LOCATION
Grissom Air Reserve Base is one of twelve Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) facilities in the US. Grissom is located near the towns of Peru and Kokomo, Indiana. The base is one of the few "stand alone" facilities; the 434th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) maintains and operates the entire base infrastructure. Grissom is located on 1,100 acres of land, nestled in the corn and soybean fields of north-central Indiana. There is also light industry in the area. Residents enjoy some of the lowest housing and utility costs in the midwest. It is is an easy drive to Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and Chicago.
HISTORY
Grissom ARB was named in the honor of Lt. Col. Virgil Grissom. The base was realigned as an Air Force Reserve facility in October 1994. Today, the base is home to the 434th Air Refueling Wing and is one of only five Air Reserve Bases in the nation.
MISSION
The mission of the 434th ARW is to provide mid-air refueling to long-range bombers, fighters, and cargo aircraft. The KC-135's provide support to all major commands of the Air Force as well as the Navy, Marine Corps and allied nations. The 434th ARW is one of the key refueling units in the Air Force Reserve. The 434th ARW regularly participates in exercises and front-line operations to support America's national interests.
POPULATION SERVED
The unit employs over 650 civilians who provide the continuity for the Reserve unit of more than 1300 reservists who train monthly at the base. Other branches of service are also represented on base: Navy, Marines and Army.
SPONSORSHIP
Everyone joining Grissom ARB is assigned a sponsor. The Military Personnel Flight contacts the newcomer's squadron. Each squadron identifies a sponsor for the new member. If you have not been notified who your sponsor is, contact your unit.
TEMPORARY QUARTERS
Base family housing is non-existent, although there is a lodging facility available (listed under billeting). Lodging may be reached at 765-689-8865 or DSN 388-2844.
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE
The Family Support Office can assist with relocation by providing area information. In addition, Newcomers receive a briefing during the UTA. We do not have a loan closet since it is a stand-alone reserve base. For information call Family Support at 765-688-4812 , 1-800-234-6911 or DSN 388-4812.
CRITICAL INSTALLATION INFORMATION
Grissom ARB plays an important role in both our nation's defense and in the Indiana economy. Grissom ARB is one of the largest employers in Miami County. Grissom ARB has no full time medical clinic or commissary/BX; however, there is a small branch BX located on the base. The base dining facility is open on main and alternate UTA's only in Building 470. There is an all ranks club which operates on UTA weekends. In addition, the club also offers lunches Monday-Friday from 1100-1300. It is located in Building 470. Public transportation on base is not available, unless prior arrangements for group transport are made with base transportation. To get anywhere in the local area an automobile is necessary. With the exception of base supply, all operations are within walking distance within the "cantonment area". This area is the fenced-in federal facility property, with security provided by DoD police. A modern physical fitness facility is available and provides a full range of weights, treadmills, nautilus equipment, racquetball, and basketball courts. Shower and locker facilities are available on a first come, first served basis. There are commercial eating establishments near the base. There is a gas station/convenience store and a Federal Credit Union located near the main gate.