F.E. Warren AFB: A Complete Guide

Introduction

F.E. Warren Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Cheyenne, Wyoming. It is one of the oldest continuously active military installations in the United States, dating back to 1867 when it was established as Fort D.A. Russell. Today, F.E. Warren AFB is home to the 90th Missile Wing (90 MW), which operates the LGM-30G Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of F.E. Warren AFB, covering its history, mission, units, and community.

History of F.E. Warren AFB

Early Years as Fort D.A. Russell

Fort D.A. Russell was established in 1867 as part of the U.S. Army's efforts to protect the transcontinental railroad and maintain peace in the region. The fort was named in honor of Brigadier General David Allen Russell, who was killed in action during the Civil War. Initially, the fort housed cavalry and infantry units and played a crucial role in the Indian Wars.

Transition to Air Force Base

In 1930, the fort was renamed Fort Francis E. Warren in honor of Wyoming's first senator, Francis Emroy Warren. In 1947, with the establishment of the U.S. Air Force as a separate branch of the military, the base transitioned from an Army post to an Air Force base. F.E. Warren AFB became a key component of the nation's strategic defense during the Cold War.

Cold War and ICBM Mission

In 1958, F.E. Warren AFB was selected as the first ICBM base. The 90th Strategic Missile Wing was activated in 1963, and the first Minuteman I missiles were deployed. Over the years, the base has upgraded its missile systems, and today, it operates the LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM, a critical component of the U.S. nuclear triad.

Mission and Units

90th Missile Wing

The primary mission of F.E. Warren AFB is to operate and maintain the LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM system. The 90th Missile Wing is responsible for the security, maintenance, and operational readiness of 150 Minuteman III missiles dispersed across Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. The wing is organized into three main groups:

• 90th Operations Group: Responsible for the operational employment of the ICBM system.
• 90th Maintenance Group: Responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the missiles and associated equipment.
• 90th Security Forces Group: Responsible for the security of the missile fields and base.

Other Units

In addition to the 90th Missile Wing, F.E. Warren AFB hosts several other units, including: — Jaylen Brown Stats: 2024, Career, Highlights & More

• 20th Air Force: Responsible for the operational control of all U.S. Air Force ICBMs.
• Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC): The parent command for 20th Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing.
• Various support units: Providing medical, logistical, and administrative support to the base population.

Base Life and Community

Housing

F.E. Warren AFB offers a variety of housing options for military members and their families. On-base housing is managed by a private company and includes single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments. There are also numerous housing options available in the surrounding communities.

Education

For families with children, there are several schools located on and off base. The base has its own elementary school, and older students attend schools in the local school districts. There are also numerous daycare and preschool options available. — Countdown To November 8th: Days Left And Fun Facts

Recreation and Amenities

F.E. Warren AFB offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities, including:

• Fitness centers and sports fields
• Swimming pool
• Golf course
• Bowling alley
• Movie theater
• Outdoor recreation areas

Community Support

The base community is supported by various organizations, including the Airman & Family Readiness Center, which provides resources and programs to help military members and their families. The base also has a strong relationship with the local community, with numerous events and activities that bring military members and civilians together.

Economic Impact

F.E. Warren AFB is a major economic driver in the Cheyenne, Wyoming region. The base employs thousands of military members and civilians and contributes significantly to the local economy through salaries, contracts, and other spending. The base also supports numerous businesses in the surrounding communities.

Challenges and Future

Modernization of ICBM Systems

One of the major challenges facing F.E. Warren AFB is the need to modernize its ICBM systems. The Minuteman III missiles have been in service for decades, and while they have been upgraded over the years, they will eventually need to be replaced. The Air Force is currently working on a program called the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD), which will replace the Minuteman III with a new ICBM system.

Cybersecurity

Another challenge is cybersecurity. As a critical component of the nation's strategic defense, F.E. Warren AFB is a potential target for cyberattacks. The base has implemented numerous measures to protect its systems and data, but cybersecurity remains a top priority.

Community Relations

Maintaining strong relationships with the local community is also essential. F.E. Warren AFB works closely with the city of Cheyenne and other local stakeholders to address issues of mutual concern and ensure that the base remains a valuable asset to the community.

Conclusion

F.E. Warren AFB has a long and distinguished history, dating back to its establishment as Fort D.A. Russell in 1867. Today, the base plays a crucial role in the nation's strategic defense as the home of the 90th Missile Wing and its LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBMs. F.E. Warren AFB is also a vibrant community, offering a wide range of amenities and support services for military members and their families. As the base looks to the future, it will continue to adapt to new challenges and opportunities while remaining a vital part of the U.S. Air Force.

FAQ Section

What is the primary mission of F.E. Warren AFB?

The primary mission of F.E. Warren AFB is to operate and maintain the LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM system, a critical component of the U.S. nuclear triad.

How many Minuteman III missiles are operated by the 90th Missile Wing?

The 90th Missile Wing operates 150 Minuteman III missiles dispersed across Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska.

What is the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program?

The GBSD program is an Air Force initiative to replace the aging Minuteman III ICBM system with a new, more modern system.

What types of housing are available at F.E. Warren AFB?

F.E. Warren AFB offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments, both on base and in the surrounding communities.

What recreational activities are available on base?

The base offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fitness centers, sports fields, a swimming pool, a golf course, a bowling alley, a movie theater, and outdoor recreation areas. — Weather Radar Fort Wayne: Real-Time Updates

How does F.E. Warren AFB support the local community?

The base has a strong relationship with the local community, participating in numerous events and activities that bring military members and civilians together. It is also a major economic driver in the Cheyenne region.

What is the 20th Air Force?

The 20th Air Force is responsible for the operational control of all U.S. Air Force ICBMs and is headquartered at F.E. Warren AFB.