How Many Military Bases are in North Carolina?
North Carolina has a rich military history and a significant presence of military bases throughout the state. With a total of 22 military bases, North Carolina plays a crucial role in the country’s defense and national security. These bases are operated by the United States Army, United States Navy, United States Air Force, and United States Marine Corps.
Breakdown of Military Bases in North Carolina
Here is a breakdown of the 22 military bases in North Carolina, categorized by branch of service:
- United States Army: 9 bases
- Fort Bragg (Fayetteville)
- Fort Campbell (Fayetteville)
- Fort Fisher (Kure Beach)
- Fort Gordon (Kinston)
- Fort Gordon-Camp Davis (Kinston)
- Fort Pickett (Blackstone)
- Camp Mackall (Sope Creek)
- Camp Davis (Kinston)
- Camp Lejeune (Jacksonville)
- United States Navy: 4 bases
- Naval Air Station (Cherry Point)
- Naval Station (Wilmington)
- Camp Lejeune (Jacksonville)
- USS North Carolina (Wilmington)
- United States Air Force: 4 bases
- Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (Goldsboro)
- Pope Air Force Base (Fayetteville)
- Fort Bragg (Fayetteville)
- Camp Davis (Kinston)
- United States Marine Corps: 5 bases
- Camp Lejeune (Jacksonville)
- Camp Johnson (Fayetteville)
- Camp Davis (Kinston)
- Fort Pickett (Blackstone)
- Fort Bragg (Fayetteville)
Significant Military Bases in North Carolina
Some of the most significant military bases in North Carolina include:
- Fort Bragg: Home to the 82nd Airborne Division and the 18th Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg is one of the largest military bases in the world.
- Seymour Johnson Air Force Base: This base is home to the 4th Fighter Wing, which operates the F-15E Strike Eagle.
- Naval Air Station (Cherry Point): This base is home to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and is one of the largest Marine Corps air stations in the world.
- Camp Lejeune: This base is home to the 2nd Marine Division and is one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world.
Economic Impact of Military Bases in North Carolina
The military bases in North Carolina have a significant economic impact on the state. According to a study by the North Carolina Military Business Center, the military bases in North Carolina generate:
- $6.4 billion in economic impact annually
- 145,000 direct and indirect jobs
- $2.1 billion in federal taxes paid annually
- $1.1 billion in state and local taxes paid annually
Challenges Facing Military Bases in North Carolina
Despite the significant economic impact of military bases in North Carolina, they face several challenges, including:
- Budget constraints: Military bases in North Carolina face budget constraints, which can lead to reduced funding and personnel.
- Infrastructure maintenance: Many military bases in North Carolina require significant infrastructure maintenance, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- Environmental concerns: Some military bases in North Carolina have environmental concerns, such as contaminated soil and water, which must be addressed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, North Carolina has a significant presence of military bases, with a total of 22 bases across the state. These bases play a crucial role in the country’s defense and national security, and have a significant economic impact on the state. Despite the challenges facing these bases, they remain an important part of North Carolina’s history and economy.
