About this Unit
Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, has served as a cornerstone of U.S. Army training since its establishment in 1918. Originally created to prepare troops for World War I, Fort Benning evolved into the primary site for Infantry and Armor Basic Combat Training. Over the decades, it has shaped millions of Soldiers, instilling discipline, physical fitness, and foundational combat skills. Today, Fort Benning—now part of Fort Moore—continues its legacy as a premier training center, adapting to the changing needs of the modern Army.
Historical Facts
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Home of the Infantry: Fort Benning has been known as the "Home of the Infantry" since its founding in 1918. It is the primary training location for U.S. Army infantry soldiers.
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Birthplace of Airborne Training: In 1940, Fort Benning established the first Parachute Test Platoon, making it the birthplace of U.S. Army Airborne training.
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Historic World War II Role: During World War II, Fort Benning trained over 100,000 troops annually, playing a pivotal role in preparing soldiers for combat.
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Integration of Women: In 2015, Fort Benning became the first site where female soldiers completed the Army's elite Ranger School, breaking a significant gender barrier.
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Hollywood Connections: The base has been featured in numerous films and documentaries, including "The Benning Story" and "We Were Soldiers," highlighting its historical significance.
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Massive Training Grounds: Fort Benning spans over 182,000 acres, providing diverse terrains used for realistic training exercises, including forests, rivers, and urban environments.
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Famous Graduates: Many notable military leaders trained at Benning, such as General Colin Powell and General George S. Patton.
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National Infantry Museum: Located adjacent to the base, the National Infantry Museum preserves the history of the U.S. infantry and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
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Tradition of the “Turning Blue” Ceremony: Upon completing infantry basic training, soldiers receive the Infantry Blue Cord in a ceremony symbolizing their entry into the infantry brotherhood.
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Modernization and Name Change: In 2023, as part of a Department of Defense initiative, Fort Benning was renamed Fort Moore, honoring Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife Julia, both legends in military history.
