What Military Bases are in Kansas?
Kansas, located in the heart of the United States, has a rich military history and is home to several significant military bases. These bases play a crucial role in the country’s defense and security, and they provide a wide range of services and facilities to military personnel and their families. In this article, we will explore the military bases in Kansas and provide an overview of each base.
Fort Leavenworth
Located in Leavenworth, Kansas, Fort Leavenworth is one of the oldest military bases in the United States. Established in 1827, the base has a long history of serving as a training ground for military personnel and a storage facility for military equipment. Today, Fort Leavenworth is home to the United States Disciplinary Barracks, which is the largest maximum-security prison in the world. The base also houses the US Army Command and General Staff College, which provides training to military officers.
Fort Riley
Located in Junction City, Kansas, Fort Riley is a major military base that has been in operation since 1853. The base is home to the 1st Infantry Division, which is one of the most decorated divisions in the US Army. Fort Riley also hosts the US Army Cavalry and Armor Center, which provides training to cavalry and armor units. The base is also home to the Fort Riley Museum, which showcases the history of the base and the US Army.
Wichita Army Aviation Field
Located in Wichita, Kansas, Wichita Army Aviation Field is a military base that is primarily used for helicopter training. The base is home to the US Army Aviation Center of Excellence, which provides training to helicopter pilots and maintenance personnel. The base is also home to the Wichita Army Aviation Field Museum, which showcases the history of aviation in the US Army.
McConnell Air Force Base
Located in Wichita, Kansas, McConnell Air Force Base is a major military base that is home to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing. The base is responsible for providing air refueling and airlift services to the US military. McConnell AFB is also home to the US Air Force Security Forces, which provides security services to the base.
Other Military Bases in Kansas
In addition to the bases mentioned above, there are several other military bases in Kansas that provide a range of services and facilities to military personnel and their families. These bases include:
- Kansas National Guard: The Kansas National Guard is a reserve component of the US military that provides support to the active duty military. The guard has bases located throughout the state, including in Topeka, Wichita, and Kansas City.
- US Coast Guard Sector Kansas City: Located in Kansas City, Kansas, the US Coast Guard Sector Kansas City provides search and rescue services, as well as maritime law enforcement and environmental protection.
- US Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District: Located in Kansas City, Missouri, the US Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District provides engineering services to the US military and other government agencies.
Table: Military Bases in Kansas
| Base | Location | Primary Mission |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Leavenworth | Leavenworth | Training and storage |
| Fort Riley | Junction City | Infantry training |
| Wichita Army Aviation Field | Wichita | Helicopter training |
| McConnell Air Force Base | Wichita | Air refueling and airlift |
| Kansas National Guard | Topeka, Wichita, Kansas City | Reserve component |
| US Coast Guard Sector Kansas City | Kansas City | Search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, environmental protection |
| US Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District | Kansas City | Engineering services |
Conclusion
Kansas is home to several significant military bases that play a crucial role in the country’s defense and security. From Fort Leavenworth to McConnell Air Force Base, each base provides a unique set of services and facilities to military personnel and their families. Whether it’s training, storage, or engineering services, these bases are essential to the US military’s mission.
