Duke Field, also known as Eglin Air Force Base Auxiliary Field 3, is a United States Air Force auxiliary field located in Okaloosa County, Florida, just south of Crestview, Florida. The base is named after Duke Field’s namesake, Lt. Gen. Duke, but it’s actually located near the city of Crestview, and it’s often confused with the more famous Eglin Air Force Base. Here are five interesting facts about Duke Field:
Historical Significance: Duke Field has been in operation since 1942, when it was established as a bombing and gunnery range for the U.S. Army Air Forces. During World War II, the field was used for training bomber pilots and aircrew members. Today, the base is still used for military training and operations, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and helicopter training.
Unique Mission: Duke Field is one of the few U.S. military bases that is home to a wide variety of aircraft, including the MQ-9 Reaper, a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) used for reconnaissance and combat missions. The base is also used for helicopter training, with the U.S. Army’s 96th Aviation Brigade and the U.S. Air Force’s 919th Special Operations Wing operating from the field.
Environmental Conservation: Despite being a military base, Duke Field is also a haven for wildlife. The base is home to several endangered species, including the eastern indigo snake, the gopher tortoise, and the red-cockaded woodpecker. The U.S. Air Force has implemented several conservation efforts to protect these species, including the creation of wildlife corridors and habitats.
Community Involvement: Duke Field is an active member of the local community, with several outreach programs and events throughout the year. The base hosts an annual air show, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the region. The base also participates in local events, such as parades and festivals, and provides support to local organizations and charities.
Economic Impact: Duke Field has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an estimated annual economic output of over $100 million. The base employs hundreds of personnel, both military and civilian, and generates revenue through contracts and procurement. The base is also a major driver of economic growth in the region, with several businesses and industries locating in the area to support the base’s operations.
These facts highlight the importance of Duke Field to the U.S. military, the local community, and the environment. The base plays a critical role in supporting national defense, while also contributing to the local economy and conservation efforts.
In terms of its relationship with Eglin Air Force Base, Duke Field is actually one of several auxiliary fields that support Eglin’s operations. Eglin is a much larger base, with a wider range of missions and activities, including research and development, testing and evaluation, and training. Duke Field, on the other hand, is focused primarily on training and operations, with a smaller footprint and a more specialized mission.
What is the primary mission of Duke Field?
+The primary mission of Duke Field is to support military training and operations, including unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and helicopter training.
What types of aircraft are based at Duke Field?
+Duke Field is home to a variety of aircraft, including the MQ-9 Reaper, a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) used for reconnaissance and combat missions, as well as helicopters used for training and operations.
How does Duke Field contribute to the local economy?
+Duke Field has an estimated annual economic output of over $100 million, and employs hundreds of personnel, both military and civilian. The base also generates revenue through contracts and procurement, and is a major driver of economic growth in the region.
Overall, Duke Field plays a vital role in supporting national defense, while also contributing to the local economy and conservation efforts. Its unique mission, community involvement, and environmental conservation efforts make it an important and fascinating example of how military bases can balance their operational requirements with social and environmental responsibilities.
