How Many Military Bases Are in Colorado?
Colorado, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities, is also home to a significant number of military bases. These bases play a crucial role in supporting national defense and serving the needs of the United States Armed Forces. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the number of military bases in Colorado and provide an overview of each base.
Direct Answer:
There are 14 military bases in Colorado, comprising a mix of active-duty, reserve, and national guard installations. These bases employ thousands of military personnel, civilians, and contractors, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.
Types of Military Bases in Colorado:
Colorado is home to a diverse range of military bases, including:
- Active-Duty Bases: 7 bases, including:
- Fort Carson (Army)
- Peterson Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Schriever Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station (Air Force)
- United States Air Force Academy (Air Force)
- Buckley Space Force Base (Space Force)
- Lowry Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Reserve Bases: 4 bases, including:
- F.E. Warren Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Schriever Air Force Base (Air Force)
- Pueblo Weis Bros Air National Guard Base (Air National Guard)
- Colorado Air National Guard Base (Air National Guard)
- National Guard Bases: 3 bases, including:
- Colorado Army National Guard Base (Army National Guard)
- Colorado Air National Guard Base (Air National Guard)
- Pueblo Weis Bros Air National Guard Base (Air National Guard)
Breakdown by Branch:
Here’s a breakdown of the number of military bases in Colorado by branch:
| Branch | Number of Bases |
|---|---|
| Army | 2 |
| Air Force | 5 |
| Space Force | 1 |
| National Guard (Army and Air) | 3 |
Table: Military Bases in Colorado
| Base | Branch | Location | Mission |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Carson | Army | Colorado Springs | Active-duty army base, home to 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division |
| Peterson Air Force Base | Air Force | Colorado Springs | Active-duty air force base, home to Air Force Space Command and Air Force Global Strike Command |
| Schriever Air Force Base | Air Force | Colorado Springs | Active-duty air force base, home to Air Force Space Command and Space and Missile Systems Center |
| Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station | Air Force | Colorado Springs | Active-duty air force base, home to 721st Operations Group |
| United States Air Force Academy | Air Force | Colorado Springs | Prestigious military academy, educates officers for the Air Force |
| Buckley Space Force Base | Space Force | Aurora | Active-duty space force base, home to Space Operations Command |
| Lowry Air Force Base | Air Force | Denver | Former active-duty air force base, now used for civilian purposes |
| F.E. Warren Air Force Base | Air Force | Cheyenne | Reserve air force base, home to 90th Missile Wing |
| Pueblo Weis Bros Air National Guard Base | Air National Guard | Pueblo | National guard base, home to 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard |
| Colorado Air National Guard Base | Air National Guard | Centennial | National guard base, home to 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard |
| Colorado Army National Guard Base | Army National Guard | Centennial | National guard base, home to 200th Military Police Battalion, Colorado Army National Guard |
Economic Impact:
The military bases in Colorado have a significant economic impact on the state. According to a 2020 study by the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, the military presence in the state generates:
- $4.2 billion in annual economic output
- 35,000 jobs directly and indirectly related to the military
- $1.4 billion in annual payroll
- $1.2 billion in annual government spending
Conclusion:
Colorado is home to a diverse range of military bases, employing thousands of military personnel, civilians, and contractors. These bases play a crucial role in supporting national defense and contribute significantly to the state’s economy. Whether you’re interested in the history and mission of each base or the economic impact of the military presence in Colorado, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the number of military bases in Colorado and their significance.
