Learn About Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina
Pope Army Airfield Overview
City History
Pope Army Airfield is a military airfield located in North Carolina, near Fayetteville. It was originally established in 1919 as Pope Field, named after First Lieutenant Harley Halbert Pope, who was killed in a crash at the airfield. The airfield has a long history of serving as a vital military installation, particularly during World War II and the Vietnam War.
Interesting Facts
- Pope Army Airfield is home to the 43rd Air Mobility Operations Group, which provides air transportation for the President of the United States and other high-ranking officials.
- The airfield has a long-standing partnership with nearby Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the world.
- Pope Army Airfield has been used as a filming location for several Hollywood movies, including "Iron Man 3" and "The Green Berets".
Interesting People
- General Hugh Shelton, a former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was once stationed at Pope Army Airfield.
- Major General James H. Doolittle, a famous World War II pilot known for leading the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, also served at the airfield.
Top Attractions in Pope Army Airfield
- The Airborne and Special Operations Museum, located nearby in Fayetteville, showcases the history of airborne and special operations forces.
- The 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum, also located nearby, honors the history and service of the 82nd Airborne Division.
Top Attractions Nearby
- Fort Bragg, located adjacent to Pope Army Airfield, offers a variety of historical and recreational attractions, including the 82nd Airborne Division Museum and the Smith Lake Recreation Area.
- The Cape Fear Botanical Garden in Fayetteville features over 80 acres of gardens and nature trails.
Population History
Pope Army Airfield is primarily a military installation and does not have a permanent civilian population. However, it is home to a significant number of military personnel and their families.
Geography
Pope Army Airfield is located in central North Carolina, approximately 12 miles northwest of Fayetteville. The airfield is situated on approximately 18,000 acres of land and is surrounded by the lush greenery of the North Carolina countryside.
Economy
The economy of Pope Army Airfield is closely tied to the military presence in the area. The airfield provides employment opportunities for military personnel and civilian contractors who support the operations of the base.
Culture
The culture of Pope Army Airfield is deeply rooted in military tradition and service. The airfield is home to a diverse group of military personnel from various branches of the armed forces, all united in their commitment to serving their country.
Notable Landmarks
- The Pope Army Airfield Control Tower, a prominent landmark on the airfield, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- The 43rd Air Mobility Operations Group headquarters, a modern facility that coordinates air transportation for high-ranking officials, is another notable landmark on the base.