Trees burn, and when the majority of a base is nestled in a vast training area covered with trees, the threat of fire is constant. At Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., the Jackson Guard keeps trees and tradition alive by: guarding Eglin's wild lands

Airman, Sept, 2004 by Mark Kinkade

Population: Eglin: Factor in active duty, reserves, civilians and family members, and the Eglin population nears 36,000 people. Nearby Fort Walton Beach: 170,000 people.

History: In 1931, the Army Air Corps was looking for a bombing and gunnery range. They found a sparsely populated forest near Valparaiso. A local businessman donated the land to entice the military to set up operations in the area. On Aug. 4, 1937, the base was redesignated Eglin Field in honor of Lt. Col. Frederick I. Eglin, U.S. Air Corps, killed on Jan. 1, 1937, in an aircraft accident. In 1940, the U.S. Forestry Service ceded to the War Department the Choctawhatchee National Forest, consisting of 384,000 acres. In 1941, the Air Corps Proving Ground was activated and Eglin became the site for Army Air Forces fighter pilot gunnery training, as well as a major aircraft-testing center.

Climate: An average annual temperature of 67.2 degrees provides just enough of a change to mark the passing of four mild seasons. High temperatures in the summer range from 80 to 91 degrees, and winter highs range from 50 to 75. Rainfall averages nearly 70 inches per year. Hurricane season is from June 1 to Nov. 30 and the base and community have detailed evacuation plans in case of a weather emergency.

Cost of Living: This location is considered a premiere vacation spot. Rent for an apartment will cost from $350 to $750 monthly; rent for a house will cost from $750 to $1,400 a month.

Recreation: If it happens on water, you can do it at Eglin. From boating to jet skiing, scuba diving to swimming, and fishing--water is a major draw for vacationers and locals alike. Also, the densely wooded undeveloped areas are prime camping, hiking, biking and hunting locations.

More Info: www.eglin.af.mil; www.afcrossroads.com; www.emeraldcoast.com.