MacDill

MacDill Air Force Base is a United States Air Force installation in Hillsborough County, Florida, located near the city of Tampa. It serves as a major joint military hub in the Tampa Bay area, hosting the headquarters of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM). The installation supports air mobility, security, and inter-service operations, and it hosts a mix of active-duty personnel, civilian employees, and tenants from multiple branches.

MacDill began in 1939 as Tampa Army Air Field, established to support World War II training and coastal defense efforts. It was renamed MacDill Field in honor of Brig. Gen. Graham A. MacDill and evolved into an active Air Force installation after the war. In the late 20th century, the base’s mission shifted toward joint commands, with CENTCOM and SOCOM establishing headquarters on the installation in the 1990s, reflecting a broader realignment of U.S. military commands.

Geographically, the base sits in south-central Hillsborough County, near Tampa, and functions as a key strategic node for U.S. defense planning and regional security operations. MacDill also plays a role in the local economy and community, hosting educational, cultural, and outreach activities in addition to its defense missions. The base maintains facilities for air mobility and support operations, and it continues to be a focal point for joint training and international cooperation among allies.