Offutt AFB, NE

Offutt AFB, NE 68113 | Base Operator: DSN: 271-1110, (402) 294-1110

Offutt AFB: Overview

Offutt Air Force Base (AFB) maintains a number of crucial missions that are vital to national security. It serves as the host of the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) and the 55th Wing of the Air Combat Command. The 55th Wing, which also serves as the host unit of Offutt AFB, maintains a number of intelligence-related tasks. These tasks include electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and communications. One of the main platforms deployed to conduct this mission is the RC-135.

The origins of Offutt AFB can be traced back to WWI. The United States Army established this base to be used as a balloon field. Balloon technology was extremely popular during this area due to the fact that an airborne platform, such as a balloon, was effective in terms of reconnaissance. During WWII the mission changed to producing bombers for the war effort. The bombers produced included the B-26 and B-29. During the Cold War, Offutt served as the HQ of the Strategic Air Command (SAC).

Offutt AFB: Education

Considering the mission of Offutt AFB, you must be motivated to earn your college degree. A great way to accomplish that goal is to attend an online school. Online schools are a great choice for military members due to the fact that they provide you with a quality education in a portable format, so you never have to delay your degree progress. You may want to request information from a number of these schools. Start by clicking the "Find A School" button below:

Offutt AFB: Location

The base is right next to Omaha, Nebraska, which is located in the vicinity of the Missouri River Valley. There are a number of waterways nearby, including the Missouri River, Lake Manawa, Papillion Creek, Carter Lake, the Platte River, and Glenn Cunningham Lake. Originally it was built in a low lying field and housed structures for the Air Force Generals. The base also served as a breeding place for prisoners and casualties from the World War. Cities in the area include, La Vista, NE, Bellevue, NE, Papillion, NE, Fremont, NE, Lincoln, NE, Columbus, NE, Beatrice, NE, South Sioux City, NE, and Norfolk, NE

Offutt AFB: Interesting Facts

The namesake of the installation is 1st LT Jarvis Offutt. LT Offutt was an Omaha native serving as a pilot in the U.S. Signal Corps. He was killed in action during WWI.
The Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) is also based at Offutt. Its mission is to deliver vital weather information to American forces.
The Enola Gay, which dropped the first atomic bomb in combat on Hiroshima, was produced at Offutt.