Fort Drum Ny Army Base Information

The United States Army has a significant presence in New York, with one of its most notable bases being Fort Drum, located in upstate New York. Fort Drum is a major military installation that serves as the home of the 10th Mountain Division, a prestigious unit known for its expertise in mountain warfare. The base is situated in the picturesque North Country of New York, approximately 30 miles northwest of Watertown, and covers an area of over 107,000 acres. With its stunning natural surroundings and state-of-the-art facilities, Fort Drum is an ideal location for military training and operations.

Fort Drum has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, when it was first established as a training facility for the New York National Guard. Over the years, the base has undergone significant transformations, expanding its capabilities and infrastructure to accommodate the growing needs of the US military. Today, Fort Drum is a thriving community that supports over 19,000 active-duty soldiers, 3,000 civilians, and 15,000 family members. The base is also home to a wide range of units, including the 10th Mountain Division, the 10th Sustainment Brigade, and the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

History of Fort Drum

The history of Fort Drum is a fascinating story that reflects the evolution of the US military and its response to changing global circumstances. Established in 1908 as Pine Camp, the base was initially used as a training facility for the New York National Guard. During World War I, the camp was expanded to accommodate the growing number of troops, and it played a significant role in the war effort. In the years following the war, the base was reduced in size, but it continued to serve as a training facility for the National Guard. With the onset of World War II, the base was again expanded, and it became a major training center for the US Army.

Post-War Developments

In the post-war period, Fort Drum underwent significant transformations, with a focus on modernizing its infrastructure and expanding its capabilities. The base was renamed Fort Drum in 1974, in honor of Lieutenant General Hugh A. Drum, a distinguished military leader who had served as the commander of the New York National Guard. During the 1980s, the base underwent a major expansion, with the construction of new facilities, including barracks, training areas, and support infrastructure. This expansion was driven by the growing need for military training and operations in the region.

Military Units and Operations

Fort Drum is home to a wide range of military units, each with its unique mission and capabilities. The 10th Mountain Division is one of the most prestigious units based at Fort Drum, with a long history of excellence in mountain warfare. The division was established in 1943 and has since played a significant role in various military operations, including World War II, the Korean War, and the War in Afghanistan. Other notable units based at Fort Drum include the 10th Sustainment Brigade, which provides logistical support to military operations, and the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, which is a light infantry unit with expertise in mountain warfare.

Training and Operations

Fort Drum offers a wide range of training facilities and opportunities, making it an ideal location for military training and operations. The base has over 100,000 acres of training area, which includes ranges, maneuver areas, and other facilities. The base is also home to the Fort Drum Mountain Warfare School, which provides specialized training in mountain warfare and cold-weather operations. The school offers a range of courses, including the Basic Military Mountaineer Course, the Advanced Military Mountaineer Course, and the Cold-Weather Leader Course.

Quality of Life and Facilities

Fort Drum offers a high quality of life for soldiers and their families, with a range of facilities and amenities that cater to their needs. The base has a wide range of housing options, including on-base housing and off-base rentals. The base is also home to a number of community facilities, including a commissary, a post exchange, and a fitness center. Additionally, the base has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, a bowling alley, and a movie theater.

Education and Healthcare

Fort Drum is committed to providing high-quality education and healthcare services to soldiers and their families. The base has a number of schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, which are operated by the Fort Drum School District. The base is also home to a number of healthcare facilities, including the Fort Drum Army Medical Department Activity, which provides medical care to soldiers and their families. The facility offers a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services.

Economic Impact and Community Involvement

Fort Drum has a significant economic impact on the local community, with a annual budget of over $1 billion. The base is one of the largest employers in the region, with over 19,000 active-duty soldiers and 3,000 civilians. The base also has a significant impact on the local economy, with a range of businesses and industries that cater to the needs of the military community. Additionally, the base is involved in a number of community outreach programs, including the Fort Drum Community Relations Program, which aims to build relationships between the base and the local community.

Environmental Sustainability

Fort Drum is committed to environmental sustainability, with a range of initiatives and programs aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. The base has a number of environmental policies and procedures in place, including a comprehensive environmental management system. The base is also involved in a number of conservation efforts, including the Fort Drum Conservation Program, which aims to protect and preserve the natural resources of the base.

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What is the history of Fort Drum?

Fort Drum has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, when it was first established as a training facility for the New York National Guard.

What military units are based at Fort Drum?

Fort Drum is home to a wide range of military units, including the 10th Mountain Division, the 10th Sustainment Brigade, and the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

What is the quality of life like at Fort Drum?

Fort Drum offers a high quality of life for soldiers and their families, with a range of facilities and amenities that cater to their needs.

What is the economic impact of Fort Drum on the local community?

Fort Drum has a significant economic impact on the local community, with a annual budget of over $1 billion and a range of businesses and industries that cater to the needs of the military community.

What environmental sustainability initiatives is Fort Drum involved in?

Fort Drum is committed to environmental sustainability, with a range of initiatives and programs aimed at reducing its environmental footprint.

In conclusion, Fort Drum is a significant military installation with a rich history, diverse military units, and a strong commitment to quality of life, environmental sustainability, and community involvement. Whether you are a soldier, a family member, or a member of the local community, Fort Drum has something to offer. We invite you to learn more about this incredible base and its contributions to our nation's defense. Share your thoughts and experiences with us, and let's work together to build a stronger, more sustainable future for our military communities.