Pope Army Airfield, also known as Pope Field, is a United States Army airfield located in Cumberland County, North Carolina. The airfield is named after First Lieutenant Harley Halbert Pope, a pilot who was killed in a plane crash in 1919. It is situated near the city of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and is part of the Fort Bragg military installation.
History of Pope Army Airfield
Pope Army Airfield has a rich history dating back to 1919, when it was first established as a training airfield for the United States Army Air Corps. During World War II, the airfield played a significant role in the war effort, serving as a major training base for bomber and fighter pilots. In the 1950s and 1960s, the airfield was used as a transport hub for the Army, with aircraft such as the C-47 and C-123 providing airlift support for military operations around the world.
Modern-Day Operations
Today, Pope Army Airfield is a busy airfield that supports a wide range of military operations. The airfield is home to the 43rd Airlift Group, which operates a fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft. The 43rd Airlift Group provides airlift support for military operations around the world, including humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and combat operations. The airfield is also used by other military units, including the 82nd Airborne Division and the US Army Special Operations Command.
| Airfield Specifications | Values |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 217 feet (66 meters) above sea level |
| Runway Length | 7,500 feet (2,286 meters) |
| Runway Width | 150 feet (46 meters) |
| Aircraft Operations | Over 100,000 per year |
Key Points
- Pope Army Airfield is a US Army airfield located in Cumberland County, North Carolina.
- The airfield has a rich history dating back to 1919 and has played a significant role in several military conflicts.
- Today, the airfield is home to the 43rd Airlift Group and supports a wide range of military operations.
- The airfield's strategic location and modern facilities make it an ideal hub for airlift operations.
- The airfield is used by other military units, including the 82nd Airborne Division and the US Army Special Operations Command.
Military Units and Operations
Pope Army Airfield is home to several military units, including the 43rd Airlift Group, the 82nd Airborne Division, and the US Army Special Operations Command. The airfield supports a wide range of military operations, including airlift, airborne, and special operations. The 43rd Airlift Group operates a fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft, which provide airlift support for military operations around the world.
Airlift Operations
The 43rd Airlift Group is responsible for providing airlift support for military operations around the world. The group operates a fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft, which are capable of carrying large payloads over long distances. The C-130 is a versatile aircraft that can be used for a wide range of missions, including cargo transport, medical evacuation, and airborne operations.
The 43rd Airlift Group has a long history of providing airlift support for military operations. During the Gulf War, the group played a critical role in providing airlift support for coalition forces. In recent years, the group has provided airlift support for operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.
What is the primary mission of the 43rd Airlift Group?
+The primary mission of the 43rd Airlift Group is to provide airlift support for military operations around the world.
What type of aircraft does the 43rd Airlift Group operate?
+The 43rd Airlift Group operates a fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft.
What is the role of Pope Army Airfield in supporting military operations?
+Pope Army Airfield plays a critical role in supporting military operations by providing a strategic location for airlift operations and serving as a hub for military units.
In conclusion, Pope Army Airfield is a critical component of the US military’s global operations. The airfield’s strategic location, modern facilities, and experienced personnel make it an ideal hub for airlift operations. The 43rd Airlift Group and other military units that operate from the airfield play a vital role in supporting military operations around the world. As the US military continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges, Pope Army Airfield will remain a key player in supporting its global operations.
