About this Unit
Fort Ord was a major United States Army post located on the Monterey Bay in California, established in 1917 as a training ground for field artillery and cavalry units. During World War II, Fort Ord expanded rapidly, becoming a key training center for infantry divisions preparing for combat in the Pacific Theater. After the war, the post continued to serve as a major training facility, most notably as home to the 7th Infantry Division. Fort Ord was officially closed in 1994 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, with much of its land now serving as a national monument and educational site.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1917: Fort Ord, located on California’s Monterey Bay, was originally created in 1917 as a military training base known as the “Gigling Reservation.”
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WWII Expansion: During World War II, Fort Ord became one of the largest military training bases in the United States, processing more than 1.5 million troops.
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Home of the 7th Infantry Division: The 7th Infantry Division was stationed at Fort Ord for several decades, playing a key role in the base’s history.
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Vietnam War Training: Many soldiers who served in the Vietnam War underwent basic and advanced training at Fort Ord during the 1960s and 1970s.
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Women’s Army Corps: In 1948, the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) established a presence at Fort Ord, marking a significant step in military gender integration.
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Environmental Legacy: After its closure, Fort Ord became one of the largest Superfund cleanup sites in the U.S. due to unexploded ordnance and toxic waste left behind.
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Fort Ord Closure: The base was closed in 1994 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) initiative, affecting over 25,000 military and civilian personnel.
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Fort Ord National Monument: In 2012, President Barack Obama designated much of the former base as the Fort Ord National Monument, preserving over 14,000 acres for public use and wildlife habitat.
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Historic Buildings: Several of Fort Ord’s historic buildings, including World War II-era wooden barracks, are still standing and are preserved as part of the region’s heritage.
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Cultural Impact: The base influenced popular culture, including being featured in the 1987 film “Full Metal Jacket,” where scenes depicting Marine training were inspired by Fort Ord’s facilities.
