58th CSS Gila Bend AFAF

• Strategic Location: The 58th Combat Support Squadron (CSS) is stationed at Gila Bend Auxiliary Field (AFAF) in Arizona, a critical site for training U.S. Air Force personnel due to its vast airspace and remote desert terrain. • Support Role: The squadron provides essential base operations and combat support, including security, logistics, and facility maintenance, ensuring the success of training missions at Gila Bend. • Part of the 56th Fighter Wing: The 58th CSS operates under the 56th Fighter Wing, which is headquartered at Luke Air Force Base, one of the largest fighter pilot training bases in the world. • Home to Barry M. Goldwater Range: Gila Bend AFAF supports operations on the Barry M. Goldwater Range, one of the premier air-to-ground training ranges in the United States. • Desert Training Environment: The challenging desert environment at Gila Bend provides realistic conditions for pilots and ground crews to hone their combat skills. • Historical Origin: Gila Bend AFAF dates back to World War II, originally serving as a training site for bomber crews and later evolving to support tactical fighter training. • Emergency Response: The 58th CSS is responsible for fire protection, medical response, and emergency management on the installation, ensuring safety for all personnel. • Small But Vital: Despite its relatively small size, the 58th CSS plays an outsized role in maintaining the operations of a facility that supports thousands of sorties each year. • Environmental Stewardship: The squadron manages the preservation of environmentally sensitive areas, protecting local wildlife while maintaining operational readiness. • Community Involvement: Members of the 58th CSS often engage with the local Arizona community through outreach programs, demonstrating their commitment both to national defense and civic responsibility.