Andrews AFB, MD

Andrews AFB, MD 20762 | Base Operator: DSN 858-1110 or 301-981-1110/6161

Andrews AFB: Overview

The roots of Andrews Air Force Base (AFB) go all the way back to the Civil War when Union troops occupied a church near Camp Springs, MD using it as sleeping quarters. This church is still being used and is known as Chapel Two. The Camp Springs Army Air Field was established on August 25, 1941 during World War II, and once construction was completed, it became operation on May 2, 1943.

At this time, the primary mission of the base was to serve as the Headquarters of the Army Air Forces. Secondary missions included training for fighter and bomber crews. Andrews AFB had a number of different missions during the post-WWII era including serving as the headquarters for the Continental Air Command, the Strategic Air Command, and the Military Air Transport Service. Then, in July of 1961, the base became the official home for presidential aircraft. The Naval Air Facility (NAF) moved to Andrews in 1963. On October 1, 2009, Andrews AFB became the Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility Washington, which unified Andrews AFB and the Naval Air Facility Washington.

Andrews AFB: Education

Andrews AFB is a great place to be stationed and there are many things to see and do. It is also a great place to start going to school. Online schools provide you with the opportunity to earn your degree while serving, since you can continue to go to school even if you go on TDY or if you PCS. You may want to request information from a number of these schools. Start by clicking the "Find A School" button below:

Andrews AFB: Location

Andrews AFB is located in Prince George County in the state of Maryland and lies about 10 miles to the southeast of the Washington, D.C. border. The state of Virginia is also only about 15 miles away from the base. Andrews AFB is positioned within the town of Camp Springs, MD, and has another three towns along its borders. These towns include Clinton, Morningside, and Forestville.

Andrews AFB: Interesting Facts

The first aircraft to arrive at the base was a Republic P-47 Thunderbolt.
The F-80 Shooting Star was the first jet-powered aircraft to be permanently assigned to the base.
Prior to being permanently assigned to Andrews AFB, presidential aircraft were based at Washington National Airport and Bolling AFB.
The base was eventually named Andrews Field on March 31, 1945, in honor of Lt. Gen. Frank M. Andrews, who was the Commander of European Operations for all Army Air Forces.

For more information about Andrews AFB, please visit www.andrews.af.mil.