Moody Air Force Base, located 10 miles northeast of Valdosta, was founded as a result of concerned Valdosta and Lowndes County citizens seeking to assist the expanding defense program in the early stages of World War II. Research suggested developing an air corps training base, and in 1941 the War Department was granted exclusive use of more than 9,000 acres of land by the Agricultural Department. The base is named in memory of Maj. George Putnam Moody, an Air Force pioneer who was on the inspection board for the AT-10 transitional trainers that were eventually sent to the base.

Home to the 23rd Wing, the mission of the more than 5,500 military personnel is to organize, train, and employ combat-ready pararescuemen, A-10C, HH-60, HC-130 and support forces to execute worldwide close air support, force protection and combat search and rescue operations, national security and the global war on terrorism. The base is also home to the Air Force's new 93rd Air Ground Operations Wing.

The men and women of Moody have historically enjoyed respect and support from area citizens, perhaps evidenced most strongly by the intense lobbying to save the base when it appeared on a closure list. Not only was the base spared, but the base gained approximately 600 positions. Moody also employs nearly 700 civilians.

Personnel at Moody return the hospitality to the metropolitan Valdosta area. One of the community favorites is the “Scare Force” Haunted House during Halloween. Area high school and college students interested in a military career are also welcomed to “shadow” a Moody member in a particular career field for a day.

Moody personnel (and all active duty and retired military personnel) enjoy exclusive access to nearby Grassy Pond, approximately 500 acres used for recreational activities such as boating, picnicking, camping, fishing and hiking surrounded by a pristine wilderness setting.

Visit our websites at www.moody.af.mil and www.moodyfss.com.