How Many Military Bases in Texas?
Texas is a state with a rich military history and a significant presence of military bases across the state. From World War II to the present day, Texas has played a crucial role in the defense of the United States. In this article, we will explore the number of military bases in Texas and provide an overview of their history, purpose, and significance.
Direct Answer: How Many Military Bases in Texas?
According to the Texas Military Department, there are 15 major military bases in Texas, which are operated by the United States Armed Forces. These bases are:
- Air Force: 5 bases
- Army: 4 bases
- Navy: 2 bases
- Coast Guard: 1 base
- Space Force: 1 base
History of Military Bases in Texas
Texas has a long history of military presence, dating back to the early 19th century. During the Mexican-American War, the United States established several military outposts in Texas to protect its interests in the region. After the war, the military presence in Texas continued to grow, with the establishment of Fort Brown in 1846 and Fort Bliss in 1849.
Major Military Bases in Texas
Here is a list of the 15 major military bases in Texas, along with their location, purpose, and significant facts:
| Base | Location | Purpose | Significant Facts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lackland Air Force Base | San Antonio | Basic Military Training | Home to the United States Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) program, which trains over 35,000 new airmen each year. |
| Randolph Air Force Base | Universal City | Air Education and Training Command | Home to the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), which provides training to aircrew and maintenance personnel. |
| Fort Hood | Killeen | Army | Largest active-duty armored post in the United States, with over 36,000 soldiers stationed there. |
| Fort Bliss | El Paso | Army | Home to the 1st Armored Division and the 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command. |
| Fort Sam Houston | San Antonio | Army | Home to the US Army North (Fifth Army) and the US Army South (Sixth Army). |
| Fort Polk | Leesville | Army | Home to the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and the 95th Civil Affairs Brigade. |
| Corpus Christi Army Depot | Corpus Christi | Army | One of the largest and most modern Army maintenance facilities in the world. |
| NAS Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Navy | Home to the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, which provides training for naval aviators. |
| NAS Kingsville | Kingsville | Navy | Home to the Naval Air Station Kingsville, which provides training for naval aviators. |
| Ellsworth Air Force Base | Big Spring | Air Force | Home to the 7th Bomb Wing, which operates the B-1B Lancer bomber. |
| Goodfellow Air Force Base | San Angelo | Air Force | Home to the 17th Training Wing, which provides training for aircrew and maintenance personnel. |
| Sheppard Air Force Base | Wichita Falls | Air Force | Home to the 82nd Training Wing, which provides training for aircrew and maintenance personnel. |
| Coast Guard Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Coast Guard | Home to the Coast Guard Sector/Air Station Corpus Christi, which provides search and rescue services and maritime law enforcement. |
| Space Force Base | El Paso | Space Force | Home to the 1st Space Brigade, which provides space operations and space-based intelligence. |
Economic Impact of Military Bases in Texas
The military bases in Texas have a significant economic impact on the state. According to a study by the Texas Military Department, the military bases in Texas generate:
- $22.5 billion in economic output
- $1.3 billion in state and local taxes
- 145,000 jobs
- $9.5 billion in payroll
Conclusion
In conclusion, Texas has a significant presence of military bases, with 15 major bases operated by the United States Armed Forces. These bases play a crucial role in the defense of the United States and have a significant economic impact on the state. From basic military training to advanced space operations, the military bases in Texas are an important part of the state’s history and economy.
