18 Military Facilities In Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide To Mustsee Bases

A Journey Through Virginia’s Military History

Virginia, a state rich in history and tradition, boasts a significant military presence with numerous bases and facilities that have played vital roles in the nation’s defense. From iconic landmarks to cutting-edge research centers, these military installations offer a glimpse into the past, present, and future of America’s armed forces. Join us as we explore 18 of Virginia’s must-see military bases, each with its unique story and contribution to the nation’s security.

Fort Belvoir

Location: Fort Belvoir, Virginia

Fort Belvoir, located in Fairfax County, is one of the oldest and largest bases in the U.S. Army. Established in 1912, it has a long and distinguished history, serving as a key logistics and support hub during both World Wars. Today, Fort Belvoir is a diverse and modern military community, home to various military commands and agencies.

Key Attractions:

• National Museum of the United States Army: This state-of-the-art museum showcases the Army’s history, missions, and achievements. It features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, offering visitors an immersive experience.
• Washington Memorial Chapel: A historic chapel built in memory of George Washington, it is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. The chapel serves as a place of worship and reflection for the military community.
• Fort Belvoir Community Hospital: A modern medical facility providing comprehensive healthcare services to active-duty service members, retirees, and their families.

Joint Base Langley-Eustis

Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia

Joint Base Langley-Eustis, formed by the merger of Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis, is a strategic military installation with a rich aviation history. Langley Air Force Base, established in 1916, was one of the first military airfields in the U.S., while Fort Eustis has a long tradition of transportation and logistics support.

Key Attractions:

• Aviation History: Visit the historic Langley Air Force Base, home to the 1st Fighter Wing, one of the oldest fighter wings in the Air Force. Explore the base’s aviation heritage and see vintage aircraft on display.
• U.S. Army Transportation Museum: Located at Fort Eustis, this museum showcases the Army’s transportation history, featuring vehicles, boats, and artifacts used in various military operations.
• Joint Base Langley-Eustis Visitor Center: A great starting point for visitors, offering information and resources about the base’s history, missions, and current operations.

Naval Station Norfolk

Location: Norfolk, Virginia

Naval Station Norfolk is the largest naval base in the world, serving as the headquarters for the U.S. Fleet Forces Command and the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. With a long and proud history, the base has been a vital asset for the Navy’s operations and a major economic driver for the region.

Key Attractions:

• Norfolk Naval Shipyard: One of the oldest and most significant shipyards in the U.S., it has been repairing and modernizing naval vessels since 1767. Visitors can learn about the shipyard’s rich history and its crucial role in maintaining the Navy’s fleet.
• Naval Station Norfolk Museum: A small but informative museum that highlights the base’s history and its impact on the Navy’s operations.
• Naval Aviation Monument Park: A tribute to naval aviation, featuring sculptures, plaques, and artifacts honoring the brave men and women who served in naval aviation.

Marine Corps Base Quantico

Location: Quantico, Virginia

Marine Corps Base Quantico is a historic and renowned military installation, serving as the “Crossroads of the Marine Corps.” Established in 1917, it has played a crucial role in the training and development of Marine Corps personnel. Quantico is also known for its role in investigative and intelligence operations.

Key Attractions:

• National Museum of the Marine Corps: A world-class museum dedicated to the history and heritage of the U.S. Marine Corps. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view artifacts, and gain a deeper understanding of the Marine Corps’ legacy.
• Marine Corps University: A prestigious academic institution that provides advanced education and training to Marine Corps officers and personnel. Visitors can learn about the university’s role in shaping the future leaders of the Marine Corps.
• Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools: These schools offer specialized training in various support functions, ensuring that Marines are equipped with the skills needed for modern warfare.

Fort Lee

Location: Prince George County, Virginia

Fort Lee is the U.S. Army’s home of Sustainment, a critical installation focused on logistics, combat support, and sustainment operations. Established in 1917, Fort Lee has a rich history and a vital role in supporting the Army’s missions worldwide.

Key Attractions:

• U.S. Army Women’s Museum: This unique museum honors the contributions and sacrifices of women in the U.S. Army throughout history. It showcases artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories, highlighting the vital role of women in the military.
• Fort Lee Museum: A small but informative museum that showcases the base’s history and its role in logistics and supply operations.
• Quartermaster Heritage Center: A living history museum that brings to life the Quartermaster Corps’ history and missions. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and see historical artifacts and vehicles.

Naval Air Station Oceana

Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia

Naval Air Station Oceana is a major naval aviation base, home to numerous fighter squadrons and a critical asset for the U.S. Navy. Established in 1940, Oceana has a long and distinguished history, playing a crucial role in naval aviation operations.

Key Attractions:

• Aviation Heritage: Visitors can explore the base’s aviation history, including the iconic F-14 Tomcat and the F/A-18 Hornet. See these legendary aircraft up close and learn about their role in naval aviation.
• Naval Aviation Monument: A striking monument honoring the brave men and women who served in naval aviation. It features a sculpture and plaques recognizing their sacrifices and achievements.
• Navy Exchange and Commissary: Visitors can shop at these military-exclusive stores, offering a range of products and services for military personnel and their families.

Fort A.P. Hill

Location: Caroline County, Virginia

Fort A.P. Hill is a large military training area, covering over 76,000 acres of land. Established in 1941, it has been a key training ground for military personnel, offering a diverse range of training opportunities.

Key Attractions:

• Training Areas: Visitors can witness military training exercises and see the base’s vast training areas, which include live-fire ranges, maneuver areas, and urban training complexes.
• Museum and Historical Exhibits: The base features a museum and historical exhibits that showcase the base’s history and its role in military training.
• Outdoor Recreation: Fort A.P. Hill offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the base while learning about its military significance.

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

Location: Havelock, North Carolina (near Virginia)

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is a critical air station, supporting a wide range of aviation operations. Established in 1941, it has been a vital asset for the Marine Corps, providing air support and transportation for ground troops.

Key Attractions:

• Aviation Operations: Visitors can witness the busy aviation operations at Cherry Point, including the takeoff and landing of various aircraft, such as the MV-22 Osprey and the F/A-18 Hornet.
• Aviation Heritage Park: A park dedicated to the history of aviation at Cherry Point, featuring static displays of aircraft and interactive exhibits.
• Air Station Museum: A museum that showcases the air station’s history and its role in supporting Marine Corps aviation. Visitors can learn about the air station’s missions and the aircraft it operates.

Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Location: Portsmouth, Virginia

Norfolk Naval Shipyard, also known as the Norfolk Navy Yard, is one of the oldest and most significant shipyards in the U.S. Navy. Established in 1767, it has played a crucial role in maintaining and modernizing the Navy’s fleet.

Key Attractions:

• Shipyard Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the shipyard, learning about its history and the complex process of ship repair and modernization.
• Historical Exhibits: The shipyard features exhibits and displays that showcase its rich history, including the role it played in the American Revolution and the Civil War.
• Modern Ship Repair Facilities: Visitors can see the state-of-the-art ship repair facilities, where skilled workers maintain and upgrade naval vessels, ensuring their readiness for operations.

Camp Peary

Location: Williamsburg, Virginia

Camp Peary, often referred to as “The Farm,” is a highly secure and secretive military installation. It is primarily known for its role in training intelligence operatives for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The base’s operations and activities are shrouded in secrecy, adding to its mysterious allure.

Key Attractions:

• Limited Access: Due to the sensitive nature of Camp Peary’s operations, access is highly restricted. Visitors may not be able to access the base itself, but they can learn about its history and importance through various sources and media.
• CIA Museum: While not located at Camp Peary, the CIA Museum in Langley, Virginia, offers insights into the agency’s history and operations. Visitors can explore exhibits and artifacts related to intelligence gathering and espionage.
• Williamsburg’s Historical Attractions: While Camp Peary itself may be off-limits, visitors can explore the nearby city of Williamsburg, known for its rich colonial history and historical attractions.

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

Location: Jacksonville, North Carolina (near Virginia)

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world, serving as the primary training and deployment center for the II Marine Expeditionary Force. Established in 1942, it has a long and distinguished history, playing a vital role in the Marine Corps’ operations.

Key Attractions:

• Marine Corps Air Station New River: Located within Camp Lejeune, this air station supports a wide range of aviation operations, including helicopter and tiltrotor aircraft. Visitors can witness the busy aviation activities and see various aircraft up close.
• Amphibious Training: Camp Lejeune is known for its extensive amphibious training areas, where Marines train for beach landings and other water-based operations. Visitors can observe these training exercises and learn about the unique capabilities of the Marine Corps.
• Military History Museum: The base features a museum that showcases the history of Camp Lejeune and the Marine Corps’ involvement in various conflicts and operations. Visitors can explore exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories of Marines who served at Camp Lejeune.

Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall

Location: Arlington, Virginia

Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is a unique military installation, home to the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, also known as “The Old Guard.” It is located in the heart of Arlington, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.

Key Attractions:

• The Old Guard: Visitors can witness the precision and discipline of “The Old Guard,” one of the Army’s most prestigious units. They can attend changing of the guard ceremonies and learn about the unit’s rich history and traditions.
• Arlington National Cemetery: While not officially part of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington National Cemetery is located within its boundaries. Visitors can pay their respects at this hallowed ground, where America’s military heroes are laid to rest.
• Iwo Jima Memorial: Also known as the Marine Corps War Memorial, this iconic statue pays tribute to the brave Marines who raised the flag on Iwo Jima during World War II. It is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by U.S. service members.

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Location: Bethesda, Maryland (near Virginia)

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center is a world-class medical facility, providing comprehensive healthcare services to active-duty service members, retirees, and their families. It is named after Major Walter Reed, a U.S. Army physician who made significant contributions to the understanding of yellow fever.

Key Attractions:

• Medical Excellence: Visitors can learn about the cutting-edge medical research and treatment happening at Walter Reed. The center is at the forefront of military medicine, offering advanced care and innovative therapies.
• Walter Reed Army Institute of Research: This research institute focuses on military-related health issues, including infectious diseases, mental health, and combat casualty care. Visitors can explore its contributions to military medicine and learn about ongoing research projects.
• National Museum of Health and Medicine: Located on the grounds of Walter Reed, this museum showcases the history of military medicine, featuring exhibits on medical innovations, battlefield medicine, and the human body.

Dahlgren Naval Surface Warfare Center

Location: King George County, Virginia

Dahlgren Naval Surface Warfare Center is a major research and development facility, specializing in naval weapons systems and technology. Established in 1918, it has played a crucial role in advancing naval warfare capabilities.

Key Attractions:

• Research and Development: Visitors can learn about the center’s cutting-edge research and development efforts, including the testing and evaluation of naval weapons systems.
• Weapons Systems Exhibits: The center features exhibits and displays that showcase the evolution of naval weapons, from early cannons to modern missile systems.
• Dahlgren Heritage Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Dahlgren Naval Surface Warfare Center and its contributions to naval warfare. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and learn about the center’s role in shaping modern naval technology.

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

Location: Springfield, Virginia

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is a highly specialized intelligence agency, providing geospatial intelligence in support of national security. It plays a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting geospatial data to inform decision-making and military operations.

Key Attractions:

• Geospatial Intelligence: Visitors can learn about the importance of geospatial intelligence and its applications in national security. The NGA offers insights into how geospatial data is collected, analyzed, and used to support military and intelligence operations.
• NGA Museum: While access to the NGA Museum is restricted, visitors can explore online resources and exhibits that showcase the agency’s history and its role in geospatial intelligence.
• Geospatial Technology Demonstrations: The NGA occasionally hosts events and demonstrations that showcase its cutting-edge geospatial technology and its applications in various fields, including military operations and disaster response.

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

Location: Twentynine Palms, California (near Virginia)

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms is the Marine Corps’ premier training facility, covering over 972 square miles of desert terrain. It is the largest base in the Marine Corps and serves as the primary training ground for air-ground combat integration.

Key Attractions:

• Air-Ground Combat Training: Visitors can witness the intense air-ground combat training exercises at Twentynine Palms, where Marines train in a challenging desert environment.
• Museum and Historical Exhibits: The base features a museum and historical exhibits that showcase the history of the Marine Corps and its role in various conflicts. Visitors can learn about the evolution of Marine Corps tactics and equipment.
• Desert Warfare Training: Twentynine Palms offers unique desert warfare training opportunities, including live-fire exercises and urban warfare simulations. Visitors can see how Marines train to operate in extreme desert conditions.

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads

Location: Hampton, Virginia

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads is a critical support facility, providing a range of services and resources to support naval operations in the region. It is located in the heart of Hampton Roads, a major hub for the U.S. Navy.

Key Attractions:

• Naval Operations Support: Visitors can learn about the various support functions provided by Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, including logistics, administration, and personnel support.
• Naval History: The base features exhibits and displays that showcase the history of the U.S. Navy in the Hampton Roads area, including its role in World War II and the Cold War.
• Navy Exchange and Commissary: Visitors can shop at these military-exclusive stores, offering a wide range of products and services for naval personnel and their families.

Final Thoughts

Virginia’s military bases and facilities offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s military history, present, and future. From iconic landmarks to cutting-edge research centers, these installations showcase the dedication, sacrifice, and innovation of America’s armed forces. Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply curious, exploring these must-see bases will provide a deeper understanding of the vital role Virginia plays in the nation’s defense.

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