About this Unit
Keesler Air Force Base, home to the Air Training Command (ATC), was established in 1941 in Biloxi, Mississippi, as a vital training center for the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. The base quickly became renowned for its technical training programs, specializing in aircraft maintenance, electronics, and radar operations, which were crucial to Allied air superiority. Throughout the Cold War and into the modern era, Keesler AFB's ATC continued to evolve, adapting to new technologies and expanding its curriculum to include cyber and communications training. Today, Keesler remains a cornerstone of Air Force technical education, shaping generations of airmen for operational excellence.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: Keesler Air Force Base (AFB) was established in 1941 in Biloxi, Mississippi, as a response to the growing need for technical training during World War II. It quickly became one of the largest technical training bases in the U.S. Army Air Forces.
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Named After a Hero: The base was named in honor of 2nd Lt. Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr., a Mississippi native and World War I aerial observer who was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery.
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Air Training Command (ATC) Hub: Keesler AFB has long been a vital part of the Air Training Command (now Air Education and Training Command, AETC), specializing in electronics, communications, and radar training for the Air Force.
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Radar and Electronics Training: During and after WWII, Keesler became renowned as the principal center for radar and electronics maintenance training, crucial for the Cold War and modern Air Force operations.
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Integration and Civil Rights: In the late 1940s, Keesler played a significant role in military integration, with African-American airmen training alongside white airmen prior to the official desegregation of the armed forces in 1948.
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Hurricane Katrina’s Impact: In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused extensive damage to Keesler AFB, but the base played a critical role in local disaster response and quickly resumed training operations thanks to determined recovery efforts.
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Medical Training Legacy: Keesler is home to the 81st Medical Group and Keesler Medical Center, which has trained thousands of Air Force medics, nurses, and doctors, and pioneered medical procedures used worldwide.
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Women in the Military: Keesler was a major training site for Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) and Women in the Air Force (WAF) during and after WWII, supporting the increased integration of women into military roles.
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The “Gateway to the Air Force”: For decades, Keesler has been known as the "Gateway to the Air Force" for its crucial role in training new airmen in technical specialties, impacting generations of Air Force personnel.
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Continuing Cyber and Tech Training: Today, Keesler AFB continues its legacy by providing state-of-the-art training in cyber operations, air traffic control, and advanced electronics, ensuring the Air Force remains technologically advanced.
