Centcom McDill AF Base Florida

• Creation in 1983: United States Central Command (CENTCOM) was established on January 1, 1983, at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, as a direct response to U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East and Central Asia. • Area of Responsibility: CENTCOM’s area covers 21 countries stretching from Egypt in the west to Kazakhstan in the east, including critical regions like the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, and Iraq. • Operation Desert Storm: CENTCOM oversaw Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the massive U.S.-led coalition to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, one of the largest military operations since World War II. • 9/11 and the War on Terror: After the September 11, 2001 attacks, CENTCOM commanded Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom, playing a pivotal role in the U.S. military response. • Multinational Partnerships: CENTCOM regularly hosts officers from over 60 partner nations at its headquarters, fostering global military cooperation and joint planning. • Commanders of Note: Many CENTCOM commanders, such as General Norman Schwarzkopf, General Tommy Franks, and General David Petraeus, became prominent national figures. • Critical Infrastructure: MacDill AFB was chosen for its secure location and infrastructure, including direct access to Tampa Bay for rapid deployment and logistics. • Operation Inherent Resolve: Since 2014, CENTCOM has directed Operation Inherent Resolve, the ongoing campaign against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. • Home to SOCOM: MacDill AFB also hosts U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), making it a central hub for both conventional and special operations forces. • Historic Visits: CENTCOM at MacDill has hosted numerous high-profile visitors, including Presidents, Secretaries of Defense, and foreign dignitaries, reflecting its importance in U.S. and allied defense strategy.