Webb Air Force Base

• Origins as Big Spring Army Air Field: Webb Air Force Base began in 1942 as Big Spring Army Air Field, primarily serving as a training site for bomber pilots during World War II. • Named After Lieutenant James L. Webb: In 1952, the base was renamed in honor of First Lieutenant James L. Webb, a Big Spring native and World War II combat pilot who was killed in action in 1949. • Pilot Training Hub: Webb AFB was a major pilot training center, particularly during the Korean War and Vietnam War eras, training thousands of pilots on aircraft such as the T-33 and T-38 Talon. • Home to the 3560th Pilot Training Wing: The 3560th Pilot Training Wing, later redesignated the 78th Flying Training Wing, was the primary unit responsible for training at Webb AFB. • International Training: Webb AFB hosted pilots from allied nations, including students from NATO and Latin American countries, as part of international training programs. • Cold War Role: The base played a significant role during the Cold War, ramping up flight training to meet the demands of increasing tensions and conflicts. • Specialized Training: In addition to basic pilot training, Webb AFB offered specialized courses for instructor pilots and instrument flight training. • Women in Aviation: Webb AFB became one of the first Air Force bases to include female students in its undergraduate pilot training programs in the 1970s. • Closure: The base was selected for closure as part of defense cutbacks and officially ceased operations in 1977, with the last class of pilots graduating that year. • Current Status: After closure, the base was converted into the Big Spring Industrial Park and the Big Spring McMahon-Wrinkle Airport, preserving some of its historic buildings and legacy.