How Big is 29 Palms Marine Base?
The 29 Palms Marine Base, also known as the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, is a United States Marine Corps base located in Twentynine Palms, California. The base is situated in the Mojave Desert, approximately 125 miles east of San Bernardino. As one of the largest military bases in the United States, 29 Palms Marine Base spans over 1,324 square miles, making it roughly the size of 1,700 square feet. To put this into perspective, the base is approximately 12% of the total land area of the state of Rhode Island.
Camp Horno
The main base is divided into three main areas: Camp Horno, Camp Wilson, and the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) area. Camp Horno is the largest of the three, covering an area of 215 square miles. The camp is home to several units, including the 1st Marine Division, the 1st Force Service Support Group, and the 1st Tank Battalion.
Camp Wilson
Camp Wilson, on the other hand, covers an area of 80 square miles. This camp is primarily used for training and is home to the 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, and the 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion.
MAWTS-1 Area
The MAWTS-1 area is dedicated to aviation operations and covers an area of 20 square miles. This area is used for aviation training, including helicopter operations, fixed-wing operations, and vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) operations.
Other Facilities and Infrastructure
In addition to the three main areas, the 29 Palms Marine Base has several other facilities and infrastructure, including:
• Airports: The base has two airports, the Twenty-Nine Palms Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Airport and the Twentynine Palms Army National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility. The former is used for military operations, while the latter is used for civilian and military aviation training.
• Heliports: The base has four heliports, designated as H-1, H-2, H-3, and H-4. These heliports are used for helicopter operations and training.
• Runways: The base has several runways, including a 10,000-foot primary runway and a 5,000-foot auxiliary runway. These runways are used for fixed-wing operations.
• Training Areas: The base has several training areas, including the Twentynine Palms National Training Center, which is used for joint military training exercises.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics about the 29 Palms Marine Base:
| Statistics | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Area | 1,324 square miles |
| Camp Horno Area | 215 square miles |
| Camp Wilson Area | 80 square miles |
| MAWTS-1 Area | 20 square miles |
| Airports | 2 |
| Heliports | 4 |
| Runways | 2 (primary and auxiliary) |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 29 Palms Marine Base is a vast and sprawling military installation, covering over 1,324 square miles in the Mojave Desert. With its three main areas – Camp Horno, Camp Wilson, and the MAWTS-1 area – the base is capable of accommodating a wide range of military operations and training exercises. Its extensive facilities and infrastructure, including airports, heliports, runways, and training areas, make it a critical component of the US military’s training and readiness efforts.
