Langley AFB

• Oldest Active Air Force Base: Langley Air Force Base, established in 1916, is one of the oldest active air bases in the United States. • Named After an Aviation Pioneer: The base is named in honor of Samuel Pierpont Langley, an American aviation pioneer and former Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. • Birthplace of Tactical Air Power: Langley AFB is considered the "Birthplace of American Air Power," playing a key role in the development of tactical air operations. • Home of Air Combat Command: In 1992, Langley became the headquarters for Air Combat Command (ACC), a major command responsible for organizing, training, and equipping combat-ready forces. • World War I Origins: The base was established during World War I to train pilots and support the new Army Air Service, marking its early importance in US military aviation. • F-22 Raptor: Langley is home to the first operational F-22 Raptor fighter wing, the 1st Fighter Wing, which began flying the aircraft in 2005. • NASA Connection: The neighboring NASA Langley Research Center, founded in 1917, shares a close relationship with the base, contributing to advancements in aeronautics and space exploration. • Strategic Coastal Location: Situated on the Virginia Peninsula, Langley’s location has been vital for defense and training, with access to both land and water for exercises. • Joint Base Langley-Eustis: In 2010, Langley AFB merged with nearby Fort Eustis to form Joint Base Langley-Eustis, enhancing inter-service cooperation between the Air Force and Army. • Presidential Visits: Due to its importance, Langley AFB has hosted several presidential visits and major defense-related events over its long history.