In 1918, Fort Benning was the Home of the Infantry. It covers 182,000 acres that spans across Chattahoochee County, Georgia and Russell County, Alabama. The base currently supports over 120,000 individuals who are either on active duty, military families, reserve soldiers, and employees. It is the headquarters of the U.S. Army Infantry School, the U.S. Army Armor School, the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation, and other units.
When Fort Benning was first established in 1918, its mission was to train units involved in World War I. Dwight D. Eisenhower served here for a year but the entire base closed in 1919. In 1934, the base was reopened by General George Marshall and he served as the head of the Infantry school. The buildings which were built can still be seen at the base. It continued to expand when the 2nd Armored Division was established there in 1940.
When the 40s and World War II came, Fort Benning covered 197,159 acres and was able to house 3,970 and 94,873 enlisted persons. They had 249 feet towers where paratroopers were able to train from, only which three of still stand today. Fort Benning is also known as being the site of the Scout dog school during the Vietnam War. They were able to train dogs to detect enemy ambushes in difficult terrains overseas.
The mission of Fort Benning is threefold. The Maneuver Center is responsible for providing trained and able soldiers for when the country is at war as well as ensuring the quality of life of the soldiers and their families during training. The Infantry school was developed to help train civilians into Infantrymen. This division is trained in army values, skills, fitness, and character. Last is the Armor school. This educates and trains the Armored Soldiers in the U.S. for service.
According to the official website of Fort Benning, there are five main priorities of the United States Army Maneuver Center and Fort Benning. The first is that they will fully support an Army that is at war. Next, they are dedicated to preparing for the future. They want to ensure that the quality of life of the soldiers and their families are upheld during their time at Fort Benning. They also want to operate in a way that the Fort is known for its teamwork and discipline. Lastly, they want to be a demonstration of inspired leadership.
There are four main posts or cantonment areas at the base. First is the Main Post. This serves as a place to house units like the 36th Engineer Group, the 988th Military Police Company, and the 43rd Engineer Battalion. Kelley Hill is responsible for two combined army battalions and is the living quarters for the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Division. The main location for the Infantry Training Brigade is Sand Hill. It is also the primary location for the Basic Combat Training Brigade. The last cantonment area is the Harmony Church. This houses the 2/29 Infantry Regiment Sniper School and the 1/29th Infantry Regiment.
If you have come under suspicion for a criminal offense committed on Fort Benning property, you could be subject to different laws than would a regular citizen. Our team at The Federal Practice Group Worldwide Service understands and has experience in military criminal law and will do everything in our power to fight for you if you were accused of a crime. Call today to learn more about how we could help you.
Criminal Defense Information Center
Map of Fort Benning, GA
Overview of Fort Benning
The proven attorneys at The Federal Practice Group have over a century of combined experience successfully assisting federal employees through the most difficult periods of their lives and careers.
Connect with us in our D.C., Oklahoma, or California offices by calling the office number below. We'll provide you with the guidance and representation you need.