Shaw Air Force Base

“The 20th Fighter Wing is the only SEAD, or ‘Wild Weasel’, wing in the continental United States and the largest F-16 combat wing in the United States Air Force”, according to the Shaw overview on MilitaryINSTALLATIONS. The overview says the base was established in 1941 on the outskirts of Sumter, South Carolina, to train pilots for World War II, and was named after Sumter native Ervin Shaw. The base operator is 803-895-1110.

Driving on base

“To drive on base, you will need a current driver’s license, registration and insurance”, the Shaw MilitaryINSTALLATIONS page says. It warns of consequences for drunk driving and for talking on a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving, and it states that dash cameras are to be recording while on the installation.

In-processing

“Your sponsor will provide you with all the necessary information you’ll need for in-processing your squadron”, and you will be scheduled for the Right Start Weasel Welcome, the check-in page says; if your spouse is new to Shaw or to Air Force life, the page recommends bringing them to the briefing. The Welcome/Visitors Center at 1000 Shaw Drive, Building 9, is open 0600 to 1800 (803-895-5359). Temporary lodging is at the Carolina Pines Inn (803-895-3803).

Housing

“When you arrive at Shaw AFB, you must visit the MHO to receive counseling and guidance”, per the housing page. Military Housing Office, 369 Rhodes Avenue: 803-895-2427. Ask the MHO which company manages privatized family housing and how to apply.

Medical care: no emergency services on base

“Shaw Air Force Base has no emergency services. For on-base emergencies, call 911 for an ambulance”, the health care page says; the ambulance transports patients directly to the Prisma Health Toumey Medical Center emergency room at 129 N. Washington St., Sumter. “The 20 MDG is an outpatient clinic with 24-hour ambulance transport service.” Appointment line: 803-895-2273.

Schools

“Shaw Air Force base is surrounded by several county school districts”, including Sumter, Kershaw, Lee and Clarendon, per the education page. Sumter School District: 803-469-6900; Kershaw County School District: 803-432-8416. Families looking at schools in the Columbia area are supported through Fort Jackson’s School Liaison Program Manager.

Before you arrive

Have your license, registration and insurance ready, plan for the Right Start Weasel Welcome with your spouse, visit the MHO when you arrive, and know that on-base emergencies go by ambulance to Prisma Health Toumey.