What Military Bases are in Virginia?
Virginia, a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, has a rich history of military presence and service. With its strategic location along the East Coast, Virginia has played a significant role in the country’s defense and military operations. Today, the state is home to numerous military bases, each serving a unique purpose and contributing to the country’s national security.
Overview of Military Bases in Virginia
Virginia is home to a total of 14 military bases, spread across the state. These bases are operated by the United States Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Here’s a breakdown of the military bases in Virginia:
Base | Location | Branch | Purpose |
---|---|---|---|
Fort Belvoir | Fairfax County | Army | Headquarters of the United States Army Military District of Washington |
Fort Eustis | Newport News | Army | Transportation Corps, Army Quartermaster Corps, and Army Ordnance Corps |
Fort Lee | Prince George County | Army | Army Logistics University, Army Quartermaster Center, and Transportation Corps |
Fort Monroe | Hampton | Army | Formerly a coastal defense fort, now a museum and memorial |
Joint Base Langley-Eustis | Hampton | Air Force and Army | Air Combat Command, Army Forces Command, and Army Aviation Center of Excellence |
Naval Air Station Oceana | Virginia Beach | Navy | Naval Aviation Station and Fleet Readiness Center |
Naval Station Norfolk | Norfolk | Navy | Largest naval base in the world, home to over 75 ships and 134 aircraft |
Norfolk Naval Shipyard | Portsmouth | Navy | Ship repair and maintenance facility |
Quantico Marine Corps Base | Quantico | Marine Corps | Marine Corps Base and Training Center |
U.S. Coast Guard Training Center | Yorktown | Coast Guard | Training facility for Coast Guard enlisted personnel |
Langley Air Force Base | Hampton | Air Force | Air Combat Command and Air Force Space Command |
Patrick Henry Airport | Newport News | Air Force | Military airfield and training facility |
Pentagon | Arlington | Joint | Headquarters of the United States Department of Defense |
Yorktown Naval Weapons Station | Yorktown | Navy | Munitions storage and handling facility |
Notable Military Bases in Virginia
While all the military bases in Virginia play a crucial role in the country’s defense, some stand out for their unique purpose or significance. Here are a few notable examples:
- Fort Belvoir: Located in Fairfax County, Fort Belvoir is the headquarters of the United States Army Military District of Washington. The base is also home to the Defense Intelligence Agency and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
- Naval Station Norfolk: As the largest naval base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk is a major hub for naval operations. The base is home to over 75 ships and 134 aircraft, and is responsible for supporting naval operations around the world.
- Quantico Marine Corps Base: Located in Quantico, this base is a major training center for the Marine Corps. The base is home to the Marine Corps Officer Candidates School, the Marine Corps Basic School, and the Marine Corps Engineer School.
- Pentagon: While not a traditional military base, the Pentagon is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Located in Arlington, the Pentagon is a symbol of American military power and serves as the nerve center for military operations around the world.
Economic Impact of Military Bases in Virginia
The military bases in Virginia have a significant economic impact on the state. According to a study by the Virginia Defense and Security Industrial Base, the military bases in Virginia generate over $15 billion in economic activity each year. This includes:
- Direct Employment: The military bases in Virginia employ over 100,000 people, both military personnel and civilians.
- Indirect Employment: The bases also support thousands of jobs in the surrounding communities, including jobs in industries such as healthcare, education, and retail.
- Economic Output: The bases generate over $15 billion in economic output each year, making them a significant contributor to the state’s economy.
Conclusion
Virginia is home to a diverse range of military bases, each serving a unique purpose and contributing to the country’s national security. From the largest naval base in the world to the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, the military bases in Virginia play a critical role in the country’s defense and military operations. With their significant economic impact and rich history, the military bases in Virginia are an important part of the state’s identity and heritage.