5 Fort Lewis Commanders

Introduction to Fort Lewis Commanders

Fort Lewis, now known as Joint Base Lewis-McChord, has a rich history dating back to 1917. It has been a significant military base in the United States, serving as a training facility for various military units. Over the years, the base has had several commanders who have played crucial roles in shaping its operations and ensuring the readiness of its troops. In this article, we will delve into the lives and careers of five notable Fort Lewis commanders.

Commander 1: Major General Kenyon A. Joyce

Major General Kenyon A. Joyce was one of the earliest commanders of Fort Lewis. He took command of the base in 1921 and served for two years. During his tenure, Joyce focused on improving the base’s infrastructure and training facilities. He also played a key role in establishing the base’s first artillery range. Joyce’s leadership and vision helped lay the foundation for Fort Lewis’s future growth and development.

Commander 2: Lieutenant General Lesley J. McNair

Lieutenant General Lesley J. McNair was another notable commander of Fort Lewis. He took command of the base in 1940, just before the United States’ entry into World War II. McNair was a highly decorated officer who had served in both World War I and the Mexican Revolution. During his time at Fort Lewis, McNair oversaw the training of thousands of soldiers who would go on to fight in World War II. He was known for his emphasis on realistic training and his commitment to preparing soldiers for the challenges of modern warfare.

Commander 3: Major General Charles H. Corlett

Major General Charles H. Corlett was a commander of Fort Lewis during the 1950s. He took command of the base in 1953 and served for three years. Corlett was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, and he brought a wealth of experience to his role as commander. During his tenure, Corlett focused on modernizing the base’s training facilities and improving the living conditions of the soldiers stationed there. He also played a key role in establishing the base’s first guided missile range.

Commander 4: Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell IV

Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell IV was a commander of Fort Lewis during the 2000s. He took command of the base in 2007 and served for two years. Caldwell was a highly decorated officer who had served in both the Gulf War and the Iraq War. During his time at Fort Lewis, Caldwell oversaw the training of thousands of soldiers who would go on to fight in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was known for his emphasis on counterinsurgency training and his commitment to preparing soldiers for the challenges of modern warfare.

Commander 5: Lieutenant General Stephen J. Townsend

Lieutenant General Stephen J. Townsend was a commander of Fort Lewis during the 2010s. He took command of the base in 2012 and served for two years. Townsend was a veteran of the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan, and he brought a wealth of experience to his role as commander. During his tenure, Townsend focused on improving the base’s training facilities and enhancing the readiness of its troops. He also played a key role in establishing the base’s first cyber warfare range.

📝 Note: The commanders mentioned above are just a few examples of the many notable leaders who have served at Fort Lewis. Each commander has played a unique role in shaping the base's operations and ensuring the readiness of its troops.

In summary, the commanders of Fort Lewis have played a crucial role in shaping the base’s operations and ensuring the readiness of its troops. From Major General Kenyon A. Joyce to Lieutenant General Stephen J. Townsend, each commander has brought their unique experience and vision to the role. Their leadership and commitment to excellence have helped establish Fort Lewis as a premier military training facility.