support its operations, including:
- Runways: The base has two runways, each measuring 10,000 feet in length.
- Hangars: The base has a number of hangars to support the maintenance and repair of aircraft.
- Fuel storage: The base has a range of fuel storage facilities to support the needs of its aircraft.
- Training facilities: The base has a range of training facilities, including a flight simulator and a combat training center.
Economic Impact
Barksdale AFB has a significant economic impact on the local community, with the base generating an estimated $900 million in annual economic output. The base is also a major employer in the region, with over 10,000 military and civilian personnel working on the base.
Community Involvement
Barksdale AFB is committed to being a good neighbor and engages in a range of community outreach and involvement activities. The base hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the annual Barksdale Air Force Base Airshow, which attracts thousands of visitors to the area.
Barksdale Air Force Base Image Gallery
As one of the largest and most prominent military bases in the country, Barksdale AFB plays a critical role in the nation's defense and security. With its rich history, modern infrastructure, and commitment to community involvement, Barksdale AFB is an important part of the local community and the nation's military.
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