Fort Ord

• 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.” • 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. • 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. • Vietnam War Training: Many soldiers who served in the Vietnam War underwent basic and advanced training at Fort Ord during the 1960s and 1970s. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.