Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
Overview
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (AFB) is a prominent United States Air Force installation located in Tucson, Arizona. It serves as a critical hub for various military operations, training exercises, and aircraft storage. The base is named in honor of two World War I pilots, Lieutenants Samuel H. Davis and Oscar Monthan, both of whom were natives of Tucson. Davis-Monthan AFB is renowned for its role in housing the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), commonly referred to as "The Boneyard," which is the largest aircraft storage and preservation facility in the world.
History
The origins of Davis-Monthan AFB trace back to the early 1920s when the site was first used as a municipal airport. In 1925, the Tucson City Council dedicated the airfield to Samuel H. Davis and Oscar Monthan. The U.S. Army Air Corps took control of the facility in 1940, transforming it into a military base to support the nation's burgeoning air power needs during World War II. Throughout the war, Davis-Monthan AFB served as a training ground for bomber crews and a storage site for surplus aircraft.
In the post-war period, the base expanded its role to include various strategic and tactical operations. During the Cold War, Davis-Monthan AFB became a key component of the Strategic Air Command (SAC), hosting B-47 Stratojet bombers and later B-52 Stratofortress aircraft. The base also played a significant role in the Vietnam War, supporting airlift and reconnaissance missions.
Current Operations
Today, Davis-Monthan AFB is home to the 355th Wing, which is part of the Air Combat Command (ACC). The 355th Wing's primary mission is to provide attack airpower and support combat search and rescue operations. The base also hosts several tenant units, including the 563rd Rescue Group, which specializes in combat search and rescue missions, and the 55th Electronic Combat Group, which operates EC-130H Compass Call aircraft for electronic warfare.
The base's strategic location in the southwestern United States allows it to support a wide range of training exercises and joint operations with other military branches and allied nations. Davis-Monthan AFB is also a key player in the Air Force's pilot training programs, offering advanced instruction for A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots.
The Boneyard
One of the most distinctive features of Davis-Monthan AFB is the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), colloquially known as "The Boneyard." This facility serves as the primary storage and preservation site for retired military aircraft. The dry desert climate of Tucson provides ideal conditions for storing aircraft, minimizing corrosion and deterioration.
AMARG manages over 4,000 aircraft, including fighters, bombers, transport planes, and helicopters. The facility plays a crucial role in the military aircraft lifecycle, offering services such as aircraft regeneration, parts reclamation, and disposal. The Boneyard is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in aviation history and technology.
Environmental and Community Impact
Davis-Monthan AFB has a significant impact on the local economy and community. The base employs thousands of military personnel and civilians, contributing to the economic stability of the Tucson area. Additionally, the base engages in various community outreach programs, fostering positive relationships with local residents and organizations.
Environmental stewardship is a priority for Davis-Monthan AFB, which implements numerous initiatives to minimize its ecological footprint. The base is committed to sustainable practices, including energy conservation, waste reduction, and habitat preservation. These efforts ensure that the base operates in harmony with the surrounding desert ecosystem.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, Davis-Monthan AFB is poised to continue its vital role in national defense and military readiness. The base is undergoing infrastructure upgrades to support the next generation of aircraft and technology. These enhancements will enable Davis-Monthan AFB to maintain its status as a premier Air Force installation, capable of meeting the evolving needs of the U.S. military.
The base is also exploring opportunities to expand its training programs and joint operations with international partners. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Davis-Monthan AFB aims to remain at the forefront of military aviation and defense strategy.