Learn About Fort Belvoir, Virginia
Fort Belvoir Overview
City History
Fort Belvoir is a United States Army installation located in Fairfax County, Virginia. It was established in 1917 as Camp A. A. Humphreys and was later renamed Fort Belvoir in honor of the Belvoir plantation that once stood on the land. The fort has served as a training and mobilization center for the Army, as well as a logistics and intelligence hub.
Interesting Facts
- Fort Belvoir is home to the United States Army Intelligence and Security Command, which is responsible for providing intelligence support to military operations.
- The fort is also the headquarters of the Defense Logistics Agency, which manages the supply chain for the Department of Defense.
- Fort Belvoir is the largest employer in Fairfax County, with over 50,000 military and civilian personnel stationed there.
Interesting People
- General George S. Patton, the famous World War II general, was stationed at Fort Belvoir early in his military career.
- General Colin Powell, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State, also served at Fort Belvoir.
Top Attractions in Fort Belvoir
- Fort Belvoir Golf Club: A championship golf course located on the fort grounds.
- Fort Belvoir Officers' Club: A historic building that offers dining and event space for military personnel and their families.
- Fort Belvoir Historical Museum: A museum that showcases the history of the fort and its role in the US Army.
Top Attractions Nearby
- Mount Vernon: The historic estate of George Washington, located just a few miles south of Fort Belvoir.
- National Museum of the United States Army: A new museum opening in 2020 that will showcase the history of the US Army.
- Old Town Alexandria: A charming waterfront town with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Population History
The population of Fort Belvoir fluctuates depending on military deployments and training exercises. At any given time, there can be tens of thousands of military personnel and civilians living and working on the fort.
Geography
Fort Belvoir is located on the Potomac River in northern Virginia, just south of Washington, D.C. The fort covers over 8,000 acres of land and includes residential neighborhoods, office buildings, and training facilities.
Economy
The economy of Fort Belvoir is largely driven by the military and defense industry. The fort is home to a number of defense contractors and support services that provide jobs for the local community.
Culture
Fort Belvoir has a diverse and vibrant community, with military personnel and civilians from all over the country and the world. The fort hosts events and activities throughout the year to celebrate the diversity and contributions of its residents.
Notable Landmarks
- Belvoir Castle: A historic building on the fort grounds that dates back to the 18th century.
- Engineer Proving Grounds: A testing facility for military vehicles and equipment.
- Fort Belvoir Commissary: A large grocery store that serves military personnel and their families.