Intro
Discover Barksdale AFBs address, base information, and facilities. Learn about the US Air Forces 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdales history, and mission. Get directions, maps, and contact details. Explore on-base amenities, housing, and services for military personnel and families. Plan your visit or relocation with our comprehensive guide to Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana.
Barksdale Air Force Base, located in Bossier Parish, Louisiana, is a United States Air Force base that serves as the headquarters of the Air Force Global Strike Command. The base is named after Lieutenant Eugene Hoy Barksdale, a World War I aviator who died in a plane crash in 1926. As one of the largest bases in the Air Force, Barksdale AFB plays a critical role in the country's national defense strategy.
Base Overview
Barksdale AFB is situated approximately 4 miles east of Bossier City, Louisiana, and 10 miles north of Shreveport, Louisiana. The base covers an area of 22,000 acres and employs over 10,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors. The base is home to the 2nd Bomb Wing, which operates the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft.
Base History
Barksdale AFB was established in 1933 as Barksdale Field, named after Lieutenant Eugene Hoy Barksdale. During World War II, the base played a significant role in the training of bomber crews and the production of B-17 and B-24 aircraft. In the 1950s and 1960s, the base was used for the storage and maintenance of B-47 and B-52 bombers. In 1991, the base was designated as a major command and control center for the Air Force.
Units and Tenant Organizations
Barksdale AFB is home to several units and tenant organizations, including:
- 2nd Bomb Wing: The wing operates the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft and provides strategic bombing capabilities to the Air Force.
- 307th Bomb Wing: The wing operates the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft and provides reserve strategic bombing capabilities to the Air Force.
- 917th Wing: The wing operates the B-52H Stratofortress bomber aircraft and provides reserve strategic bombing capabilities to the Air Force.
- Air Force Global Strike Command: The command is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Air Force's nuclear-capable bomber fleet.
Education and Healthcare
Barksdale AFB offers various educational opportunities for military personnel and their families, including:
- Barksdale Elementary School: A Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school that provides education for children in grades K-5.
- Bossier Parish Schools: The base is served by the Bossier Parish Schools system, which provides education for children in grades 6-12.
- Barksdale Community College: A community college that offers associate's degree and certificate programs.
The base also offers various healthcare services, including:
- Barksdale Medical Group: A medical clinic that provides primary care services for military personnel and their families.
- Bossier Medical Center: A hospital that provides emergency and specialty care services.
Recreation and Leisure
Barksdale AFB offers various recreational and leisure activities for military personnel and their families, including:
- Barksdale Golf Course: An 18-hole golf course that offers challenging play for golfers of all skill levels.
- Barksdale Fitness Center: A fitness center that offers exercise equipment, group fitness classes, and personal training services.
- Barksdale Outdoor Recreation: An outdoor recreation center that offers camping, hiking, and fishing equipment rentals.
Housing and Support Services
Barksdale AFB offers various housing options for military personnel and their families, including:
- On-base housing: The base offers a range of on-base housing options, including single-family homes and apartments.
- Off-base housing: The base is surrounded by several off-base housing communities that offer a range of housing options.
The base also offers various support services, including:
- Barksdale Airman and Family Readiness Center: A center that provides support services for military personnel and their families, including financial counseling, employment assistance, and childcare services.
- Barksdale Chapel: A chapel that offers spiritual support and counseling services for military personnel and their families.
Getting There and Getting Around
Barksdale AFB is located approximately 4 miles east of Bossier City, Louisiana, and 10 miles north of Shreveport, Louisiana. The base is accessible by car via Interstate 20 and Interstate 220. The base is also served by the Shreveport Regional Airport, which offers commercial flights to several destinations.
The base offers various transportation options, including:
- Barksdale Shuttle: A shuttle service that provides transportation around the base.
- Barksdale Taxi: A taxi service that provides transportation to and from the base.
Security and Access
Barksdale AFB has a robust security system in place to protect military personnel, civilians, and contractors. The base is surrounded by a perimeter fence, and access is restricted to authorized personnel only. Visitors must obtain a visitor's pass at the base's visitor center before entering the base.
Gallery of Barksdale Air Force Base Images:
Barksdale Air Force Base Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the address of Barksdale Air Force Base?
+The address of Barksdale Air Force Base is 2450 2nd Street, Suite 115, Barksdale AFB, LA 71110.
What units are stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base?
+Barksdale Air Force Base is home to the 2nd Bomb Wing, 307th Bomb Wing, 917th Wing, and Air Force Global Strike Command.
What recreational activities are available at Barksdale Air Force Base?
+Barksdale Air Force Base offers various recreational activities, including golf, fitness, and outdoor recreation.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about Barksdale Air Force Base. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to ask.