How Many Soldiers at Fort Bliss?
Fort Bliss is a United States Army post located in El Paso, Texas, and it is one of the largest military installations in the country. The post has a long history dating back to the late 19th century, and it has played a significant role in several military conflicts, including both World Wars, the Cold War, and the Global War on Terror.
A Brief History of Fort Bliss
Fort Bliss was established in 1893 as a cavalry post, and it was named after Lt. Col. William Bliss, a former commander of the 8th Cavalry Regiment. During World War I, the post was used as a training facility for cavalry units, and it also served as a hospital for wounded soldiers.
During World War II, Fort Bliss played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a major training facility for armored and artillery units. The post also housed a prisoner of war camp, where over 10,000 German and Italian prisoners were held.
Current Status and Military Units
Today, Fort Bliss is a thriving military installation, with a total population of over 65,000 soldiers, civilians, and family members. The post is home to a diverse range of military units, including:
- 1st Armored Division: The 1st Armored Division is a major unit based at Fort Bliss, with a strength of over 15,000 soldiers. The division is equipped with M1 Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and other armored vehicles.
- 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division: This brigade is a rapid-response unit that can deploy quickly to crisis areas around the world. The brigade has a strength of over 2,000 soldiers.
- 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade: This brigade is responsible for providing air defense for Fort Bliss and the surrounding area. The brigade has a strength of over 1,000 soldiers.
- 31st Chemical Battalion: This battalion is responsible for providing chemical defense and decontamination services to the post. The battalion has a strength of over 500 soldiers.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics about Fort Bliss:
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total population | 65,000 |
| Soldiers | 35,000 |
| Civilians | 15,000 |
| Family members | 15,000 |
| Square miles | 1,200 |
| Hectares | 487,500 |
| MWR facilities | 35 |
| Dining facilities | 15 |
| Commissaries | 3 |
| Exchanges | 2 |
Key Services and Facilities
Fort Bliss offers a range of services and facilities to its soldiers and their families, including:
- Commissaries: Three commissaries are located on post, offering a wide range of groceries and other essentials.
- Exchanges: Two exchanges are located on post, offering a wide range of goods and services, including clothing, electronics, and sporting goods.
- Dining facilities: Fifteen dining facilities are located on post, offering a range of cuisines and dining options.
- MWR facilities: Thirty-five Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities are located on post, offering a range of recreational activities, including golf, bowling, and fitness centers.
- Schools: Fort Bliss has a range of schools for children, including elementary, middle, and high schools.
- Hospitals: Two hospitals are located on post, offering medical care to soldiers and their families.
Conclusion
Fort Bliss is a thriving military installation with a long history of service to the United States. With over 65,000 soldiers, civilians, and family members, it is one of the largest military bases in the country. The post is home to a diverse range of military units, including the 1st Armored Division and the 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade. With a range of services and facilities, Fort Bliss provides a high quality of life for its soldiers and their families.
