Fort Polk Army Base Information

Introduction to Fort Polk Army Base

Fort Polk is a United States Army base located in Vernon Parish, Louisiana. The base is situated approximately 10 miles southeast of Leesville, Louisiana, and about 30 miles north of DeRidder, Louisiana. With a rich history dating back to 1941, Fort Polk has played a significant role in the country’s military operations, particularly during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The base is currently home to the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) and serves as a major training facility for the US Army.

History of Fort Polk Army Base

The history of Fort Polk dates back to 1941, when the US Army began constructing the base as a training facility for infantry and artillery units. The base was named after the Right Reverend Leonidas Polk, a Confederate general and Episcopal bishop. During World War II, Fort Polk played a crucial role in training soldiers for combat, with over 500,000 troops passing through the base. The base continued to serve as a major training facility during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. In the 1990s, the base underwent significant changes, including the establishment of the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) and the relocation of several units.

Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC)

The Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) is a premier training facility located at Fort Polk. The JRTC provides realistic and challenging training environments for units to prepare for combat operations. The center offers a range of training programs, including infantry, armor, and artillery training, as well as training for special operations forces. The JRTC is designed to simulate real-world combat scenarios, allowing units to test their skills and tactics in a safe and controlled environment. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including simulation systems and live-fire ranges.

Units and Tenant Organizations

Fort Polk is home to several units and tenant organizations, including: * 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division * 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division * Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) * US Army Garrison Fort Polk * Fort Polk Directorate of Emergency Services * Fort Polk Directorate of Public Works These units and organizations work together to support the base’s mission and provide a range of services to soldiers and their families.

Quality of Life

Fort Polk offers a range of amenities and services to support the quality of life for soldiers and their families. The base has several housing options, including on-base housing and off-base rentals. The base also has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. Additionally, the base has a variety of shopping and dining options, including a commissary, a post exchange, and several restaurants.

🏠 Note: The base also offers a range of services to support families, including childcare, youth programs, and family counseling.

Education and Employment

Fort Polk is located near several schools and universities, including Northwestern State University and Louisiana State University-Shreveport. The base also has a range of employment opportunities, both on and off the base. The base is a major employer in the region, with a range of jobs available in fields such as administration, maintenance, and healthcare.

Healthcare and Medical Services

Fort Polk has a range of healthcare and medical services available to soldiers and their families. The base has a hospital, Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital, which provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and outpatient care. The base also has several clinics and medical facilities, including a dental clinic and a pharmacy.

Environmental Concerns

Fort Polk has taken steps to address environmental concerns and reduce its impact on the environment. The base has implemented several initiatives to reduce energy consumption and waste, including the use of renewable energy sources and recycling programs. The base has also established several natural resource management programs to protect and preserve the natural resources on and around the base.

Environmental Initiative	Description
Renevable Energy	The base uses solar and wind power to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
Recycling Programs	The base has implemented several recycling programs to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Natural Resource Management	The base has established several programs to protect and preserve the natural resources on and around the base.

Base Amenities

Fort Polk has a range of amenities to support the needs of soldiers and their families. The base has several shopping and dining options, including a commissary, a post exchange, and several restaurants. The base also has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. Additionally, the base has several services to support families, including childcare, youth programs, and family counseling.

In summary, Fort Polk Army Base is a significant military installation with a rich history and a range of amenities and services to support the needs of soldiers and their families. The base is home to the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) and serves as a major training facility for the US Army. With its range of units and tenant organizations, Fort Polk plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s military operations.