Learn About Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Fort Campbell Overview
City History:
Fort Campbell is a United States Army installation located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border. Established in 1941, the fort was named in honor of Union Army Brigadier General William Bowen Campbell, who was a Mexican-American War hero and the last Whig Governor of Tennessee. Originally built as a training site for the 101st Airborne Division, the fort has since become one of the most important military installations in the United States.
Interesting Facts:
- Fort Campbell is home to the 101st Airborne Division, also known as the "Screaming Eagles," which is one of the most storied and highly decorated divisions in the U.S. Army.
- The fort covers over 105,000 acres and straddles the Kentucky-Tennessee border, with the majority of the installation located in Kentucky.
- Fort Campbell is known for its strong community support programs, including housing, education, and recreational facilities for military personnel and their families.
Interesting People:
- Major General Brian Winski, the current commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division and Fort Campbell, is a highly respected leader in the U.S. Army.
- General David Petraeus, who served as the commander of the 101st Airborne Division and later as the commander of U.S. Central Command and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, is one of the most famous military leaders to have been stationed at Fort Campbell.
Top Attractions in Fort Campbell:
- Don F. Pratt Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the 101st Airborne Division and the military history of Fort Campbell.
- Gander Memorial: A memorial dedicated to the 248 soldiers who lost their lives in the Gander plane crash in 1985.
- Strike Zone Bowling Center: A popular recreational facility for military personnel and their families.
Top Attractions Nearby:
- Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area: A massive inland peninsula with hiking, camping, and water activities.
- Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center: A family-friendly water park in nearby Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
- Jefferson Davis State Historic Site: A memorial to the Confederate president located in nearby Fairview, Kentucky.
Population History:
Fort Campbell has a transient population due to the nature of its military personnel. The fort is home to thousands of active-duty soldiers, as well as their families and civilian employees. The population fluctuates based on deployments and rotations.
Geography:
Fort Campbell is located in western Kentucky, near the towns of Oak Grove and Hopkinsville. The installation is situated on the Cumberland River and is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. The area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Economy:
The economy of Fort Campbell is largely driven by the military installation itself, as well as the businesses and services that support the military community. The fort contributes significantly to the local economy through jobs, contracts, and spending by military personnel and their families.
Culture:
The culture of Fort Campbell is deeply rooted in the military tradition of the 101st Airborne Division. The installation has a strong sense of community and camaraderie among its residents, who come from diverse backgrounds and regions of the country. The fort also has a rich history of military service and sacrifice, which is reflected in its monuments and memorials.
Notable Landmarks:
- Sabalauski Air Assault School: A training facility for helicopter operations and air assault tactics.
- 101st Airborne Division Memorial: A monument dedicated to the soldiers of the Screaming Eagles who have served and sacrificed for their country.
- Fort Campbell MWR: A network of recreational facilities and programs for military personnel and their families.