What Military Bases are in New York?

The state of New York’s military community has played an important role in national defense dating back to before it was even a state. It is home to the oldest continuously occupied military post, West Point, in the U.S. which served as a stronghold for the Continental Army. Since then the state has been home to multiple bases, but today New York is home to four military installations:

Fort Drum
Fort Hamilton
Hancock Field Air National Guard Base
U.S. Military Academy

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Fort Drum

Home to the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum has a history that reflects the changing nature of warfare over the course of history. The Camp was originally founded in 1908 as Pine Camp, but in 1951 it was renamed in honor of Lt. Gen. Hugh A. Drum, a prominent World War I and II figure. The 10th Mountain Division arrived in 1984 and it has been their home since.

For more information, please see the base website: Fort Drum

Fort Hamilton

Fort Hamilton was founded in 1821 and named after Alexander Hamilton. It was designed to defend New York City from potential attacks by sea. After World War II it shifted its focus away from coastal defense and in the 1970s it became home to the U.S. Army Chaplain Center and School. Fort Hamilton is one of the oldest continuously garrisoned U.S. Army posts.

For more information, please see the base website: Fort Hamilton

Hancock Field Air National Guard Base

The base was established in 1942 as a bomber base for B-17 and B-24 bombers used in World War II. After the war, the base was leased to the City of Syracuse and was designated as a commercial airfield. Today the base is home to the 174th Attack Wing, which includes the historic 138th Attack Squadron.

For more information, please see the base website: Hancock Field Air National Guard Base

U.S. Military Academy

Situated in West Point, NY, this base was founded by President Thomas Jefferson and initially focused on training engineers for the rapid expansion of the U.S. Army. The location of it was chosen for its strategic location overlooking the Hudson River, and served as an important Revolutionary War fortification. Over 80,000 graduates have walked the halls of West Point, and two of them even served as Presidents of the United States.

For more information, please see the base website: U.S. Military Academy