Georgia plays a vital role in the U.S. military, hosting several key installations across multiple branches. These bases are essential for national defense, training, and logistics, supporting thousands of active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families.

From Army and Air Force installations to naval and Marine Corps facilities, Georgia's military presence strengthens national security and contributes significantly to the state’s economy. This article discusses the major military bases in Georgia, their missions, and their impact.

Army Installations

1. Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning)

Located near Columbus, Fort Moore is renowned as the "Home of the Infantry." Established in 1918, it has been a central training ground for infantry soldiers and is now also the hub for the Army's Armor School. The base spans over 182,000 acres, offering extensive facilities for training and development.

Key Units and Schools:

• Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE)
• U.S. Army Infantry School
• U.S. Army Armor School

Notable Facts:

• Hosts the annual Best Ranger Competition, testing the skills and endurance of the Army's finest.
• Features the National Infantry Museum, preserving the rich history of the U.S. Infantry.

2. Fort Stewart

Situated in Hinesville, approximately 41 miles southwest of Savannah, Fort Stewart is the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River, covering 280,000 acres. It serves as a premier power projection platform, providing training and rapid deployment capabilities for military forces.

Key Units: 3rd Infantry Division

Notable Features:

• Extensive live-fire training ranges and maneuver areas.
• Proximity to the strategic port of Savannah enhances rapid deployment.

3. Hunter Army Airfield

Located in Savannah, Hunter Army Airfield operates in conjunction with Fort Stewart. It boasts a 11,375-foot runway and a 350-acre aircraft parking area, making it capable of accommodating any aircraft in the Department of Defense inventory.

Key Units: 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade

Notable Features:

• Home to the longest runway on the East Coast, facilitating rapid deployment.
• Supports both Army and Air Force operations, enhancing joint mission capabilities.

Air Force Installations

4. Robins Air Force Base

Located near Warner Robins, Robins Air Force Base is a major logistics center for the Air Force. It houses the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, which provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for various aircraft and systems.

Key Units:

• 78th Air Base Wing
• 461st Air Control Wing
• 116th Air Control Wing (Georgia Air National Guard)

Notable Features:

• Hosts the Museum of Aviation, one of the largest aviation museums in the U.S.
• Employs a significant civilian workforce, contributing to the local economy.

5. Moody Air Force Base

Situated near Valdosta, Moody Air Force Base is home to the 23rd Wing, which includes combat search and rescue units. The base's mission focuses on training and deploying combat-ready forces.

Key Units:

• 23rd Wing
• 347th Rescue Group
• 93rd Air Ground Operations Wing

Notable Features:

• Specializes in combat search and rescue operations.
• Provides close air support and personnel recovery capabilities.

6. Dobbins Air Reserve Base

Located in Marietta, Dobbins Air Reserve Basesupports reserve and National Guard operations. It shares its runways with the adjacent Cobb County International Airport.

Key Units:

• 94th Airlift Wing
• 22nd Air Force Headquarters

Notable Features:

• Serves as a training site for Air Force reservists.
• Hosts various joint service exercises and operations.

Navy Installations

7. Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay

Located in Kings Bay, this base serves as the Atlantic home port for the Navy's ballistic missile submarines. It plays a critical role in the nation's strategic deterrence program.

Key Units:

• Submarine Group 10
• Trident Refit Facility

Notable Features:

• Houses Ohio-class submarines equipped with Trident II missiles.
• Provides comprehensive support services, including maintenance and training facilities.

Marine Corps Installations

8. Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany

This base provides comprehensive logistics support for the Marine Corps, ensuring that units are equipped and ready for deployment.

Key Units: Marine Corps Logistics Command

Notable Features:

• Focuses on supply chain management and equipment maintenance.
• Plays a vital role in sustaining Marine Corps operations worldwide.

Additional Installations

9. Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon)

Located near Augusta, Fort Eisenhower is a significant center for signal and cyber operations. It hosts the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and provides advanced training in communications and information technology.

Key Units:

• U.S. Army Cyber Command
• U.S. Army Signal Corps

Notable Features:

• Plays a crucial role in cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and signal intelligence.
• Home to the National Security Agency’s Georgia branch, supporting cyber defense initiatives.

The Importance Of Military Bases In Georgia

Georgia’s military bases serve as hubs for training, logistics, and operations, ensuring the readiness of the U.S. armed forces. These installations:

• Enhance National Security:Bases like Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base house critical defense assets, including nuclear-powered submarines.
• Support Military Training:Fort Moore and Fort Eisenhower's advanced training programs emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving, sometimes using unexpected methods like jigsaw puzzlesto develop spatial reasoning.
• Boost the Economy:Military bases provide jobs, infrastructure, and business opportunities, benefiting local communities.

Georgia's strategic location on the East Coast further strengthens its role in military operations, providing access to key transportation and deployment routes. This access isn't just about moving troops and equipment; it also plays a role in training and readiness. For example, the diverse terrain found in Georgia can be ideal for training exercises, potentially including even specialized skills like survival cooking techniquesin challenging outdoor environments.

The Economic And Strategic Impact Of Georgia’s Military Bases

Georgia’s military installations contribute significantly to both national security and the state’s economy. These bases provide employment to thousands of active-duty service members, civilian contractors, and local residents. Fort Moore and Fort Stewart alone generate billions in economic activity, while Robins Air Force Base is one of the largest industrial employers in the state.

The demanding training regimens at these bases, designed to prepare personnel for any situation, often require long hours and push individuals to their limits. As a result, many service members become familiar with effective strategies, including military tricks to stay awake, to maintain focus and alertness during these rigorous exercises.

Strategically, Georgia’s bases are essential for training, logistics, cyber operations, and power projection. The presence of a major naval submarine base at Kings Bay highlights Georgia’s role in nuclear deterrence, while the Army and Air Force installations ensure rapid deployment capabilities.

FAQs

How Many Military Bases Are In Georgia?

Georgia has several military museums and historical sites that document this such as the National Civil War Naval Museum and the Fort Morris Historic Site. The state is home to thirteen military installations: Dobbins Air Reserve Base. Fort Eisenhower.

Are There Any Tours Available Of Military Bases In Georgia?

Tour availability varies depending on the base. Some bases may offer limited public tours or special events, while others may have restrictions due to security concerns. It's best to check with the specific base for information on tours.

What Is The Largest Military Base In Georgia?

Fort Stewart is the largest military base in Georgia, both in terms of land area and personnel.

Can Civilians Visit Georgia’s Military Bases?

Some bases, such as Fort Moore (National Infantry Museum) and Robins Air Force Base (Museum of Aviation),allow public access to designated areas. However, entry to active operational zones is restricted.

Final Thoughts

Georgia’s military bases play a vital role in national defense, training, logistics, and cybersecurity. These installations not only strengthen the U.S. Armed Forces but also provide significant economic benefits to the state. From Fort Moore’s infantry training to Kings Bay’s strategic deterrence, each base contributes uniquely to America’s security landscape.