Grissom Air Force Base (AFB) is located in the small town of Grissom, Nebraska. Originally part of the Strategic Air Command, it is now part of Air Education and Training Command's 19th Air Force. Grissom AFB is home to the 434th Air Refueling Wing, which provides refueling operations and air mobility, while also providing the crew training necessary to maintain their aircrews' combat readiness.
Grissom AFB was originally constructed as a SAC base in 1954, and activated in 1956 as the 4196th Strategic Wing, under the command of an activated reserve unit from U.S. Army up until 1962. In 1958, SAC redesignated the base as the 434th Strategic Wing with its three squadrons of KC-135A Stratotankers operating from the airfield. A second Strategic Air Command Bomber Wing with two squadrons of B-52G Stratofortresses activated on Grissom AFB in 1964. The Base was renamed Grissom Air Force Base in October 1968, in memory of the late astronaut Virgil 'Gus' Grissom.
Grissom's importance during the Cold War drew it into the spotlight in the 70s; with Grissom having the highest alert rate of all 21 SAC
Interesting Facts About Grissom AFB City
1. Grissom Air Force Base (AFB) was first established in 1942 as Naval Air Station (NAS) Bunker Hill.
2. The base was officially activated as Grissom AFB in 1968 and is currently home to the 434th Air Refueling Wing.
3. The base is located just outside of the city of Peru, Indiana in Miami County, Indiana.
4. Grissom AFB is the second-largest employer in Miami County, behind only Peru State College.
5. The base is host to several aviation heritage sites, including the Grissom Air Museum and the “Fifth Freedom” statue.
6. The base is home to a number of aircraft, the largest being the KC-135R Stratotanker.
7. The base is home to the “Stars and Stripes” ceremony, which is performed every week throughout the summer.
8. Grissom AFB was the first U.S. military installation to get its own zip code.
What is Grissom AFB known & Famous for
Grissom Air Force Base in Peru, Indiana is a former United States Air Force base that is now an American business and industrial park known as Grissom Aeroplex. The base was originally named Bunker Hill Air Force Base until it was renamed in 1968 to honor Virgil I. "Gus" Grissom, a native of Mitchell, Indiana, who was the second American in space and a USAF Colonel. Grissom Air Force Base is famous for being Indiana’s largest employer and for playing an integral role in the American defense strategy during the Cold War. The base was home to numerous military operations, including training, aerospace ground equipment maintenance and testing, air refueling and rescue and recovery operations.
What Is It Like To Visit In Grissom AFB City?
Grissom Air Force Base (AFB) is located in Peru, Indiana, and is home to the 434th Air Refueling Wing, Air Force Reserve Command, and the 122nd Fighter Wing. The base offers plenty of activities and attractions that are great for both visitors and locals. If you’re in the area, the Grissom Air Museum is a must-see. With a variety of interactive displays, artifacts, and exhibits, you’ll get a glimpse at the rich history and traditions of the Air Force. Additionally, visitors can go hiking and take-in the picturesque countryside in the nearby Hoosier National Forest. Grissom AFB also plays host to a variety of air shows and other special events throughout the year. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for fun activities for your visit, Grissom AFB has something for everyone.
