About this Unit
Fort Sill, located in southwest Oklahoma, was established in 1869 during the Indian Wars to protect settlers and serve as a base for military campaigns against the Southern Plains tribes. Named after Brigadier General Joshua W. Sill, the fort played a pivotal role in the settlement of the American West and later became home to legendary figures like Geronimo and Buffalo Soldier regiments. In the 20th century, Fort Sill evolved into the premier training center for the U.S. Army’s Field Artillery branch, earning the moniker "Home of the Field Artillery." Today, it continues to serve as a vital training and operational hub, supporting both Field Artillery and Air Defense Artillery missions for the U.S. Army.
Historical Facts
• Founded in 1869: Fort Sill was established by Major General Philip H. Sheridan during the Indian Wars, originally to stop raiding by Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache tribes in the region.
• Namesake: The fort is named after Brigadier General Joshua W. Sill, a Union officer who was killed during the Battle of Stones River in the American Civil War.
• Geronimo's Imprisonment: The famous Apache leader Geronimo spent his final years as a prisoner at Fort Sill until his death in 1909. He is buried at the fort's Apache Prisoner of War Cemetery.
• Home of the Field Artillery: Fort Sill has been the home of the U.S. Army Field Artillery School since 1911, earning it the nickname "The Fires Center of Excellence."
• World War II Training Ground: During World War II, Fort Sill trained more than 1.2 million soldiers, including the famed 45th Infantry Division, known as the “Thunderbirds.”
• Buffalo Soldiers: The fort was home to the Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry, one of the first African American regiments in the U.S. Army.
• Missile Testing: Fort Sill played a key role during the Cold War in the development and testing of early U.S. missile systems, including the Honest John rocket and Pershing missiles.
• National Historic Landmark: In 1960, Fort Sill was declared a National Historic Landmark for its significance in military and Native American history.
• Firsts for Women: In 1978, Fort Sill became the first Army post to train both male and female soldiers together when the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course integrated women.
• Modern Defense Hub: Today, Fort Sill remains an essential center for training in air defense artillery, hosting the Army’s Air Defense Artillery School and advanced missile defense systems.
