About MacDill AFB
MacDill Air Force Base, located in Tampa, Florida, serves as a critical hub for the United States Air Force. Known for its strategic importance, the base is home to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), supporting global missions and national security objectives.
It also hosts the 6th Air Refueling Wing, providing essential air mobility. Situated near the Gulf Coast, MacDill offers excellent amenities, strong community ties, and a range of family services, making it a unique and vital installation in the military network.
In this Article
MacDill AFB Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at MacDill Air Force Base or planning a move to the Tampa area, this veterans guide offers everything you need to know. From housing options on base and in nearby South Tampa and Brandon, to exploring the vibrant city of Tampa and local resources available to veterans, this guide is your comprehensive resource for all things related to MacDill AFB.
MacDill Air Force Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (813) 830-0011
- Housing Office: +1 (813) 830-0012
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (813) 830-0013
- Family Support Office: +1 (813) 830-0014
- Legal Office: +1 (813) 830-0015
Address: MacDill Air Force Base, 7101 Hangar Loop Dr, Tampa, FL 33621, United States
Mission
MacDill AFB supports global operations through its hosting of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM).
The 6th Air Refueling Wing provides aerial refueling to ensure the mobility of air forces worldwide. The base plays a pivotal role in national defense and global military operations.
History
- Established: 1939
- Historical Significance: Initially opened as Southeast Air Base, the facility played a key role in World War II. Later renamed after Colonel Leslie MacDill, the base transitioned into a crucial component of modern air mobility and command operations.
Key milestones include:
- Hosting CENTCOM and SOCOM headquarters.
- Providing vital refueling missions for operations worldwide.
Location
- City: Tampa, Florida
- Coordinates: 27.8429° N, 82.5213° W
- Website: MacDill AFB Official Website
- Phone: +1 (813) 828-1110
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
Address:
MacDill Air Force Base
7315 Bayshore Blvd,
Tampa, FL 33621
Driving Directions:
- From Tampa International Airport: Take I-275 S and exit onto US-92 W to Bayshore Blvd. Follow signs to MacDill AFB (approx. 30 minutes).
- From Downtown Tampa: Head south on Bayshore Blvd to the main entrance of MacDill AFB (approx. 15 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 12,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 8,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 15,000
- Total Population Served: Over 35,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: MacDill AFB offers on-base privatized housing managed by Harbor Bay at MacDill. Off-base housing is available in South Tampa, Brandon, and Riverview. Contact the Housing Office for assistance at +1 (813) 830-0012.
- Off-base housing includes rental homes and properties for sale in South Tampa, Riverview, and Brandon.
- Current median home prices in Tampa: $420,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: MacDill AFB is located near major highways, including Interstate 275 and the Selmon Expressway, providing easy access to downtown Tampa and surrounding areas. On-base shuttle services are available for personnel, but personal vehicles are recommended for off-base commuting.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care for base personnel is provided by the 6th Medical Group at MacDill AFB, offering primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (813) 830-0013 for more information.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options at MacDill AFB include the Dining Facility and several fast-food options. Off-base, Tampa offers a wide variety of dining experiences, ranging from local restaurants in Ybor City to upscale dining in South Tampa.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: MacDill AFB features several fitness centers offering cardio equipment, weights, group fitness classes, and sports facilities. The base also offers access to Tampa Bay for outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at MacDill AFB. Children of military personnel typically attend schools in the Hillsborough County School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in nearby Tampa neighborhoods, including South Tampa and Brandon. Higher education opportunities are available at University of South Florida and Hillsborough Community College.
- Child Development Center (CDC): MacDill AFB operates a Child Development Center, offering daycare services, preschool programs, and after-school care for military families. Contact the CDC for enrollment details.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: MacDill AFB is located along the beautiful Tampa Bay, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. The base also features parks, sports fields, and trails for hiking and running.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and Base Exchange for shopping needs. Off-base, Tampa offers a wide variety of shopping centers, including International Plaza and Bay Street and WestShore Plaza.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local veterans organizations, including VFW and American Legion posts, provide support and services for military personnel and veterans throughout the Tampa area.
- Family Support Office: Offers deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy services, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (813) 830-0014.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (813) 830-0015 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Established in 1939, MacDill AFB is home to the 6th Air Refueling Wing and provides support to U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command. The base plays a key role in air refueling operations and global military missions.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the primary mission of MacDill AFB? | MacDill hosts CENTCOM and SOCOM, focusing on global operations and national security, along with the 6th Air Refueling Wing for mobility missions. |
| What housing options are available? | MacDill offers on-base housing through privatized management and various off-base housing options in Tampa and nearby areas. |
| Are there schools near the base? | Yes, local schools in Tampa serve military families, and on-base resources include a child development center and youth programs. |
| What healthcare services are available? | MacDill provides a full-service medical clinic for active-duty personnel and dependents, along with emergency services at nearby Tampa hospitals. |
| Does the base have recreational amenities? | Yes, the base features golf courses, swimming pools, fitness centers, and access to Tampa Bay for water-based activities. |
| What support is available for families? | Services include a family support center, child care, spouse employment programs, and counseling services. |
| What events are held on base? | MacDill hosts air shows, open houses, and military appreciation events annually, drawing thousands of attendees. |
| Is MacDill open to civilians? | Access is restricted to authorized personnel, but public events like air shows are open to the general public with proper identification. |
| What aircraft operate at MacDill? | The base primarily supports KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refueling aircraft for global missions. |
| What is the weather like at MacDill AFB? | Tampa has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. |
