Barksdale Air Force Base Overview
Barksdale Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located approximately 4.5 miles east of the central business district of Bossier City, Louisiana. The base is under the jurisdiction of the Air Force Global Strike Command and serves as the headquarters for the 2d Bomb Wing, which is one of the oldest units in the Air Force.
The base is named after 2nd Lieutenant Eugene Hoy Barksdale, a World War I aviator who died on August 17, 1926, during flight testing. The installation is one of the largest employers in the region, with over 26,000 military and civilian personnel, making it a significant economic driver for the local community.
Address and Contact Information
The address of Barksdale Air Force Base is: Barksdale Air Force Base 246 Dyess Avenue Barksdale AFB, LA 71110 For general information and inquiries, individuals can contact the base via phone at (318) 456-1110 or visit their official website for more detailed information.
Base Operations and Units
Barksdale Air Force Base is home to several key units and organizations, including:
- The 2d Bomb Wing, which operates the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft.
- The 2d Operations Group, responsible for the wing’s operational squadrons.
- The 2d Maintenance Group, which provides maintenance support for the B-52 fleet.
- The 2d Mission Support Group, offering a range of support services including security, communications, and logistics.
History and Significance
Barksdale Air Force Base has a rich military history, dating back to its establishment in 1933 as Barksdale Field. Over the years, the base has played a significant role in various military operations and has been home to numerous aircraft types. Today, it remains a crucial component of the United States’ nuclear deterrent capability, with the 2d Bomb Wing being one of only two B-52 wings in the Air Force.
The base has also been involved in space exploration, with the 2d Bomb Wing providing support for NASA's Space Shuttle program. Moreover, Barksdale AFB has hosted several high-profile events, including air shows and open houses, which have helped to promote public awareness and understanding of the base's mission and operations.
Quality of Life and Facilities
Barksdale Air Force Base offers a range of facilities and services to support the quality of life of its personnel and their families. These include:
- Housing: The base has a variety of on-base housing options, including single-family homes and apartments.
- Education: There are several schools in the local area, including Barksdale Elementary School, which is located on the base.
- Healthcare: The 2d Medical Group provides medical care and support services to base personnel and their families.
- Recreation: The base has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, bowling alley, and fitness center.
📝 Note: The specific facilities and services available may be subject to change, and individuals should contact the base directly for the most up-to-date information.
Environmental Concerns and Initiatives
Like many military installations, Barksdale Air Force Base has faced environmental concerns related to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the local water supply. In response, the base has implemented various initiatives to address these concerns, including the provision of alternative water sources and the development of a PFAS remediation plan.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Quality Monitoring | Regular testing of the local water supply to detect the presence of PFAS and other contaminants. |
| Alternative Water Sources | Provision of alternative water sources, such as bottled water, to personnel and families affected by PFAS contamination. |
| PFAS Remediation Plan | Development of a comprehensive plan to remediate PFAS contamination on the base, including the removal of contaminated soil and groundwater. |
In summary, Barksdale Air Force Base is a significant military installation with a rich history and a critical role in the United States’ nuclear deterrent capability. The base offers a range of facilities and services to support the quality of life of its personnel and their families, and is committed to addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainability.
What is the primary mission of Barksdale Air Force Base?
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The primary mission of Barksdale Air Force Base is to provide strategic bomber capability to the United States Air Force, with the 2d Bomb Wing operating the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft.
What facilities and services are available to personnel and families on the base?
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The base offers a range of facilities and services, including housing, education, healthcare, and recreation. These include single-family homes and apartments, several schools in the local area, medical care and support services, and recreational facilities such as a golf course, bowling alley, and fitness center.
How is the base addressing environmental concerns related to PFAS contamination?
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The base has implemented various initiatives to address PFAS contamination, including water quality monitoring, the provision of alternative water sources, and the development of a PFAS remediation plan. These efforts aim to protect the health and well-being of personnel and families, while also promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
