For a community surrounded by soybeans and corn, Warrensburg is connected to a lot that is high-tech.

The most significant example is Whiteman Air Force Base. The only home of the B2 Stealth bomber, the base is on the cutting edge of the nation's high-tech military revolution. All support and maintenance for these bat-winged bombers is at Whiteman.

The scope of this base is staggering. The B2 program is conducted by the Air Force's 509th Bomb Wing, which also flies T-38 trainers from Whiteman as part of their training and preparation. The 442nd Fighter Wing is based here with their A-10 "Warthog" ground-attack aircraft. The Missouri Army National Guard utilizes Whiteman for two helicopter programs. There is even a small contingent of U.S. Navy personnel.

These strategic and multi-purpose roles make for a massive facility with a massive impact. With more than 6,300 civilian and military employees, Whiteman generates an annual payroll of more than $231 million. Whiteman's total, regional impact is estimated to exceed $440 mil. each year.

Having a front-line base in its backyard brings other impact for Warrensburg and Johnson County. A large percentage of the 6,300 military and civilian personnel live in the Warrensburg area. Many Whiteman families are active in civic events and service organizations.

An estimated 3,500 military retirees have made Warrensburg and Johnson County their home. Frequently still in their middle years, these retirees are an important resource for area organizations as well as employers.

Although it's by far the largest, Whiteman is not the only airport in the area. The Max B. Swisher Skyhaven Airport is operated by Central Missouri State Univ. Located west of Warrens-burg on Highway 50, this airport has two runways of 4,206 and 2,800 feet, allowing it to serve the university's aviation education program as well as residents and businesses of Warrensburg.

Future developments at Max B. Swisher are potentially dramatic. The university is currently planning improvements to allow for business jet and all-weather landings by increasing runway length and instrument approach equipment. Ultimately, the facility is being considered for its potential as a new industrial park site.

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graphic content without permission is prohibited. | DestinationWarrensburg is a supplement to Ingram's Magazine