About this Unit
Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, originally established in 1918 as U.S. Army General Hospital No. 21 in Aurora, Colorado, was created in response to the influenza pandemic and to treat soldiers with tuberculosis. Renamed in 1920 to honor Lt. William T. Fitzsimons, the first American medical officer killed in World War I, the facility became a leading center for respiratory disease care and military medicine. During World War II, Fitzsimons expanded significantly, serving thousands of wounded service members and training medical personnel. The center continued its role in military and veteran care throughout the Cold War before closing as an Army facility in 1999.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: Fitzsimons Army Medical Center was established in 1918 in Aurora, Colorado, originally as Army Hospital No. 21, to treat soldiers suffering from tuberculosis during and after World War I.
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Named after a Hero: The hospital was named in honor of Lieutenant William T. Fitzsimons, the first American medical officer killed in action during World War I, in France in 1917.
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Iconic Main Building: The main building, built in 1941, is a landmark art deco structure known for its imposing central tower, which became a symbol of the hospital and the surrounding community.
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President Eisenhower’s Recovery: In 1955, President Dwight D. Eisenhower was hospitalized at Fitzsimons following a heart attack. He spent seven weeks recovering there, bringing national attention to the facility.
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Leading Tuberculosis Care: For decades, Fitzsimons was renowned for its advanced research and treatment of tuberculosis, playing a key role in the fight against the disease in the United States.
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World War II Expansion: During World War II, the hospital expanded dramatically, at one point housing over 3,000 beds and serving as a major treatment and rehabilitation center for wounded soldiers.
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Medical Innovation: Fitzsimons Army Medical Center was a site of numerous medical innovations, including advancements in pulmonary medicine and the development of specialized treatments for soldiers.
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Training and Education: The center served as a training ground for thousands of Army medics, nurses, and doctors, including specialized programs in tropical medicine and burn care.
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Closure and Legacy: The hospital was closed in 1996 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. Its campus is now the site of the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.
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Historic Recognition: The Fitzsimons building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring the preservation of its unique architectural and historical significance.
