Basic training Fort McClellan

• Historic Origins: Fort McClellan, located near Anniston, Alabama, was first established in 1917 as Camp McClellan to train troops for World War I. • Women's Army Corps: Fort McClellan served as the home of the Women's Army Corps (WAC) from 1952 to 1977, where thousands of women underwent basic and advanced training. • Chemical Corps Training: The U.S. Army Chemical Corps School relocated to Fort McClellan in 1951, making it the primary training site for chemical warfare defense until its closure. • Military Police Excellence: The U.S. Army Military Police School operated at Fort McClellan from 1975 to 1999, turning out generations of MPs with specialized training. • Vietnam War Era: During the Vietnam War, Fort McClellan was a major basic training site, processing and training tens of thousands of new recruits. • Large-Scale Maneuvers: In World War II, the fort was the site of massive training exercises, including mock battles, that prepared soldiers for combat in Europe and the Pacific. • Environmental Legacy: After its closure, Fort McClellan became the subject of environmental cleanup efforts due to contamination from chemical training and industrial activities. • Deactivation and Legacy: The base was closed in 1999 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, but its training legacy continues through veterans and alumni associations. • Haunted Reputation: Stories persist of ghostly encounters and paranormal activity reported by soldiers and staff, especially in the older barracks and training areas. • Iron Mountain: The fort is located at the base of Choccolocco Mountain, known as "Iron Mountain," which provided a dramatic backdrop for training and maneuvers.