Base In Savannah Ga

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The vibrant city of Savannah, Georgia, is home to a significant military installation that plays a crucial role in the United States Army’s strategic operations. Hunter Army Airfield, located near Savannah, stands as a pivotal military base with a rich history and modern-day importance. Spanning across the landscape of coastal Georgia, this base represents a critical component of the nation’s military infrastructure.

Historical Roots of Hunter Army Airfield

Established in 1929, Hunter Army Airfield has evolved from a small municipal airport to a critical military installation. During World War II, the base played a pivotal role in processing combat aircraft and crews. A 1945 yearbook noted that planes and crews passing through this field saw action in nearly every combat theater throughout the world. The airfield transformed from a modest facility surrounded by scrub pines and marshlands into a tremendously energetic military installation.

Strategic Importance and Location

Situated approximately 41 miles southwest of Savannah, Hunter Army Airfield is part of the Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield complex, which is the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River. The base covers an impressive area and serves multiple critical functions:

  • Home to the 3rd Infantry Division
  • Hosts approximately 5,500 soldiers, airmen, coast guardsmen, and Marines
  • Features a massive runway stretching 11,375 feet (3,467 meters), which is the longest Army runway east of the Mississippi

Modern Military Capabilities

Today, Hunter Army Airfield continues to be a vital hub for military operations and training. The installation supports various units, including:

  • 3rd Infantry Division
  • 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team
  • 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team
  • 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade

Unique Features and Capabilities

The base boasts some remarkable characteristics that make it a critical asset to national defense:

  • NASA previously identified Hunter as an alternate landing site for Space Shuttle orbiters
  • Supports tank, field artillery, helicopter gunnery, and small arms ranges
  • Operates with minimal time lost to bad weather conditions

🏛️ Note: The base's strategic location in coastal Georgia provides excellent deployment capabilities, with proximity to deep-water ports and extensive transportation networks.

Community and Economic Impact

Hunter Army Airfield is more than just a military installation – it’s a significant contributor to the local economy and community. The base provides numerous employment opportunities and supports thousands of military personnel and their families in the Savannah area.

From its humble beginnings in 1929 to its current status as a critical military installation, Hunter Army Airfield continues to play a crucial role in national defense. Its rich history and ongoing importance make it a cornerstone of military operations in the southeastern United States.

What is the primary mission of Hunter Army Airfield?

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The primary mission is to support military operations, provide training facilities, and serve as a key deployment hub for the 3rd Infantry Division and other military units.

How large is Hunter Army Airfield?

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It features a runway that is 11,375 feet long and an aircraft parking area of more than 350 acres, making it a substantial military installation.

When was Hunter Army Airfield established?

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The airfield was originally established in 1929 and has undergone significant transformations since its inception, particularly during World War II and subsequent military conflicts.