Ellsworth Air Force Base

Ellsworth Air Force Base is a military installation in Box Elder, South Dakota, operated by Air Force Global Strike Command. The facility includes multiple runways, maintenance hangars, housing areas, and administrative buildings spread across open prairie land east of the Black Hills.

Built during World War II to train bomber crews, the base initially supported B-17 aircraft before switching to other models in later decades. The B-1B Lancer became the primary aircraft here in 1987, marking a shift toward supersonic strategic operations.

The base received its current name in 1953 to honor Brigadier General Richard Ellsworth, who died in an aircraft accident near Newfoundland.

Access is restricted to authorized personnel, and visitors need clearance before entering through the main gate. The base remains an active military site, so photography and public access to operational areas are limited.

A memorial chapel on the base honors service members lost in duty, featuring stained glass windows and a quiet interior open to active personnel and families. The annual open house allows the public to walk near aircraft and meet pilots, offering a rare glimpse inside daily operations.

Location: Pennington County

Location: Meade County

Location: Jackson County

Inception: 1942

Official opening: 1942

Part of: Air Combat Command

Website: http://ellsworth.af.mil

GPS coordinates: 44.14504,-103.10357

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:43