Top 5 Military Bases In Washington State

Washington State is home to a significant number of military bases, each playing a crucial role in the country's defense and security. From the scenic Puget Sound to the rolling hills of Eastern Washington, these bases are strategically located to protect the nation's interests and provide critical support to military personnel and their families.

The state's military bases are also major economic drivers, generating billions of dollars in revenue and creating thousands of jobs. In this article, we will explore the top 5 military bases in Washington State, highlighting their unique features, mission, and contributions to the local community.

1. Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM)

Located in Pierce County, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) is one of the largest military bases in the United States. The base is a merger of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base, which were combined in 2010 to create a joint base. JBLM is home to over 40,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors, making it one of the largest employers in the state.

JBLM is a major training base for the Army and Air Force, with a focus on infantry, artillery, and aviation operations. The base is also a key location for humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, with its proximity to the Puget Sound and access to major transportation routes.

The base's economic impact is significant, with an estimated annual output of over $6 billion. JBLM is also a major contributor to the local community, with partnerships with local schools, non-profits, and businesses.

Key Units and Tenants:

• 1st Corps, US Army
• 62nd Airlift Wing, US Air Force
• 446th Airlift Wing, US Air Force Reserve
• Washington Army National Guard

2. Naval Base Kitsap

Located in Kitsap County, Naval Base Kitsap is a major naval base that serves as the homeport for the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) and other naval vessels. The base is also a key location for naval aviation, with the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and the Naval Station Bremerton.

Naval Base Kitsap is a major economic driver for the region, with an estimated annual output of over $1 billion. The base is also a significant employer, with over 15,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.

The base's strategic location on the Puget Sound provides access to major shipping lanes and allows for rapid deployment of naval assets.

Key Units and Tenants:

• USS Nimitz (CVN-68)
• Naval Air Station Whidbey Island
• Naval Station Bremerton
• Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility

3. Fairchild Air Force Base

Located in Spokane County, Fairchild Air Force Base is a major air base that serves as the home of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing. The base is also a key location for the Air Force's KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.

Fairchild AFB is a significant economic driver for the region, with an estimated annual output of over $500 million. The base is also a major employer, with over 5,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.

The base's strategic location in Eastern Washington provides access to major transportation routes and allows for rapid deployment of air assets.

Key Units and Tenants:

• 92nd Air Refueling Wing
• 141st Air Refueling Wing, Washington Air National Guard
• 336th Training Group

4. Naval Station Everett

Located in Snohomish County, Naval Station Everett is a major naval base that serves as the homeport for the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) and other naval vessels. The base is also a key location for naval aviation, with the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Naval Station Everett is a significant economic driver for the region, with an estimated annual output of over $200 million. The base is also a major employer, with over 5,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.

The base's strategic location on the Puget Sound provides access to major shipping lanes and allows for rapid deployment of naval assets.

Key Units and Tenants:

• USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71)
• Naval Air Station Whidbey Island
• Naval Station Everett

5. Yakima Training Center

Located in Yakima County, the Yakima Training Center is a major training base for the Army and Air National Guard. The base is also a key location for joint training exercises and humanitarian missions.

The Yakima Training Center is a significant economic driver for the region, with an estimated annual output of over $100 million. The base is also a major employer, with over 1,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.

The base's strategic location in Central Washington provides access to major transportation routes and allows for rapid deployment of military assets.

Key Units and Tenants:

• 81st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Washington Army National Guard
• 141st Air Refueling Wing, Washington Air National Guard
• Yakima Training Center

In conclusion, Washington State's military bases play a critical role in the country's defense and security. From the scenic Puget Sound to the rolling hills of Eastern Washington, these bases are strategically located to protect the nation's interests and provide critical support to military personnel and their families.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with Washington State's military bases in the comments below. What do you think is the most significant contribution of these bases to the state's economy and community?

What is the largest military base in Washington State?

+

Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) is the largest military base in Washington State, with over 40,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.

What is the economic impact of Naval Base Kitsap?

+

Naval Base Kitsap has an estimated annual output of over $1 billion, making it a significant economic driver for the region.

What is the primary mission of Fairchild Air Force Base?

+

Fairchild Air Force Base is the home of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing and serves as a key location for the Air Force's KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.