Basic Training Ft. Benning

• 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. • Birthplace of Airborne Training: In 1940, Fort Benning established the first Parachute Test Platoon, making it the birthplace of U.S. Army Airborne training. • 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. • 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. • Hollywood Connections: The base has been featured in numerous films and documentaries, including "The Benning Story" and "We Were Soldiers," highlighting its historical significance. • Massive Training Grounds: Fort Benning spans over 182,000 acres, providing diverse terrains used for realistic training exercises, including forests, rivers, and urban environments. • Famous Graduates: Many notable military leaders trained at Benning, such as General Colin Powell and General George S. Patton. • 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. • 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. • 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.