Sheppard AFB

Sheppard Air Force Base is one of the most diversified training installations in Air Education and Training Command.

The 82d Training Wing

The 82d TW conducts technical training for airmen and other service members across multiple career fields. Training programs are administered by the 82d, 782d, and 982d Training Groups, with installation support provided by the 82d Mission Support Group and the 82d Medical Group.

The 82 TW mission: “Train and develop mission-ready Airmen… worldwide.”

The 80th Flying Training Wing

The 80th FTW operates the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training program, the world’s only internationally manned and managed undergraduate pilot training program, where instructors and students from the United States and 14 NATO partner nations train together to develop the next generation of fighter pilots.

The 80 FTW mission: “We train the world’s best fighter pilots for the U.S. Air Force and NATO allies.”

Technical training at Sheppard AFB includes major academic areas such as aircraft maintenance, civil engineering, electronics, fuels and telecommunications.

For more information about Sheppard Air Force Base, visit https://www.sheppard.af.mil/Home/Welcome/.

1940 – Site Selection
Sheppard Field was first envisioned on Nov 29, 1940, when Major General Rush B. Lincoln, Commandant of the U.S. Army Air Corps Technical Schools, surveyed sites around Wichita Falls for a proposed training school.

1941 – Official Dedication
Sheppard Field began as a World War II Army Air Corps Training Center and was officially dedicated on Oct 17, 1941. The installation was named in honor of Senator Morris E. Sheppard, former chairman of the Senate Military Affairs Committee.

World War II
During World War II, the field reached a peak strength of 46,340 personnel while serving as a separation center for troops being discharged following the war.

1948 – Sheppard Air Force Base
On Aug 1, 1948, control of Sheppard Field was transferred to the Department of the Air Force to supplement Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, as a basic training center, and the installation was renamed Sheppard Air Force Base.

Since its founding during World War II, Sheppard AFB has continuously served as a major training installation, evolving from an Army Air Corps training center to one of the Air Force’s largest technical and international pilot training bases.

Over 70,000 airmen and personnel from other military branches are trained at Sheppard AFB each year. Over 20,000 permanent party, airmen in training, and support personnel are on Sheppard AFB during a normal duty day.

Sheppard AFB is in Wichita Falls, Texas, situated approximately 130 miles between Dallas and Oklahoma City. Wichita Falls is only 15 miles from the Oklahoma border and the Red River.

North Texas weather can change quickly, so be prepared for a wide range of conditions. Summers are very hot, often reaching over 100 degrees, while winters can bring freezing temperatures. Spring and fall are generally mild, but severe weather, including tornadoes, can occur in the spring. Tornado shelters are clearly marked on Sheppard AFB and throughout Wichita Falls.

Before traveling, talk with your sponsor about what clothing and gear to pack. It’s also recommended to keep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle year-round.

Directions from the Airport

If you arrive by commercial airline, you will land at Wichita Falls Municipal Airport, two miles from the main gate. Commercial taxi service is available from the airport to Sheppard. If your flight takes you to the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, there are several shuttle transportation services available. Check with your sponsor or you can also schedule an Uber.

Directions if Driving

All highways leading to the base are well marked. The main gate is on State Hwy 240, off I-44 (U.S. Hwys 287 and 281). The Missile Road exit off I-44 may also be used to arrive at the base. If driving from DFW Airport, Highway 287 North will take you all the way to Wichita Falls.

Directions by Bus

If arriving by bus, you will get off at the Greyhound: Bus Stop - Wichita Falls Travel Center located at 306 Scott Street. Sheppard is located less than 10 minutes from the bus terminal. Take Scott Street to TX-240. The main gate is on TX-240 (Burkburnett Rd and Sheppard Access).

On base transportation for official use is available through the base taxi system. They can be reached by calling 940-676-1843 or DSN 312-736-1843. Two shuttle bus routes cover the entire base for unofficial travel. Shuttle bus routes are posted at all bus stops.