Written by: VA Loan Network Editorial Team
Updated on October 19, 2025
About Dyess AFB
Dyess Air Force Base, located in Abilene, Texas, is home to the 7th Bomb Wing and the 317th Airlift Wing. The 7th Bomb Wing operates the B-1B Lancer and is a key component of the U.S. Air Force’s global strike capabilities.
The 317th Airlift Wing is responsible for C-130J Super Hercules airlift operations. Dyess AFB plays a critical role in both strategic airlift and long-range strike missions.
Dyess AFB Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Dyess Air Force Base or planning a move here, our comprehensive guide has everything you need. From housing options both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything Dyess AFB. Click the link below to dive into the full guide and make the most of your time at Dyess.
Dyess Air Force Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (325) 696-7000
- Housing Office: +1 (325) 696-7080
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (325) 696-7100
- Family Support Office: +1 (325) 696-7010
- Legal Office: +1 (325) 696-7150
Address: Dyess Air Force Base, 110 E Winters Dr, Abilene, TX 79607, United States
Mission
Dyess AFB plays a vital role in U.S. national security. It is the home of the 7th Bomb Wing (7 BW), which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber, a key component of America’s strategic air power. The base also hosts the 317th Airlift Wing, specializing in C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft, supporting global airlift missions.
History
- Established: December 1942 (as Tye Army Airfield)
- Renamed: Dyess Air Force Base in 1956, in honor of Lt. Col. William Edwin Dyess, a World War II hero.
- Historical Significance: Originally a training ground during World War II, Dyess AFB became a permanent installation after the war and evolved into a strategic hub for the U.S. Air Force’s bomber and airlift operations.
Key milestones include:
- Deployment of B-1B Lancers in the 1980s.
- Continuous modernization of its air fleet for 21st-century missions.
- Location: Abilene, Texas, USA
- Coordinates: 32.4200° N, 99.8358° W
- Website: Dyess AFB Official Website
- Phone: (325) 696-1110
- 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:
Dyess Air Force Base
320 Avenue B,
Dyess AFB, TX 79607 - Driving Directions:
- From Abilene Regional Airport: Take TX-36 N and Arnold Blvd to Dyess AFB (approx. 20 minutes).
- From Downtown Abilene: Head west on US-83 S and exit toward Arnold Blvd. Follow signs to Dyess AFB Main Gate (approx. 10 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 5,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 1,500
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 7,000
- Total Population Served: Over 13,500
Texas VA Loan Guide
View our complete VA loan guide for Texas. From local homebuyer assistance programs for Veterans to VA loan requirements and eligibility this guide has everything you need to know if you are considering getting a VA loan in Texas.
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Dyess AFB offers privatized on-base housing managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, as well as off-base housing options in Abilene. The Housing Office provides assistance to military families in finding the best housing options. Contact the Housing Office at +1 (325) 696-7080.
- Off-base housing in Abilene includes a variety of apartments and single-family homes.
- Current median home prices in Abilene: $180,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Dyess AFB provides limited shuttle services within the base for military personnel. The base is conveniently located near U.S. Highway 83, offering access to downtown Abilene and surrounding areas.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical services are provided by the 7th Medical Group, which offers primary care, dental, and emergency services for military personnel and their families. For medical appointments, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (325) 696-7100.
- Dining Facilities: The base features the Longhorn Dining Facility, in addition to fast-food outlets on base. Off-base, Abilene offers a wide range of dining options, from local eateries to national chains.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Dyess AFB offers several fitness facilities, including gyms, sports fields, and outdoor recreation areas. The base provides group fitness classes, wellness programs, and recreational activities for military families.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at Dyess AFB. Children of military personnel attend schools in the Abilene Independent School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in the Abilene Independent School District, which serves grades K-12. Higher education opportunities are available at Abilene Christian University, Hardin-Simmons University, and McMurry University.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Dyess AFB operates a Child Development Center (CDC), offering daycare, preschool, and after-school care for children of military families. Contact the CDC for enrollment information.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Dyess AFB offers outdoor recreational facilities such as sports fields, parks, and walking trails. Nearby Lake Fort Phantom Hill and Abilene State Park provide opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a Commissary and Exchange (BX) for grocery and retail shopping. Off-base, Abilene offers various shopping centers and restaurants, including the Mall of Abilene and a selection of local dining establishments.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local VFW and American Legion posts in Abilene provide support and resources for veterans and their families.
- Family Support Office: The Family Support Office provides deployment assistance, financial counseling, and family advocacy services. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (325) 696-7010.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office offers assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (325) 696-7150.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the mission of Dyess Air Force Base? | The mission of Dyess AFB is to provide global airpower through the B-1B Lancer bomber and to support airlift missions using the C-130J Super Hercules. Dyess AFB is home to the 7th Bomb Wing and 317th Airlift Wing. |
| Where is Dyess Air Force Base located? | Dyess AFB is located at 797 3rd St, Abilene, TX 79607, about 7 miles southwest of downtown Abilene, Texas. |
| What aircraft are stationed at Dyess AFB? | Dyess AFB is home to the B-1B Lancer bomber and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, used for bombing and airlift missions, respectively. |
| Can civilians visit Dyess AFB? | Civilians can visit Dyess AFB during special public events such as air shows or base tours. Access to the base requires sponsorship from a military member or authorized personnel. |
| What units are based at Dyess AFB? | Major units at Dyess AFB include the 7th Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer, and the 317th Airlift Wing, responsible for airlift missions using the C-130J Super Hercules. |
| Is housing available at Dyess AFB? | Yes, on-base housing is available through Balfour Beatty Communities, providing homes for active-duty personnel. Off-base housing is also available in nearby neighborhoods like Wylie and Buffalo Gap. |
| What services are available at Dyess AFB? | Dyess AFB offers a range of services including a commissary, Base Exchange (BX), medical clinic, fitness center, and childcare facilities for military personnel and their families. |
| What is the history of Dyess AFB? | Dyess AFB was established in 1956 and named after Lt. Col. William Edwin Dyess, a World War II hero. It has played a key role in Strategic Air Command and Air Combat Command operations. |
| What schools are available near Dyess AFB? | Dyess AFB is served by the Abilene Independent School District (AISD), and nearby higher education institutions include Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene Christian University, and McMurry University. |
| Are there recreational activities available at Dyess AFB? | Yes, Dyess AFB offers recreational activities such as a golf course, fitness programs, and access to outdoor adventures like hiking and fishing at nearby Abilene State Park. |
All Military Bases in Texas
- Camp Bullis Military Training Facility in Texas
- Camp Mabry – Headquarters of Texas Military Forces
- Corpus Christi Army Depot – Helicopter Repair Hub
- Dyess AFB – Home of the 7th Bomb Wing in Texas
- Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base – Texas Military Operations
- Exchange Service Headquarters Dallas – AAFES Command Center
- Fort Bliss – Key Training and Deployment Center in Texas
- Fort Cavazos – Largest Active-Duty Armored Post in Texas
- Sheppard AFB – Euro-NATO Pilot Training in Texas
- Fort Sam Houston – Premier Medical Training Base in Texas
- Fort Worth NAS JRB – Joint Reserve Base in Texas
- Goodfellow AFB – Intelligence Training Base in Texas
- Kingsville NAS – Premier Naval Jet Training Base in Texas
- Lackland AFB – Air Force Basic Training Center in Texas
- Laughlin AFB – Pilot Training Wing in Texas
- NAS Corpus Christi – Naval Aviation Training Base in Texas
- Randolph AFB – Air Education and Training Command in Texas
- Red River Army Depot – Military Vehicle Repair Facility
