Introduction to US Army Bases
The United States Army is one of the largest and most technologically advanced armies in the world. With a significant presence in various parts of the globe, the US Army operates numerous bases that serve as hubs for its military operations, training, and logistics. In this article, we will explore the top 10 largest US Army bases, focusing on their history, size, and significance.
1. White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
- Size: 2.2 million acres
- Established: 1945
- Primary function: Missile testing and training
White Sands Missile Range is the largest US Army base, covering an area of 2.2 million acres in southern New Mexico. Established in 1945, the base has played a crucial role in the development and testing of various missile systems, including the Apollo program. Today, it serves as a hub for missile testing, training, and research.
2. Fort Benning, Georgia
- Size: 182,000 acres
- Established: 1918
- Primary function: Infantry training
Fort Benning is one of the most famous US Army bases, known for its infantry training programs. Established in 1918, the base has a long history of producing skilled soldiers, including the legendary 101st Airborne Division. With a size of 182,000 acres, Fort Benning is a significant hub for US Army operations.
3. Fort Bragg, North Carolina
- Size: 161,000 acres
- Established: 1918
- Primary function: Special operations and airborne training
Fort Bragg is another iconic US Army base, known for its special operations and airborne training programs. Established in 1918, the base is home to the 82nd Airborne Division and the US Army Special Operations Command. With a size of 161,000 acres, Fort Bragg is a vital hub for US Army operations.
4. Fort Hood, Texas
- Size: 214,000 acres
- Established: 1942
- Primary function: Armor training
Fort Hood is one of the largest US Army bases in the world, covering an area of 214,000 acres in central Texas. Established in 1942, the base has served as a hub for armor training, with the 1st Cavalry Division and the 4th Infantry Division being two of its most notable units.
5. Fort Campbell, Kentucky
- Size: 106,000 acres
- Established: 1941
- Primary function: Airborne training
Fort Campbell is a significant US Army base, known for its airborne training programs. Established in 1941, the base is home to the 101st Airborne Division and has played a crucial role in various military operations, including World War II and the Vietnam War.
6. Fort Lewis, Washington
- Size: 87,000 acres
- Established: 1917
- Primary function: Infantry training
Fort Lewis is a major US Army base, located in the state of Washington. Established in 1917, the base has served as a hub for infantry training, with the 7th Infantry Division being one of its most notable units.
7. Fort Stewart, Georgia
- Size: 280,000 acres
- Established: 1940
- Primary function: Armor training
Fort Stewart is one of the largest US Army bases in the world, covering an area of 280,000 acres in southern Georgia. Established in 1940, the base has served as a hub for armor training, with the 3rd Infantry Division being one of its most notable units.
8. Fort Carson, Colorado
- Size: 137,000 acres
- Established: 1942
- Primary function: Armor training
Fort Carson is a significant US Army base, located in the state of Colorado. Established in 1942, the base has served as a hub for armor training, with the 4th Infantry Division being one of its most notable units.
9. Fort Polk, Louisiana
- Size: 198,000 acres
- Established: 1941
- Primary function: Infantry training
Fort Polk is a major US Army base, located in the state of Louisiana. Established in 1941, the base has served as a hub for infantry training, with the 4th Brigade Combat Team being one of its most notable units.
10. Fort Irwin, California
- Size: 642,000 acres
- Established: 1940
- Primary function: Training and testing
Fort Irwin is one of the largest US Army bases in the world, covering an area of 642,000 acres in the Mojave Desert, California. Established in 1940, the base has served as a hub for training and testing, with the National Training Center being one of its most notable units.
🚨 Note: The sizes of the bases may vary depending on the source, but the above list provides a general idea of the largest US Army bases.
In conclusion, the US Army operates numerous bases across the globe, each with its unique history, size, and significance. The top 10 largest US Army bases play a crucial role in the country’s military operations, training, and logistics. From missile testing to infantry training, these bases have contributed significantly to the US Army’s success.
What is the largest US Army base in the world?
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White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, is the largest US Army base, covering an area of 2.2 million acres.
What is the primary function of Fort Benning?
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Fort Benning is primarily used for infantry training.
Which US Army base is known for its special operations training?
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Fort Bragg is known for its special operations training programs.
