Fort Leonard Wood Missouri County Info

Introduction to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri

Fort Leonard Wood is a United States Army installation located in the Missouri Ozarks. The fort is situated in Pulaski County, approximately 90 miles southwest of St. Louis. With a rich history dating back to 1940, Fort Leonard Wood has evolved into a premier training facility for the US Army, playing a critical role in the country’s defense. The fort is home to the US Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence, the US Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear School, and the US Army Engineer School.

History of Fort Leonard Wood

The construction of Fort Leonard Wood began in December 1940, and it was officially dedicated on January 15, 1941. The fort was named after General Leonard Wood, a renowned military officer who served as the Chief of Staff of the US Army from 1910 to 1914. During World War II, the fort served as a training facility for infantry and armored units. In the post-war period, the fort’s mission expanded to include engineer and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) training. Today, Fort Leonard Wood is one of the largest US Army training facilities, with over 50,000 soldiers and civilians passing through its gates every year.

Geography and Climate

Fort Leonard Wood is situated in the Missouri Ozarks, a region characterized by rolling hills, forests, and lakes. The fort’s terrain is diverse, with over 60,000 acres of land available for training. The climate in the area is humid continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 89°F (32°C), while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 24°F (-4°C). The region experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 45 inches (114 cm).

Economy and Demographics

The economy of the Fort Leonard Wood area is driven primarily by the military installation, with many businesses catering to the needs of soldiers and their families. The surrounding Pulaski County has a population of around 53,000 people, with a mix of urban and rural communities. The median household income in the county is around 43,000, and the median home value is around 120,000. The area has a diverse population, with a mix of military personnel, civilians, and retirees.

Points of Interest

Some popular points of interest in and around Fort Leonard Wood include: * The Fort Leonard Wood Museum, which showcases the history of the fort and the US Army * The US Army Engineer Museum, which features exhibits on the history of army engineering * The Mark Twain National Forest, which offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, camping, and fishing * The Lake of the Ozarks, a large man-made lake that offers boating, fishing, and other water sports * The city of Waynesville, which has a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues

Education and Healthcare

The Fort Leonard Wood area has a range of educational institutions, including public schools, private schools, and higher education institutions. The Waynesville R-VI School District serves the surrounding area, with several schools located on and off the fort. For higher education, the area is home to Drury University, a private liberal arts university with a campus in nearby Lebanon. Healthcare services are provided by the General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital, which offers medical, surgical, and emergency services to soldiers and their families.

Table of Demographic Information

Category	Pulaski County	Fort Leonard Wood
Population	53,000	20,000 (military and civilian)
Median Household Income	43,000</td> <td>50,000 (military and civilian)
Median Home Value	120,000</td> <td>150,000 (on-post housing)

📝 Note: The demographic information provided is approximate and based on publicly available data.

Fort Leonard Wood is a unique and fascinating place, with a rich history, diverse geography, and strong economy. The fort plays a critical role in the US Army’s training and operations, and its presence has a significant impact on the surrounding community. Whether you’re a soldier, a civilian, or just visiting, Fort Leonard Wood has something to offer.

The information provided in this article offers a comprehensive overview of Fort Leonard Wood, including its history, geography, economy, and demographics. By understanding the complexities of this military installation, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the important work being done at Fort Leonard Wood.

In terms of natural beauty, the area surrounding Fort Leonard Wood is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and lakes. The Mark Twain National Forest and the Lake of the Ozarks are just two examples of the many outdoor recreation opportunities available in the area. Whether you’re interested in hiking, camping, fishing, or boating, there’s something for everyone in the Fort Leonard Wood area.

The economy of the Fort Leonard Wood area is driven primarily by the military installation, with many businesses catering to the needs of soldiers and their families. The surrounding Pulaski County has a mix of urban and rural communities, with a diverse population and a range of educational and healthcare options.

In conclusion, Fort Leonard Wood is a vital part of the US Army’s training and operations, and its presence has a significant impact on the surrounding community. The fort’s rich history, diverse geography, and strong economy make it a unique and fascinating place, with something to offer for everyone.