Introduction

The 186th Air Refueling Wing is an Air National Guard wing based at Key Field Air National Guard Base in Meridian, Mississippi. This page gives practical facts about location, visitor access, on-base services, medical care, and more. Use the contact details in the overview to confirm current rules before you go.

Base Overview

Official name Key Field Air National Guard Base
Military branch Mississippi Air National Guard, United States Air Force
Base status Active
Street address 6225 M Street, Meridian, MS 39307-7112
Main phone number 601-484-9000
Official website 186th Air Refueling Wing official website

Location and Directions

Key Field Air National Guard Base is located at Key Field Municipal Airport, about 4 miles southwest of central Meridian, Mississippi. The airport complex sits near the intersection of Interstates 20 and 59, making the base easy to reach by car. The facility is within the Meridian city area at the airport site.

Visitor Information

Access is controlled. Official base tours are available for local civic organizations, schools, and youth groups by advance request. Tours are not offered on drill weekends, federal holidays, or during some exercises and can be canceled for mission reasons.

Tour groups are generally 10–40 people and should request visits at least 30 days ahead. Tours typically start at 9:00 a.m., last up to two hours, and require security processing; visitors 18 and older must show a valid ID. Requests and questions go to the 186th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs contacts listed on the base website.

Housing and Lodging

Official sources do not list on-base housing or temporary lodging details for Key Field ANG Base. Visitors and newcomers should plan to use Meridian-area hotels and contact the wing for current local recommendations.

Facilities and Services

The base supports mission functions including communications, supply, fuels, transportation, personnel, civil engineering, security forces, crash and fire rescue, environmental management, food service, contracting, and readiness.

Major units at the installation include the 153rd Air Refueling Squadron with KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, the 186th Maintenance Group, 186th Mission Support Group, 186th Medical Group, 186th Air Operations Group, and the 238th Contingency Response Squadron.

Schools and Childcare

Official sources do not list on-base schools or child development centers. Families should check the local public school district for assignments and contact the wing for available child care guidance.

Medical Services

The 186th Medical Group manages health services for assigned Air National Guard units and provides flight physicals for Army National Guard personnel. Public patient information and broader clinic services are not listed publicly; confirm eligibility and appointment rules with the base before seeking care.

Recreation and Amenities

Official sources do not list specific on-base recreation facilities such as a commissary, exchange, or child care centers for Key Field ANG Base. Visitors should check the wing website or contact the base for current amenities and family services.

Things to Know

  • The 186th Air Refueling Wing is an active Mississippi Air National Guard wing based at Key Field ANG Base.
  • The wing’s mission includes global refueling and agile combat support for state and national needs.
  • The base sits within Key Field Municipal Airport, so airport and military security affect access and operations.
  • Public Affairs handles base-tour requests; it is not a general operator service for other base offices.
  • Access rules and operating hours can change; confirm current requirements before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public tour the base? Yes. Tours are available for approved civic groups, schools, and youth groups by advance request.

How do I request a tour? Submit a request at least 30 days ahead through the wing Public Affairs office as described on the base website.

What ID do visitors need? Visitors age 18 and older must present a valid driver's license or other accepted ID for security processing.

Is there on-base lodging? Official sources do not list on-base housing or temporary lodging; plan to use local hotels and check with the wing for options.

Who provides medical care on base? The 186th Medical Group provides health services for assigned ANG personnel and offers flight physicals for Army National Guard members.