Davis Air Force Base History

Introduction to Davis Air Force Base

Davis Air Force Base, also known as Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over eight decades. Located in Tucson, Arizona, the base has played a significant role in the development of the United States military, particularly in the areas of aircraft maintenance, repair, and storage. The base is named after Lieutenant Samuel H. Davis and Oscar Monthan, two local airmen who lost their lives during World War I.

Early Years (1920s-1940s)

The history of Davis Air Force Base began in the 1920s, when the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) established a small airfield in Tucson, Arizona. The airfield, which was initially used for training and testing purposes, was later expanded and renamed Davis-Monthan Field in 1941. During World War II, the base played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a training ground for bomber crews and a maintenance facility for aircraft. The base was also used as a storage facility for surplus aircraft, which were stored in the desert to protect them from corrosion.

Cold War Era (1950s-1980s)

Following World War II, Davis Air Force Base continued to play an important role in the United States military. During the Cold War era, the base was used as a storage facility for strategic aircraft, including B-29 and B-47 bombers. The base was also home to the 390th Strategic Missile Wing, which operated Titan II intercontinental ballistic missiles. In the 1960s and 1970s, the base underwent significant expansion and modernization, with the construction of new facilities and the introduction of new technologies.

Modern Era (1990s-Present)

In the 1990s, Davis Air Force Base underwent significant changes, with the closure of several units and the introduction of new missions. The base is currently home to the 355th Fighter Wing, which operates the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. The base is also home to the 563rd Rescue Group, which provides combat search and rescue capabilities. In addition, the base is used as a storage facility for aircraft, with over 4,000 aircraft stored in the desert.

💡 Note: The base is also home to the Air National Guard's 162nd Fighter Wing, which operates the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft.

Aircraft Storage and Maintenance

One of the most unique aspects of Davis Air Force Base is its aircraft storage and maintenance facilities. The base is home to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), which is responsible for storing and maintaining surplus aircraft. The facility, which is also known as the “Boneyard,” stores over 4,000 aircraft, including bombers, fighters, and transport planes. The aircraft are stored in the desert to protect them from corrosion, and are maintained in a state of readiness in case they are needed again.

Aircraft Type	Number in Storage
B-29 Bomber	100
B-47 Bomber	200
F-16 Fighter	500
C-130 Transport	1000

Environmental Concerns

In recent years, Davis Air Force Base has faced several environmental concerns, including the contamination of groundwater and soil. The base has been identified as a Superfund site, and the United States Air Force has been working to clean up the contamination. The base has also implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including the use of renewable energy and the reduction of waste.

🌎 Note: The base has also implemented a program to reduce its water usage, which has resulted in significant savings.

In summary, Davis Air Force Base has a rich and fascinating history that spans over eight decades. From its early years as a small airfield to its current role as a major storage and maintenance facility, the base has played a significant role in the development of the United States military. With its unique aircraft storage and maintenance facilities, the base continues to play an important role in the military, while also addressing environmental concerns and implementing initiatives to reduce its impact on the environment.