How Many Military Bases are in Virginia?
Virginia, known as the "Mother of Presidents," has a rich history of military presence and significance. From the Revolutionary War to the present day, the state has played a crucial role in the country’s defense and military operations. With its strategic location along the East Coast, Virginia has been home to numerous military bases throughout its history. In this article, we will explore the number of military bases in Virginia and provide an overview of their significance.
Direct Answer: How Many Military Bases are in Virginia?
According to the Virginia Department of Military Affairs, there are 25 active military bases in the state. These bases are operated by the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
Breakdown of Military Bases in Virginia
Here is a breakdown of the military bases in Virginia by branch:
- United States Army: 7 bases
- Fort Belvoir: A major Army base located in Fairfax County, serving as the headquarters for the United States Army Materiel Command.
- Fort Lee: A major Army base located in Prince George County, serving as the headquarters for the United States Army Quartermaster Corps.
- Fort Pickett: A training base located in Nottoway County, used for military training and exercises.
- Fort A.P. Hill: A training base located in Caroline County, used for military training and exercises.
- Fort Eustis: A logistics base located in Newport News, serving as the headquarters for the United States Army Transportation Command.
- Fort Story: A coastal defense base located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for the Army National Guard.
- Fort Myer: A base located in Arlington County, serving as the headquarters for the United States Army Military District of Washington.
- United States Navy: 4 bases
- Naval Station Norfolk: A major naval base located in Norfolk, serving as the world’s largest naval station.
- Naval Air Station Oceana: A naval air station located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for naval aviators.
- Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek: A base located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for naval special warfare units.
- Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story: A joint base located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for the Navy and Marine Corps.
- United States Air Force: 5 bases
- Langley Air Force Base: A major Air Force base located in Hampton, serving as the headquarters for the United States Air Force Air Combat Command.
- Joint Base Langley-Eustis: A joint base located in Hampton, serving as a training facility for the Air Force and Army.
- Naval Air Station Oceana: A naval air station located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for naval aviators.
- Fort Eustis: A logistics base located in Newport News, serving as the headquarters for the United States Army Transportation Command.
- Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall: A joint base located in Arlington County, serving as a training facility for the Air Force and Army.
- United States Marine Corps: 2 bases
- Marine Corps Base Quantico: A major Marine Corps base located in Prince William County, serving as the headquarters for the United States Marine Corps Forces Command.
- Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point: A naval air station located in Virginia Beach, serving as a training facility for naval aviators.
- United States Coast Guard: 2 bases
- Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City: A base located in Elizabeth City, serving as a training facility for the Coast Guard.
- Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown: A training facility located in Yorktown, serving as a training facility for the Coast Guard.
Significance of Military Bases in Virginia
Virginia’s military bases play a crucial role in the country’s defense and military operations. Here are some significant points to note:
- Economic Impact: Military bases in Virginia generate significant economic activity, with an estimated annual economic impact of $10 billion.
- Employment: Military bases in Virginia employ thousands of people, with an estimated 40,000 military and civilian personnel working on the bases.
- Training and Exercises: Virginia’s military bases serve as training facilities for military personnel, with Joint Base Langley-Eustis and Fort A.P. Hill being two of the largest training facilities in the country.
- Logistics and Supply: Virginia’s military bases serve as logistics and supply hubs, with Fort Eustis and Naval Station Norfolk being two of the largest logistics bases in the country.
- History and Heritage: Virginia’s military bases have a rich history and heritage, with many bases dating back to the Revolutionary War era.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Virginia is home to 25 active military bases, with a significant economic impact, employment opportunities, and a rich history and heritage. The state’s military bases play a crucial role in the country’s defense and military operations, and their presence is a testament to Virginia’s importance in the country’s military strategy.
