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EXPLORING TERCEIRA GUIDE (Click here)
LAJES FIELD, AZORES, PORTUGAL
Lajes Field is a Portuguese Air Base, located on the island of Terceira. The nine inhabited islands of the Azores archipelago are located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 2,300 miles east of Washington, D.C. and about 900 miles west of Lisbon, Portugal. Together, they form an autonomous region of Portugal. Lajes Field, known as the "Crossroads of the Atlantic," provides an important mid Atlantic link for US and allied forces to Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The volcanic origin of all the islands is revealed by their volcanic cones and craters. Pico, a volcano that stands 7758 feet high on the island of the same name, has the highest altitude in the Azores. The nine islands of the archipelago are divided in three Groups: The Eastern Group of São Miguel and Santa Maria; the Central Group of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, and the Western Group of Flores and Corvo.
HISTORY
The first Americans arrived in 1944 to construct a runway. Over the years, Lajes has provided support to US and NATO operations, Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM. In March 2003, The Atlantic Summit, hosted by the Portuguese government brought many distinguished visitors to the island, including U.S. President, George W. Bush.
MAJOR COMMAND
United States Air Force Europe (USAFE).
POPULATION SERVED
There are more than 1,700 DoD personnel and their families as well as Portuguese military personnel.
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PORTUGUESE HOLIDAYS |
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New Years Day Day of the Worker Espirito Santo Monday Day of Portugal Praia da Vitoria DayAssumption Day Restoration of Independence Immaculate Conception Christmas Day |
1 Jan 16 Feb 2 Apr 25 Apr 1 May 24 May 10 Jun 11 Aug 15 Aug 1 Nov 1 Dec 8 Dec 25 Dec |
LOCAL CURRENCY
The medium of exchange on Lajes Field is the US dollar. Local currency is the European Euro. The rate changes each business day and is affected by the US dollar’s strength in foreign money markets. Euros are available for purchase at the exchange, Top of the Rock Club, Outdoor Recreation (ATM) and banks located in the Portuguese terminal (713).
COMMERCIAL TAXI
Commercial taxi service is plentiful and relatively inexpensive. A typical ride into the port of Praia costs approximately $7 and a trip to Angra is about $18. Ask the driver in advance to negotiate the price. Call 295-512654, 295-512092, or 295-512151 for commercial taxi pick-up. The dispatcher will give you the license plate number of the taxi that will come for you.
LOCAL DINING
There are many restaurants in the Lajes vicinity which feature excellent Portuguese food at reasonable prices. Most restaurants have an English menu. You may also wish to ask any of our permanent party personnel for recommendations of local eateries. It’s recommended that you don’t eat butter or cheese that is not in sealed individual packets.
UNIFORMS OFF BASE
Uniforms are not to be worn off base or outside of vehicles in accordance with our host nation agreement. This includes even quick convenience stops. The only exception to this rule is to pay a phone bill, water bill, electric bill, rent and those attending official functions at the golf course.
WEATHER
High winds in excess of 50 knots (57.6 mph) are common. Wind warnings are announced through AFN radio and television programming. When wind warnings are in effect, stay inside as much as possible, keep curtains drawn, and be alert for flying objects when you must venture out of doors. Be especially careful when opening and closing doors to buildings and cars.
ONCE YOU'RE SETTLED
There's a lot to enjoy when you are here and we don't want you to miss a thing. Find out what's happening:
1. Pick up a copy of Accents, the Force Support Squadron monthly publication.
2. Check www.lajesfss.com frequently for the latest info
3. Lajes Weekly Bulletin (sent directly to your .mil account)
4. Read the base newspaper, Crossroads
5. Listen to AFN Island 96
6. Read the posters/flyers in the facilities
Make the most of your time at Lajes through the 65th Force Support Squadron Activities. Log on to www.lajesfss.com for specific info.
Airman & Family Readiness Center
Arts and Crafts
Atlantic Island Kennels
Auto Hobby Shop
Bowling Center Chace Fitness Center Child Development Center
Civilian Personnel Office
Community Activity Center
Education Center
Human Resources Office
Laundry
Library
Lodging
Marketing
Military Personnel Section
Oceanview Island Grill
Outdoor Recreation
Sports Zone
Subway
Top of the Rock Club
Veterinary Clinic
Youth Programs
THE FOUR MISSION PILLARS
• Fight Today's Fight
• Take care of our Airmen and their families
• Enhance our relations w/ our Host Nation
• Prepare for future challenges
