Welcome
Updated On: 10/12/2012 12:35:21 AM
Whiteman Air Force Base is located in central Missouri, an area many think of as the Ozarks, a state made famous by its seemingly endless streams. Others regard Missouri as merely an extension of St. Louis or Kansas City. Actually, it is both and neither. Covering more than 44 million acres, Missouri is larger than all of New England. Whiteman AFB, somewhat removed from dense population, can still yield any product or service imaginable within an hour’s drive.
Numerous smaller communities surround the base including Knob Noster and Warrensburg within two and 12 miles respectively. Sedalia is 20 miles to the east. These communities’ affiliations are both historical and meaningful. Other surrounding communities include: California, Clinton, Cole Camp, Concordia, Higginsville, Holden, Independence, Jefferson City, Kansas City, La Monte, Lexington, Lincoln, Marshall, Versailles, Warsaw and Windsor. Residents and merchants from these communities welcome military members and their families with open arms while providing great support through the Base Community Council.
Getting to Whiteman AFB
Driving
Whiteman is near Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 50. Those approaching from the east on Interstate 70 should take the Sedalia exit onto U.S. Highway 65 south. In Sedalia, Highway 65 intersects with Highway 50. Turn west on Highway 50 and drive approximately 20 miles to the Whiteman AFB exit. Turn left onto State Highway 23 south and drive about two miles to the Spirit Gate on the left.
For those approaching from the west on Interstate 70, take the Warrensburg exit onto State Highway 13 south. As you approach Warrensburg, Highway 50 passes under Highway 13. Turn east onto Highway 50, at the end of the Highway 13 overpass, and drive to State Highway 23 south. Travel two miles south to reach the Spirit Gate on the left.
North and south approaches to Whiteman intersect with Interstate 70 or Highway 50, respectively.
Arriving by Air
If flying to your new assignment, the Kansas City International Airport is a logical arrival choice with Whiteman 90 miles southeast of the airport. If driving from the airport, take Interstate 435 east toward St. Louis. As you approach Interstate 70, stay in the left lane and take Interstate 70 heading east. The trip takes about 90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Because there is no base transportation available from the airport, it’s wise to work out your complete travel plan with your sponsor in advance. If stuck at the airport, call the Whiteman operator at (660) 687-1110 and ask to be connected with your unit’s first sergeant for help.
If arriving in a privately owned vehicle, record mileage as it is reimbursable on your travel voucher as an authorized rental car or public transportation costs.
Mission
The mission statement of the 509th Bomb Wing is: Skilled and proud Airmen providing full spectrum, expeditionary, B-2 global strike combat support capabilities to geographic commanders and the Commander, USSTRATCOM, while supporting Team Whiteman. World class Airmen executing with pride, precision and perfection which ultimately leads to peace.
Primary Weapon Systems: B-2 advanced technology bomber. The 509th Bomb Wing is charged with America’s premier global reach and global power team by developing a B-2 combat force capable of delivering rapid, decisive and survivable air power anytime and anywhere. The aircraft represents a dramatic advancement in technology, and achievement of a major milestone in the U.S. bomber modernization program. It brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses.
Population Served
Along with four groups within the 509th Bomb Wing—Support, Operations, Maintenance and Medical—Whiteman is proud to serve as host to a number of associated units. These include: the Air Force Reserves’ 442nd Fighter Wing, the Missouri National Guard’s 1-135th Aviation Battalion, and the Naval Reserve Unit-Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare Unit 114 (MIUWU 114).
When Department of Defense civilians and contract personnel are factored in, substantial growth has occurred.
Whiteman estimated population:
- Active Duty 3,600
- Family Members 5,300
- Retirees 3,600
- Civilian Employees 2,000
- Reserve and Guard 1,600
Sponsorship
Upon notice of an assignment to Whiteman, newcomers are encouraged to request a sponsor in writing. Even though you may be a seasoned mover, having a sponsor can help reduce moving-related stress as well as help to nurture a professional relationship before you even arrive. If you are within 60 to 90 days of arrival and have not heard from your sponsor, please contact the Airman and family readiness center for assistance. Call DSN 975-7132 or commercial (660) 687-7132.
Your sponsor should meet you upon arrival, either at billeting or the airport. It is your responsibility to ensure he or she knows your arrival specifics.
History
Whiteman’s heritage dates back to 1942. U.S. Army Air Corps officials selected the current site to be the home of Sedalia Army Air Field.
Following the end of the war, the airfield remained in service as an operational location for Army Air Force C-46 and C-47 transports. In December 1947, the base was inactivated. However, in August 1951, the Strategic Air Command selected the base to be a site of one of its new bombardment wings, with both bombers and tankers assigned. In October 1952, SAC activated the 340th Bombardment Wing.
In October 1955, members of the wing saw the base name change to Whiteman AFB, in honor of 2nd Lt. George A. Whiteman. Whiteman was one of the first American Airmen killed in combat during World War II, when his P-40 fighter, the "Lucky Me," was shot down.
When Whiteman entered the 1960s, its mission shifted from aircraft to the Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile. In June 1961, officials selected the base to become the command’s fourth Minuteman missile wing, the 351st Strategic Missile Wing.
In the late 1980s, the 351st fielded the first female Minuteman missile crew, the first male and female Minuteman crew, and the first squadron commander to pull alert in the Minuteman system.
On Jan. 5, 1987, Congressman Ike Skelton revealed that the first deployment of the B-2 Advanced Technology Bomber would be at Whiteman. Beginning in 1988, a massive construction wave that created new buildings designed for B-2 operations, maintenance and support activities swept over the base.
On Sept. 30, 1990, the 509th Bomb Wing moved its headquarters to Whiteman albeit in an unmanned and non-operational state. With the end of the Cold War, two new organizations rose, one of which was Air Combat Command, the 509th’s newer, higher headquarters.
Then, on Dec. 17, 1993, the event that Whiteman had long awaited finally arrived. On that day, at approximately 2 p.m., a dark jet bomber swooped from the sky and landed on the Whiteman runway. Amid much fanfare, the first operational B-2, The Spirit of Missouri, had arrived. Less than a week later, on Dec. 22, 1993, Whiteman again made history as it generated the first B-2 sortie from the base.
On July 31, 1995, the 351st Missile Wing officially inactivated, ending its 33-year association with Whiteman AFB.
Throughout its history, the base has always been at the forefront of national defense. With the arrival of the first B-2 and the subsequent assignment of others, the future for the installation does, indeed, look bright for many years to come.
On Feb. 1, 2010, the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base became part of the newly created Air Force Global Strike Command.
Temporary Quarters
Temporary lodging is available through the Whiteman Inn. If there is no availability, newcomers will receive a referral to an off-base contract hotel. The closest is the Econo Lodge in Knob Noster, with others in Warrensburg and Sedalia. Note: Many rooms do not have cooking facilities. Do not make reservations without first consulting with the on-base lodging staff for a non-availability slip. Temporary rentals in the area are limited. Most would like for you to enter into a lease, but some landlords will negotiate. Do not rely on a "military clause" in a lease to get released early to move on base. The local area does not necessarily consider the "military clause" a reason to terminate a lease early. You must have orders to another destination. When in doubt, check with the housing office before signing anything.
Several motels are within commuting distance to Whiteman. The approximate range of rates is $40 to $60 per night.
Lodging Office
Make reservations as soon as possible.
325 Mitchell Ave.
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-1844
DSN 975-1844
The following mailing address can be used temporarily until you arrive and can establish a firm address: General Delivery, 740 Arnold Ave., Box 3000, Whiteman AFB, MO 65305. The Postal Service Center is located adjacent to the Airman & Family Readiness Center and Commissary on Arnold Ave.
Remember
Limited pet-friendly, temporary lodging facilities are available and should be booked well in advance. You must make arrangements for your pet at a local kennel if these facilities are not available.
Alpine Kennels
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Emergency treatment available: Call for appointment.
DD Highway
Warrensburg, MO 64093
Comm (660) 563-6077
B-B Veterinary
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Animals must already be vaccinated for kennel cough. Call for appointment.
420 E. Young Ave.
Warrensburg, MO 64093
Comm (660) 747-9161
Kimi’s Dog World
Hours of operation: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Wednesday and Sunday.
1099 N.E. Highway
Knob Noster, MO 65336
Comm (660) 563-5111
Wee-Bark Kennels
Hours of operation: Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
23625 Highway V
Sedalia, MO 65301
Comm (660) 827-7297
Relocation Assistance
The Airman & Family Readiness Center staff can answer many questions upon your arrival. You will in-process as well as receive local-area briefing from the staff. If you have any questions call commercial: (660) 687-7132 or DSN 975-7132 with advance questions.
Critical Installation Information
Cost of living here is comparable to many smaller American communities. Apartments and homes for rent or purchase are available within a 20-mile radius. You can refer to the Base Allowance for Housing chart and information about apartment rentals and local real estate on page 12.
If a medical emergency arises while en-route, contact the nearest American Red Cross or military installation. (It doesn’t need to be Air Force.) They will contact a Whiteman Air Force Aid representative.
Relocation Program
Need help settling in? The Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) is available to provide you with assistance and answer questions about the local area upon your arrival. We may not have all the answers, but we can find them through referrals to agencies best equipped to meet your needs.
Airman & Family Readiness Center
750 Arnold Ave.
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-7132
Fax (660) 687-1053
DSN 975-7132
In addition, Airman & Family Readiness Center on the base can provide information & referrals on services available in the local area to serve your special needs. Call (660) 687-7132.
School Liaison Officer
Interacts with local schools where military children attend.
509 Spirit Blvd., Suite 200
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-3701
DSN 975-3701
Welcome Center
Is the check-in point for newly arriving personnel, located at the Spirit Gate, off Highway 23.
101 Spirit Blvd.
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-2833
DSN 975-2833
In-Processing
Upon arrival, please check in with your Squadron and meet with your supervisor. Next, report to the Military Personnel Force Support Section at Building 509, Suite 111. Here you will officially sign into the base, take care of any leave web issues, and you will be assigned date and time for in-processing. Lastly, report to MPF Customer Service at Building 509, Suite 117. At the minimum, you will have your ID card coded for Whiteman, update your SGLI, and check your DEERS information.
Base in-processing is held every Tuesday at 8 a.m. and is located in the B-2 Conference Room of the Military Treatment Facility (basement level of the clinic). This briefing is mandatory for all members. You will receive briefings from the Force Support Section, Housing Office, Customer Support, and Medical and Dental Treatment Facilities. If you have hand carried your medical records, please bring with you to turn in during this briefing. In the afternoon, you will return to this same location to complete your Medical in-processing and briefings. If you have family members, please stop by the TRIWEST office to verify your enrollment or to change your enrollment to the proper TRIWEST servicing area.
Your travel vouchers are now completed online. The Finance office offers a short briefing everyday at 2 p.m. and is available to work with you one-on-one to assist you through this process. Please remember to bring in your receipts and at least 6 copies of your orders. Finance is located in Building 509, Suite 115. For specific questions please call (660) 687-2006.
Customer Service A1
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
509 Spirit Blvd., Suite 117
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-6535
Finance Office
Finance is at in-processing to assist with travel vouchers.
Finance Customer Service
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
509 Spirit Blvd., Suite 115A
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-4949/2006
Fax (660) 687-5392
DSN 975-2006
First Term Airman Center (FTAC)
All first-term Airmen are required to spend 8 duty days at the FTAC. Squadrons make all necessary arrangements. This commitment will allow time to complete all the necessary in-processing, including Right Start and medical review. This will also give newcomers the opportunity to interact with other new Airmen arriving at Whiteman. Your squadron will schedule all training after your FTAC processing. Questions? Call the number below or your unit.
511 Spirit Blvd.
Room Number 109
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-6391
DSN 975-6391
Customer Service A1
ID/CAC Card Processing
Issues all new and updated ID/CAC Cards.
509 Spirit Blvd., Suite 117
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Comm (660) 687-6426
Fax (660) 687-6424
DSN 975-6426
Postal Service Center
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed daily for lunch, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; and open Saturday, 9 to 11 a.m.
740 Arnold Ave., Suite 1B
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Use the below forwarding address until a local address is established:
General Delivery
740 Arnold Ave., Box 3000
Whiteman AFB, MO 65305
Right Start
Military Personnel staff will schedule you for Right Start. The program is designed to help newcomers complete all of their in-processing requirements within 15 work days after in-processing the base. If you elect to take the eight days permissive TDY for house hunting after you arrive, the 15 day rule begins immediately after you complete your permissive TDY. Right Start is held at Mission’s End (All ranks club). Show time is at 7:30 a.m. with briefings from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. Here you will receive all your mandatory newcomers briefings in a one stop forum.
Earn a free one (1) day pass—bring your spouse to Right Start. Spouses are highly encouraged to attend Right Start with you. They can plan on attending the morning session from 7:45 to 11 a.m. We understand that due to moving, child care arrangements and children in school your spouse may have to come late. That’s fine. We welcome them to show up at any time in the morning to join you.
Comm (660) 687-5777
DSN 975-5777
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