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Fort Dix

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Fort Dix
Fort Dix
source
NameFort Dix
CaptionAerial view of the installation
LocationJoint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst, New Jersey
TypeUnited States Army training center
Built1917
Used1917–present
ControlledbyUnited States Department of Defense
Garrison108th Training Command

Fort Dix. It is a major United States Army installation located within the confines of Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst in New Jersey. Established during World War I, it has served as a primary training and mobilization center for the American Expeditionary Forces and subsequent generations of soldiers. Today, it operates as a key component of one of the nation's premier joint bases, supporting a wide range of military readiness activities.

History

The installation was established in June 1917, initially named Camp Dix after Major General John Adams Dix, a veteran of the War of 1812 and the American Civil War. Its primary mission was to train units for the American Expeditionary Forces deploying to the Western Front during World War I. Following the Armistice of 11 November 1918, it served as a demobilization center. The post was designated a permanent installation and renamed Fort Dix in 1939. During World War II, it expanded dramatically, functioning as a major reception and training center for the United States Army Air Forces and Army Ground Forces, processing millions of draftees through the Selective Service System. In the postwar era, it was a central hub for troops during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and later supported mobilization for operations like Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism. Its operational control was transferred to the United States Air Force in 2009 with the creation of Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst.

Facilities and operations

The installation encompasses over 31,000 acres adjacent to the Pinelands National Reserve. Its core facilities include extensive ranges for marksmanship and field training exercises, simulation centers, and barracks capable of housing thousands of personnel. It operates one of the busiest United States Army Reserve training centers under the 108th Training Command, preparing Individual Ready Reserve soldiers and units for deployment. The joint base infrastructure integrates its functions with the Air Mobility Command missions at McGuire Air Force Base and the Naval Air Systems Command activities at Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station. Key tenants include the New Jersey National Guard and various Department of Homeland Security agencies. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs also maintains a presence, providing transition services.

Environmental issues

Historical activities at the installation have led to significant environmental remediation efforts under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (Superfund). The United States Environmental Protection Agency has identified several contaminated areas, including former fire-training pits and landfill sites containing volatile organic compounds and other hazardous materials. A major groundwater plume containing tetrachloroethylene has been a long-term focus of cleanup operations coordinated with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. These efforts are managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers as part of the ongoing Base Realignment and Closure process. Monitoring and restoration of adjacent wetlands within the Pinelands National Reserve are also conducted.

The installation has been depicted in several films and television series, often as a setting for basic training or military life. It served as a filming location for segments of the award-winning television miniseries Band of Brothers. The 1997 film G.I. Jane, starring Demi Moore, featured scenes shot at the installation to depict United States Navy training. It is also referenced in episodes of the acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos, which is set in New Jersey. In literature, it is mentioned in works by veterans and in historical accounts of World War II mobilization.

Notable personnel

Many distinguished individuals have been stationed or trained at the installation. Celebrated actor and United States Army Air Forces pilot Jimmy Stewart completed his initial military induction processing here. Baseball legend and United States Army veteran Joe DiMaggio was stationed here during World War II. Noted film director Sam Fuller drew upon his experiences as a soldier here for his wartime films. Military figures include General John W. Vessey Jr., former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Medal of Honor recipient Alvin York, who visited the post during a war bond tour. Fictional portrayals of personnel from the installation appear in the works of novelist Kurt Vonnegut.

Category:United States Army posts Category:Buildings and structures in New Jersey