Largest US Army Bases by Population and Land Area
The United States Army operates numerous bases across the country, each with its own unique characteristics, missions, and populations. From sprawling installations in the Southern states to strategic outposts in the West, these bases play a critical role in the country’s defense and national security. Here, we’ll explore the largest US Army bases by population and land area, highlighting their key features, missions, and importance to the US military.
Largest US Army Bases by Population
When it comes to population, some US Army bases are veritable cities, with tens of thousands of soldiers, civilians, and family members calling them home. Here are the top five largest US Army bases by population:
- Fort Bragg, North Carolina: With a population of over 43,000, Fort Bragg is the largest US Army base by population. Home to the 82nd Airborne Division, the base is a major hub for airborne and special operations forces.
- Fort Hood, Texas: Fort Hood is the second-largest US Army base by population, with over 36,000 people living and working on the installation. The base is home to the 1st Cavalry Division and the 3rd Armored Corps.
- Fort Benning, Georgia: With a population of over 28,000, Fort Benning is a major training base for the US Army. The base is home to the Maneuver Center of Excellence and the US Army Infantry School.
- Fort Campbell, Kentucky: Fort Campbell has a population of over 24,000 and is home to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). The base is a major hub for airborne and aviation units.
- Fort Lewis, Washington: With a population of over 22,000, Fort Lewis is a major base for the US Army’s I Corps and the 62nd Airlift Wing.
Largest US Army Bases by Land Area
While population is an important factor, land area is also a critical consideration for US Army bases. Large bases require extensive resources, infrastructure, and personnel to maintain and operate. Here are the top five largest US Army bases by land area:
- White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico: Covering over 2.2 million acres, White Sands Missile Range is the largest US Army base by land area. The base is a major testing and training facility for the US military.
- Fort Irwin National Training Center, California: With over 642,000 acres, Fort Irwin is a major training base for the US Army. The base is home to the National Training Center and the US Army’s Opposing Forces (OPFOR) program.
- Fort Hood, Texas: Fort Hood covers over 534,000 acres, making it one of the largest US Army bases by land area. The base is home to the 1st Cavalry Division and the 3rd Armored Corps.
- Fort Bliss, Texas: With over 444,000 acres, Fort Bliss is a major base for the US Army’s 1st Armored Division and the US Army Air Defense Artillery Center.
- Fort Benning, Georgia: Covering over 432,000 acres, Fort Benning is a major training base for the US Army. The base is home to the Maneuver Center of Excellence and the US Army Infantry School.
Important Missions and Roles
US Army bases play a critical role in the country’s defense and national security. From training and readiness to research and development, these bases are essential to the US military’s ability to respond to emerging threats and protect American interests. Some of the key missions and roles of these bases include:
- Training and Readiness: US Army bases are responsible for training soldiers in a variety of skills, from basic combat training to advanced specialized skills.
- Research and Development: Many US Army bases are home to research and development facilities, where scientists and engineers work to develop new technologies and capabilities.
- Operational Missions: US Army bases are responsible for supporting operational missions, including combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.
- Homeland Defense: US Army bases play a critical role in homeland defense, providing support to civil authorities and protecting American citizens and interests.
🚨 Note: The information provided is subject to change and may not reflect the current status of the bases.
In summary, the largest US Army bases by population and land area are critical components of the US military’s ability to defend the country and protect American interests. From training and readiness to research and development, these bases play a vital role in supporting operational missions and ensuring the nation’s security.
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