About this Unit
Kenner Army Hospital, located at Fort Lee, Virginia, was established in 1941 as the United States prepared for World War II. Initially constructed as a temporary medical facility, it rapidly expanded during the war to care for wounded soldiers returning from overseas. The hospital continued its mission through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing medical support to military personnel and their families. In 2011, Kenner Army Hospital was re-designated as Kenner Army Health Clinic, transitioning from a full-service hospital to an outpatient clinic as part of Army medical restructuring efforts.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: Kenner Army Hospital was established during World War II at Fort Lee, Virginia, in 1941, originally as a temporary medical facility to support the rapidly expanding military base.
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Named After a Medical Pioneer: The hospital is named in honor of Major General Albert W. Kenner, a decorated U.S. Army medical officer who served as Chief Medical Officer for the European Theater during World War II.
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Rapid Construction: The original Kenner Hospital was constructed in just 90 days, a testament to the urgency of wartime mobilization and the U.S. Army’s engineering capabilities.
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Post-War Expansion: After World War II, Kenner Army Hospital expanded its facilities and services to care for veterans and the growing military community at Fort Lee.
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Vietnam War Support: During the Vietnam War, Kenner Army Hospital played a key role in supporting the medical needs of soldiers returning from overseas deployments.
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Modernization: In 1962, a new, modern hospital building was opened, replacing the original World War II-era structures and greatly expanding the hospital’s capacity.
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Community Outreach: Kenner Army Hospital was known for its outreach programs, including medical training, immunizations, and health education for both military personnel and local civilians.
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Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC): As part of the 1995 BRAC process, Kenner Army Hospital was downsized to an outpatient clinic in 1996, with inpatient services shifting to other military medical centers.
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Disaster Response: The hospital provided critical support during natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, serving as a medical hub for both military and civilian emergency response.
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Legacy of Training: Kenner Army Hospital was a primary site for the training of Army medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and medics, who would go on to serve in conflicts around the world.
