Dyess Air Force Base Secures $90.8 Million For New Facilities

I often tell folks that I live in Abilene today because of Dyess Air Force Base. My dad was stationed here not once, but twice, and that’s why our family became proud Abilenians. I grew up as what’s called an Air Force brat. Some might see that as a rough label, but I wear it as a badge of honor. Military kids grow up with discipline, resilience, and pride.

We lived on bases across the country and even in Europe. Torrejón Air Base in Spain and Holloman Air Force Base at White Sands, New Mexico, were among my favorites. But Dyess always felt special. It was one of the coolest bases we called home.

From Abilene Army Airfield to Dyess AFB

The history of Dyess goes back to 1942, when construction began on what was then the Abilene Army Airfield, a World War II training center. After a short closure, the base was reactivated in 1955 as Abilene Air Force Base. The 341st Bombardment Wing brought the mighty B-47 Stratojet, putting Abilene on the map as a home for America’s bomber fleet.

Since then, Dyess has grown into one of the most important bases in the world, housing the legendary B-1B Lancer and now preparing for the arrival of the B-21 Raider, the next generation of stealth bombers.

Record Funding Secured for Dyess

This summer, House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington announced that Dyess will receive a record $90.8 million in defense funding through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). That’s triple last year’s historic total.

The investment includes:

• $78 million for a B-21 Mission Planning Facility
• $12.8 million for utilities and site improvements

This funding ensures Dyess is ready for the B-21 Raider, keeping the base at the tip of America’s air arsenal. For those of us who grew up around Dyess, it’s more than just military dollars, it’s an investment in the future of our community and the families who serve.

Why It Matters to Abilene

Dyess isn’t just a base on the edge of town. It’s part of the lifeblood of Abilene. It provides jobs, boosts our economy, and brings families, like mine, who fall in love with this community and stay here long after their service ends.

When I hear about record-setting investments in Dyess, I feel proud. Proud of my father’s service, proud of my childhood as an Air Force brat, and proud to call Abilene home. Dyess represents strength, family, and community, and its future has never looked brighter.