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Spread over a large territory in Andalusia, Spain, Morón Air Base is one of the most strategic points controlled by the Americans in Europe. It is located in the southern part of Spain, about 50 km from Sevilla and 120 km from Rota. The name comes from a close town. The huge importance of this base stays in its location. It is not too far from the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. Therefore, it can be considered to be a connection point for any American operation going east.
History
The base construction began in 1940. It was entirely built by the Spanish forces and exclusively used by the local Air Force. It took almost 13 years for an agreement to be set between Spain and the United States. The Americans pumped some money in the Spanish base, enlarging and upgrading it. The whole process took about 3 years to complete. The first operations started in 1958, with the first American tests and surveillance operations.
The camp status was constantly changed throughout its history. It was first a reflex base, then it hosted fair weather operations. By 1971, it was also used as a caretaker. After 1983, the Spanish Army allowed the US bombers to get in the air space and land at the base after a 17 years long ban. The ban occurred after an unusual accident near Palomares. Two hydrogen bombs caused a lot of trouble in the area then. One of them spread radioactive content over the human communities in the area, while a second one was lost 20 km off the coast in the sea. It took more than 12,000 military trained personnel and 90 days of searching until it was found. Believe it or not, the troops were actually guided to the bomb by a local fisherman.
2001 was the most important year in the history of Morón Air Base. It was the most active base during the Afghanistan invasion. 2003 was also a very busy year for the inhabitants, as a new invasion of Iraq was started.
The base was also part of NASA in 1984, while helping in a few space shuttle programs.
Facilities
The life at Morón Air Base is very attractive not just for the soldiers living there, but also for their families. The place is located in a quiet area with a mild climate. It is within a few hours from plenty of historical and touristic attractions. Other than that, Sevilla is famous for the flamenco festivals and the bullfights. In other words, the area comes with a new lifestyle and culture for the American families. When it comes to the entertainment, there is always something to do tomorrow.
Other than that, the health care system is very professional, as well as the multiple offices dealing with the various needs of the citizens.
Housing
The off site housing system in Morón Air Base is privatized, so you will need to discuss with an agent to find a place to stay. If you are there for a short period of time, a hotel may be the most appropriate option.
