What States Have Military Bases?
The United States has a vast network of military bases across the country, with a total of 153 active military installations, according to the Department of Defense’s (DoD) 2020 Base Structure Report. These bases play a crucial role in the country’s national defense, serving as hubs for military operations, training, and logistics. In this article, we will explore the states with the most military bases, highlighting the significance of these installations and their impact on the surrounding communities.
Top 10 States with the Most Military Bases
Contents
Rank 1: California – 35 Military Bases
California is home to the largest number of military bases in the country, with a total of 35 installations. Some of the notable bases in California include:
- Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton: A major training facility for the United States Marine Corps
- Naval Base San Diego: A key naval base on the West Coast
- Beale Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s F-15C and F-15E fighter jets
Rank 2: Texas – 23 Military Bases
Texas is second on the list, with a total of 23 military bases. Some of the notable bases in Texas include:
- Fort Hood: A major Army base and home to the 1st Cavalry Division
- Ellsworth Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s B-1B bombers
- Lackland Air Force Base: A training base for the United States Air Force
Rank 3: Virginia – 19 Military Bases
Virginia is home to a significant number of military bases, with a total of 19 installations. Some of the notable bases in Virginia include:
- Joint Base Langley-Eustis: A joint base for the United States Air Force and Army
- Fort Belvoir: A major Army base and home to the Defense Intelligence Agency
- Quantico Marine Corps Base: A training facility for the United States Marine Corps
Rank 4: Florida – 17 Military Bases
Florida is home to 17 military bases, with a total of 17 installations. Some of the notable bases in Florida include:
- Homestead Air Reserve Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s F-16 fighter jets
- Tyndall Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s F-22 fighter jets
- Mayport Naval Station: A major naval base on the East Coast
Rank 5: Georgia – 15 Military Bases
Georgia is home to 15 military bases, with a total of 15 installations. Some of the notable bases in Georgia include:
- Fort Benning: A major Army base and home to the Army’s Infantry School
- Robins Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s C-5M and C-130J aircraft
- Hunter Army Airfield: A base for the United States Army’s aviation units
Other Notable Military Bases
While the top 5 states with the most military bases have been highlighted, other states also have significant military presences. Some of the notable bases in other states include:
- Fort Campbell: A major Army base in Kentucky, home to the 101st Airborne Division
- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s research and development units in Ohio
- Naval Base Kitsap: A major naval base in Washington state
- Ellsworth Air Force Base: A base for the United States Air Force’s B-1B bombers in South Dakota
Impact of Military Bases on Local Communities
Military bases have a significant impact on the local communities in which they are located. Some of the benefits of having a military base in a community include:
- Economic Benefits: Military bases bring in significant revenue to local economies through payroll, procurement, and other economic activities.
- Job Creation: Military bases create a significant number of jobs, both directly and indirectly, in the surrounding communities.
- Community Engagement: Military bases often engage in community outreach and engagement activities, such as festivals, parades, and educational programs.
- Security: Military bases provide an added layer of security to the surrounding communities, with military personnel and equipment stationed on base.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the United States has a significant number of military bases across the country, with 153 active installations. The top 5 states with the most military bases are California, Texas, Virginia, Florida, and Georgia. These bases play a crucial role in the country’s national defense, serving as hubs for military operations, training, and logistics. The impact of military bases on local communities is significant, with benefits including economic benefits, job creation, community engagement, and security.
