About Eglin AFB
Eglin Air Force Base, located near Valparaiso, Florida, is one of the largest Air Force bases in the United States. Covering over 724 square miles, Eglin serves as the headquarters for the Air Force Materiel Command’s Air Armament Center and the 46th Test Wing, providing research, development, testing, and evaluation for air-delivered weapons.
The base is also home to several other tenant commands, including the 33rd Fighter Wing and 53rd Wing. With its strategic location on the Gulf Coast, Eglin is a crucial facility for training and weapons development.
In this Article
Local Eglin AFB Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Eglin Air Force Base or planning a move to the Florida Panhandle, this comprehensive guide offers everything you need. From housing options on base and in nearby Destin and Fort Walton Beach, to local attractions, financial resources, and military discounts, this guide covers all the essentials for veterans and their families at Eglin AFB.
Eglin Air Force Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (850) 882-0011
- Housing Office: +1 (850) 882-0012
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (850) 882-0013
- Family Support Office: +1 (850) 882-0014
- Legal Office: +1 (850) 882-0015
Address: Eglin Air Force Base, 501 W Van Matre Ave, Eglin AFB, FL 32542, United States
Mission
Eglin Air Force Base serves as a pivotal installation for the U.S. Air Force, focusing on research, development, testing, and evaluation of advanced weapons systems.
It is home to the Air Force Armament Directorate and multiple tenant organizations, contributing to cutting-edge defense capabilities and ensuring military readiness.
History
- Established: 1935
- Historical Significance: Initially known as the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Base, it was renamed in honor of Lt. Col. Frederick Eglin, an aviation pioneer.
- Key Milestones:
- Development of advanced weapons systems during World War II.
- Expansion into research and testing, becoming a leading innovation hub for the U.S. Air Force.
Location and Directions
Location: Eglin Air Force Base is in the Florida Panhandle, near Fort Walton Beach.
Coordinates: 30.4837° N, 86.5254° W
Website: Eglin AFB Official Website
Phone: +1 (850) 882-1110
Hours of Operation:
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Driving Directions:
- From Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport: Take FL-85 N to Eglin Blvd (approx. 25 minutes).
- From Interstate 10: Take exit 56 toward Crestview/Eglin AFB and follow FL-85 S (approx. 30 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 8,500
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 15,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 22,000
- Total Population Served: Over 45,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Eglin AFB offers privatized on-base housing managed by Corvias. Off-base housing options are available in nearby areas like Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Niceville. Contact the Housing Office for assistance at +1 (850) 882-0012.
- Off-base housing options include rental homes and properties for sale in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Niceville.
- Current median home prices in Destin: $620,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Eglin AFB is located near U.S. Highway 98 and State Road 85, offering easy access to surrounding cities such as Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Niceville. On-base shuttle services are available, but personal vehicles are recommended for off-base commuting.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care for base personnel is provided by the 96th Medical Group at Eglin AFB, offering primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (850) 882-0013 for more information.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options include the Breeze Dining Facility and various fast-food outlets. Off-base, Destin and Fort Walton Beach offer a wide range of dining experiences, from seafood restaurants to casual eateries.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Eglin AFB features several fitness centers offering cardio equipment, weights, group fitness classes, and sports fields. The base also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including access to the Gulf of Mexico for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at Eglin AFB. Children of military personnel typically attend schools in the Okaloosa County School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in nearby Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Destin. Higher education opportunities are available at Northwest Florida State College and University of West Florida.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Eglin AFB operates a Child Development Center (CDC), offering daycare services, preschool programs, and after-school care for military families. Contact the CDC for more information on enrollment.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Eglin AFB is situated near the beautiful Emerald Coast, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. The base also features parks, sports fields, and outdoor fitness areas for running, biking, and family activities.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and Base Exchange for shopping needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the mission of Eglin AFB? | Eglin AFB focuses on research, development, testing, and evaluation of advanced weapons systems for the U.S. Air Force. |
| How can I contact the Housing Office? | You can reach the Housing Office at +1 (850) 882-4533 for assistance with on-base and off-base housing. |
| Are there on-base schools? | Eglin AFB has partnerships with local school districts, and there are schools nearby for dependents. |
| What healthcare services are available? | The base offers comprehensive medical services through its healthcare facilities. Contact +1 (850) 883-8600 for details. |
| How can I access recreational facilities? | The base provides fitness centers, outdoor activities, and community programs. Call +1 (850) 882-9308 for more information. |
| Is there employment support for military spouses? | Yes, the Family Support Office provides resources to assist spouses with local job opportunities. |
| What are the main units stationed at Eglin AFB? | Eglin AFB hosts the Air Force Armament Directorate and other key tenant organizations. |
| Are there housing options for families? | Both on-base and off-base housing options are available, catering to the needs of military families. |
| What child care services are available? | The Child Development Center provides programs for children of active-duty personnel. Call +1 (850) 882-2994 for more information. |
| How do I schedule a visit to Eglin AFB? | Contact the Visitor Center at +1 (850) 882-1110 for information on base access and scheduling visits. |
