Welcome to Peterson Air Force Base and the 21st Space Wing, the Air Force's only organization providing missile warning and space control to unified commanders and combat forces worldwide.

The Wing's mission is to conduct flawless missile warning and space control operations, provide unsurpassed installation support and protection, while developing and deploying Warrior Airmen to defend America and our Allies.

Our vision statement is "America's Space Superiority Wing—Globally Postured to Ensure Space Dominance."

As the Air Force's most widespread and diverse wing, Team Pete members can be found in 44 units at 27 locations in 5 countries.

In addition to our operational missions, the 21st also serves as host unit of Peterson AFB for four major military headquarters—North American Aerospace Defense Command, U.S. Northern Command, Air Force Space Command and SMDC/Army Strategic Command as well as the 302nd Airlift Wing (Reserve) and many tenant units from other major commands.

Peterson AFB is located adjacent to and east of Colorado Springs off U.S. Highway 24. Colorado Springs is the second largest city in the state, and has a population of approximately 500,000 people. Colorado Springs also hosts the United States Air Force Academy to the north, Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station to the west, Fort Carson Army Post to the south, and Schriever AFB to the east.

When it comes to magnificent scenery and natural beauty, Colorado Springs has it all. It's the home of America's fabulous mountains, the Rockies, nestled at the foot of the famous 14,110-foot Pike's Peak. These "purple mountain majesties" inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful" a century ago.

The city's altitude is 6,035 feet, and some newcomers experience slight fatigue at first. New arrivals should allow time for their bodies to adjust to the elevation. Peterson is obviously in the Rocky Mountain region. Summers can be hot and winters cold in Colorado, but the dry climate is generally quite agreeable, whatever the season.

The Colorado Springs Airport, which shares runways with Peterson AFB, serves 10 airlines with more than 100 flights daily, offering non-stop service to 15 U.S. cities and easy connections to almost any city in the world.

Our unique combination of geography and climate make Peterson a true national asset. But the real strength of Peterson AFB is the men and women who work here, their energy, commitment, and professionalism.

Once again, welcome to Team Pete and best wishes from all of us for a rewarding and enjoyable stay.

John W. Raymond
Colonel, USAF Commander