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Unlike most air bases in the United States, the Goodfellow AFB is a non-flying base. Its primary purpose is to serve as a training ground for the personnel in the U. S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and the Navy. It is located in Texas, and named in honor of late General Goodfellow, an aviator in World War 1.
The Goodfellow AFB is a part of the Air Education and Training Command that was established in 1993. It was established by combining the Air University and Ai Training Command. The Air Education and Training Command reports to the U. S. Air Force head quarter.
Background
The establishment of this facility takes us back to the time when Pearl Harbor was attacked. In 1918, a couple of unsuccessful missions to retreat lead to a greater effort invested in the air force base. Thus, advanced air training began to be provided to American soldiers and within three to five years, Goodfellow specialized in training personnel in cryptology and military intelligence.
After 1958, the operations declined. Still, some minor activities kept on being administered at . By 1975, the runways of the Goodfellow AFB had to be closed permanently. Finally, the base was converted into an air-training center and the missions had been closed. It was then that Goodfellow excelled greatly in its quality of providing air training and command. It specialized in targeting, electronic intelligence operations training, intelligence applications, and advanced imagery training. By 1992, the title Air Training Command was finally replaced with the title: AETC Air Education and Training Command from which, as aforementioned, came into being.
The major units in the base are as follows:
17th training wing: this is the host fellow at the air force base.
Texas Air National Guard: this is the 217th Training squadron.
344th military Intelligence Battalion
Goodfellow has maintained its quality by constantly modifying itself and adding new facilities and modern installations. These recreational activities at the base make it an attractive school for learning Air Training. The comfort and facilities provided reflect a deep concern toward the physical and psychological well being along with building up their career.
A large, properly furnished dining hall: Other than recreational services for the personnel, Goodfellow provides comfortable living and a safe environment marked by advanced medical facilities. It even encourages spiritual growth by providing chapel service.
The base is one of the most important USA Air Force facilities, and it is considered as being of national importance. There are plans to increase the capacity of it even more, and in the near future, we could expect new recruits. It is no surprise that this base is considered important, as its position allows it to be a strategic base for USA.
