📍 Location & Geography
Hanscom Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force base located primarily within the town of Bedford, Massachusetts, with portions extending into the adjoining towns of Concord and Lincoln. It is in Middlesex County, with the zip code of 01731.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Hanscom AFB are approximately 42.4703° N latitude and 71.2890° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Hanscom AFB is situated in the northeastern region of the United States, specifically in the New England area. The base covers an area of 846 acres, with a large part of it being developed for military and residential use.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the latest census, Hanscom AFB has a population of approximately 1,875 residents. The base is home to military personnel, civilian employees, and their families. The demographic makeup is diverse, with people from various ethnic backgrounds residing in the base.
🏛️ History
Hanscom AFB was established in 1941 as Bedford Army Air Field during World War II. It was renamed in 1949 in honor of Laurence G. Hanscom, a Massachusetts-born pilot and aviation enthusiast. Over the years, Hanscom AFB has served as a key installation for the Air Force, hosting various units and commands.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Despite being a military base, Hanscom AFB is surrounded by natural beauty. It is located near the Minute Man National Historical Park, which preserves significant sites from the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War. The base itself is home to various species of flora and fauna.
🏫 Education
Education for children living on Hanscom AFB is provided by the Lincoln Public Schools and Bedford Public Schools. The base also hosts the Hanscom Primary and Middle Schools. For higher education, residents have access to numerous colleges and universities in the greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Hanscom AFB is accessible by road and air. The base is served by Interstate 95 and Route 2A. The base also has its own airfield, Hanscom Field, which is one of the busiest general aviation airports in New England. Public transportation options include bus services connecting the base to nearby towns and cities.
📜 Trivia & Events
Hanscom AFB hosts several events throughout the year, including air shows, community gatherings, and military ceremonies. The base is also known for its significant role in the development of the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) system during the Cold War, which was an early computerized air defense system.