December was a meaningful and impactful month for the Abilene Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Council (MAC) as members, partners, and community volunteers came together to support Dyess Air Force Base and the service members who call Abilene home. From holiday outreach to major milestones shaping the future of the installation, MAC remained actively engaged in strengthening the bond between the military and the Big Country community.
Supporting Dyess Airmen on the Flightline
The Abilene Freedom Foundation, alongside nearly two dozen community volunteers—including support from MAC members—recently welcomed approximately 700 Dyess maintenance professionals to a Pancake Breakfast on the flightline. These Airmen play a critical role in keeping the mighty B-1 bomber mission-ready, ensuring aircraft are prepared to operate in some of the most demanding environments in the world.
The breakfast served as a simple but meaningful way for the community to say “thank you” to the men and women who support the 7th Bomb Wing mission every day.
Dyess Groundbreaking Signals the Future
Local leaders joined Dyess Air Force Base leadership for a groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the start of a major new construction project on base. Led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District and Emerson Construction, the project includes a state-of-the-art Fuels Administration Lab and Refueling Truck Yard.
This new facility will support ongoing B-1 and C-130 operations and prepare Dyess for the future arrival of the B-21 Raider. Over the next decade, Dyess Air Force Base is expected to see nearly $1.6 billion in B-21-related military construction projects, reinforcing the base’s long-term strategic importance and economic impact on the region.
Operation Cookie Drop Spreads Holiday Cheer
Operation Cookie Drop, held on December 12, 2025, was another highlight of the month and a true example of community generosity. Thanks to MAC members and the Abilene community, more than 1,000 pounds of cookies were donated—along with a bonus addition of popcorn this year.
These holiday treats will be delivered by the Dyess Spouses Club to service members who are unable to travel home during the holiday season. Operation Cookie Drop is a heartfelt reminder to our Airmen and Airwomen that they are valued, appreciated, and remembered, especially during this special time of year.
B-21 Industry Day: Collaboration for What’s Ahead
The Vice President of the Abilene Military Affairs Council recently provided opening remarks at Dyess Air Force Base during the B-21 Industry Day event. The event brought together contractors, subcontractors, military personnel, and local business leaders to collaborate and share information about the future bed-down of the B-21 stealth bomber at Dyess.
Industry Day highlighted the scale of opportunity ahead, with approximately $1.6 billion in B-21-related military construction expected at Dyess over the next decade—creating long-term benefits for the base, the mission, and the surrounding community.
