S aw The dedicated men and women
at Shaw Air Force Base
E
stablished in 1941, Shaw Air Force Base is a longtime friend and protector of Sumter. Named after Lt. Ervin D. Shaw, a Sumter native killed during World War I, many residents still refer to Shaw AFB as “Shaw Field.” It is a 3,500-acre installation that also has a 12,400-acre bombing range at Poinsett Range located 11 miles away in Sumter County. Should our freedoms be threatened, the brave men and women of Shaw AFB are among the first to answer the call of duty. They were among the many service people who rose to the president’s call following the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001, and again for the fight against Saddam Hussein’s regime in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The veracity of Shaw’s aircraft and personnel has instilled admiration for American valor in the hearts of many around the world. Aside from their combat deployments, Shaw
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Guide to Sumter 2021
also provides support services to troops all over the world, including the production of weather reports for those stationed in the Middle East. Now, more than ever, their efforts are appreciated. In terms of Sumter’s population, Shaw AFB has had an incredible influence. Many military members opt to stay in the Gamecock City, and many others return for retirement. There are as many as 18,000 military veterans living in the area, and many of them extend their efforts beyond simple residency by taking active roles within the community doing service projects and volunteering. Shaw also plays a vital role in the local economy, directly and indirectly accounting for nearly $1 billion of the money circulated around Sumter. That’s nearly 33% of the area’s total economy. About 9,000 of the personnel at the base are active-duty roles, while an additional 1,500 civilians also report to
