Introduction to Virginia's Army Bases
The state of Virginia is home to a significant number of Army bases, each playing a crucial role in the country’s defense and military operations. From training facilities to logistics and transportation hubs, these bases are essential to the United States Army’s overall strategy. In this article, we will explore seven of the most notable Army bases in Virginia, highlighting their unique features, functions, and contributions to the nation’s military capabilities.
1. Fort Belvoir
Located in Fairfax County, Virginia, Fort Belvoir is a United States Army base that serves as the headquarters for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). With a history dating back to 1917, the base has undergone significant transformations over the years, evolving into a critical logistics and supply chain hub. Today, Fort Belvoir is a major employer in the region, supporting over 20,000 military and civilian personnel.
📍 Note: Fort Belvoir is also home to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).
2. Fort Eustis
Named after General Abraham Eustis, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War, Fort Eustis is a United States Army base located in Newport News, Virginia. Established in 1918, the base has a rich history of supporting military transportation and logistics operations. Fort Eustis is home to the U.S. Army Transportation Center and School, which provides training for soldiers in transportation-related specialties.
3. Fort Lee
Situated in Prince George County, Virginia, Fort Lee is a United States Army base that serves as a major logistics and supply chain hub. With a history dating back to 1917, the base is named after General Robert E. Lee, a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War. Fort Lee is home to the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM) and the U.S. Army Quartermaster School.
🚚 Note: Fort Lee is also home to the U.S. Army Ordnance School and the U.S. Army Transportation School.
4. Fort Myer
Located in Arlington County, Virginia, Fort Myer is a United States Army base that serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW). Established in 1861, the base has a rich history of supporting military operations in the nation’s capital. Fort Myer is home to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”.
5. Fort A.P. Hill
Named after General A.P. Hill, a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War, Fort A.P. Hill is a United States Army base located in Caroline County, Virginia. Established in 1941, the base serves as a training facility for soldiers, providing opportunities for live-fire exercises and maneuver training.
6. Joint Base Langley-Eustis
Located in Hampton, Virginia, Joint Base Langley-Eustis is a United States military base that serves as a joint installation for the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army. Established in 2010, the base is home to the U.S. Army’s 7th Transportation Brigade and the U.S. Air Force’s 1st Fighter Wing.
7. Quantico Marine Corps Base
While not exclusively an Army base, Quantico Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Virginia, is home to the U.S. Army’s Criminal Investigation Laboratory and the U.S. Army’s Military Police School. Established in 1917, the base serves as a major training facility for military police and criminal investigators.
| Army Base | Location | Established | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Belvoir | Fairfax County, VA | 1917 | Logistics and supply chain hub |
| Fort Eustis | Newport News, VA | 1918 | Transportation and logistics training |
| Fort Lee | Prince George County, VA | 1917 | Logistics and supply chain hub |
| Fort Myer | Arlington County, VA | 1861 | Military district headquarters |
| Fort A.P. Hill | Caroline County, VA | 1941 | Training facility |
| Joint Base Langley-Eustis | Hampton, VA | 2010 | Joint military installation |
| Quantico Marine Corps Base | Quantico, VA | 1917 | Training facility |
The seven Army bases in Virginia mapped out in this article demonstrate the state’s significant contribution to the country’s military capabilities. From logistics and supply chain hubs to training facilities, these bases play critical roles in supporting military operations and ensuring national security.
What is the largest Army base in Virginia?
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Fort Belvoir is the largest Army base in Virginia, covering over 8,600 acres and supporting over 20,000 military and civilian personnel.
What is the purpose of Fort Eustis?
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Fort Eustis is a major transportation and logistics hub, providing training for soldiers in transportation-related specialties and supporting military transportation operations.
Which Army base in Virginia is home to the U.S. Army’s Criminal Investigation Laboratory?
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Quantico Marine Corps Base is home to the U.S. Army’s Criminal Investigation Laboratory and the U.S. Army’s Military Police School.
