basic training FT LEWIS WASHINGTON

• Historic Legacy: Fort Lewis, now part of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), was established in 1917 and quickly became a major training center for soldiers heading to World War I. • Camp Lewis Origins: The original name was Camp Lewis, named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. • Massive Land Donation: The land for the base was donated by Pierce County citizens, totaling over 70,000 acres, making it one of the largest such gifts in U.S. history. • World War II Training Hub: During WWII, Fort Lewis trained and deployed tens of thousands of soldiers, including the 3rd Infantry Division and the 33rd Infantry Division. • Famous Graduates: Many notable military leaders began their careers at Fort Lewis, including General Omar Bradley. • Basic Training Diversity: Fort Lewis hosted basic training for not only Army but also Women’s Army Corps (WAC) units during WWII. • Vietnam War Preparations: The 9th Infantry Division, reactivated at Fort Lewis in 1966, trained here before deploying to Vietnam. • Evergreen Training Grounds: The surrounding Pacific Northwest forests and terrain provide unique training environments, including wet weather and dense woodland operations. • Ghost Stories: Soldiers have reported haunted barracks and strange occurrences, especially in the oldest parts of the base, adding to its mystique. • Modern Joint Operations: In 2010, Fort Lewis merged with McChord Air Force Base to form JBLM, making it a key site for joint Army-Air Force training and deployment operations.