Fairchild AFB, WA

Fairchild Air Force Base (AFB) is located near Spokane, Washington, in the northwestern United States. Its history dates back to the early 1940s when the United States Army Air Corp (predecessor to the United States Air Force) established a training base called Spokane Air Depot. The primary function of this base was to provide maintenance and repair support for aircraft flying over the Pacific Ocean during World War II.

After World War II, the focus of the base shifted to support the newly formed Strategic Air Command (SAC). In 1947, the base was renamed Spokane Air Force Base, and it became one of SAC's primary bomber bases. The famous B-29 Superfortress, best known for dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, was stationed at Spokane AFB.

In the early 1950s, the advent of jet-powered bombers led to the deployment of the Boeing B-47 Stratojet at Spokane AFB. This marked the beginning of the base's transition into a nuclear-capable bomber facility. During the Cold War, the Strategic Air Command continuously upgraded the base to accommodate newer and more advanced aircraft.

In 1956, the base was renamed Fairchild Air Force Base in honor of General Muir S. Fairchild, a former Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Fairchild AFB played a crucial role in the nation's defense strategy, housing various bomber and missile units.

However, the most notable event associated with Fairchild AFB's history occurred on June 20, 1994, when a tragic incident took place known as the Fairchild AFB shooting. A mentally unstable airman, armed with an assault rifle, killed five people and injured twenty-two others before being stopped by responding security forces. This event had a profound impact on the base and the surrounding community, leading to improvements in the military's approach to mental health care.

Despite this tragedy, Fairchild AFB continued its operations as a key Air Mobility Command base, focusing on aerial refueling and providing global airlift services. Today, it is home to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing and the 141st Air Refueling Wing, which support global operations and training exercises.

Fairchild AFB's strategic location, modern facilities, and dedicated personnel contribute significantly to the defense capabilities of the United States. It has played a vital role in the nation's military history and continues to be a crucial hub for airpower.

The West Spokane County Fairgrounds

Located near Fairchild AFB, this fairground hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Spokane County Interstate Fair and horse shows.

Riverside State Park

Situated near the base, Riverside State Park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Visitors can also explore the Spokane River and enjoy scenic views.

Downtown Spokane

Just a short drive away from Fairchild AFB, downtown Spokane offers numerous attractions, including Riverfront Park, the Spokane Falls SkyRide, the Bing Crosby Theater, and various shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Manito Park

Located in Spokane, Manito Park is a beautiful urban park featuring well-maintained gardens, walking trails, a conservatory, and a Japanese garden. It is a great place for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.

Northern Quest Resort & Casino

This resort and casino, situated nearby Fairchild AFB, offers various entertainment options, including gaming, live performances, dining, and spa treatments.

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

Known as the MAC, this museum in Spokane features exhibits on regional history, Native American culture, and fine arts. It is a great place to delve into the local heritage and arts scene.

Spokane Valley Mall

If you enjoy shopping, the Spokane Valley Mall is nearby and offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Cat Tales Zoological Park

Located on the outskirts of Spokane, Cat Tales is a wildlife park where visitors can observe and learn about various species of big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards.

These are just a few of the attractions you can explore in and around Fairchild AFB, WA.

Fairchild Air Force Base is located in Spokane County, Washington, in the northwestern United States. The climate of Fairchild AFB falls under the category of a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons.

Summers at Fairchild AFB are typically warm and sunny. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 °C), although occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s (32-37 °C). The summers are generally dry with low humidity levels, making it a comfortable time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Autumn in Fairchild AFB brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage. September and October offer mild temperatures with average highs in the 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (15-22 °C). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually drop, and November can be relatively chilly, with high temperatures in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-10 °C).

Winters at Fairchild AFB can be cold and snowy. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with average high temperatures in the 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (-1-5 °C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of around 45 inches (114 cm). The base occasionally experiences snowstorms that can result in heavy snow accumulation and temporary closures.

Spring brings a gradual warming to Fairchild AFB. March and April can have cool temperatures, with average highs in the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-10 °C). As spring progresses into May, temperatures rise into the 60s Fahrenheit (15-20 °C) and occasional rainfall occurs.

Overall, the climate of Fairchild AFB offers a mix of warm summers, cool autumns, cold winters with snow, and mild springs. It is important to note that these are general characteristics of the climate, and specific weather conditions can vary from year to year.

Fairchild Air Force Base is located west of Spokane, Washington, and is situated in a relatively rural area. As such, there are limited residential options directly on the base. However, there are several neighborhoods nearby that offer housing options for military personnel and their families. Here are some of the neighborhoods near Fairchild AFB:

Airway Heights

Located just north of Fairchild AFB, Airway Heights is a growing community with a mix of suburban and rural areas. It is the closest town to the base and offers various housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses. The area has a small-town feel with shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational activities.

Spokane

Being the second-largest city in Washington, Spokane offers a wide range of neighborhoods for Fairchild AFB personnel. From vibrant downtown loft apartments to family-friendly suburban communities, there are plenty of options for housing. Spokane provides diverse amenities such as shopping malls, parks, schools, and a thriving cultural scene.

Medical Lake

Located about 8 miles southwest of Fairchild AFB, Medical Lake is a small town known for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Housing options here mostly consist of single-family homes, often with larger lots and a more rural feel. Medical Lake is home to a beautiful state park and lake, providing residents with hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities.

Cheney

Situated about 10 miles east of Fairchild AFB, Cheney is a college town dominated by Eastern Washington University. The community provides a mix of housing options, including apartments and single-family homes. Cheney has a range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and a public golf course.

Other Surrounding Areas

Beyond the closer neighborhoods, there are other towns and communities in the region that offer housing options for families stationed at Fairchild AFB. Examples include Four Lakes, Davenport, Reardan, and Medical Lake's surrounding rural areas.

When seeking housing near Fairchild AFB, it's important to consider factors such as commute times, schools, amenities, and the desired community atmosphere. Military personnel can often access resources and advice through the base's housing office to help in their search for suitable accommodations.