About this Unit
**USNR Fort McHenry** refers to U.S. Navy Reserve units associated with or stationed at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. Fort McHenry, famous for its role in the War of 1812, later served various military purposes, including as a training and administrative center for naval reservists. During the 20th century, particularly in World War II and the Cold War era, USNR units at Fort McHenry provided essential logistical, medical, and training support for naval operations. The reserve activities at Fort McHenry contributed to the readiness and augmentation of the U.S. Navy, drawing on the region’s longstanding maritime heritage. Today, the legacy of USNR Fort McHenry endures as a testament to Baltimore’s continued support for the nation’s naval forces.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Legacy: The USNR unit “Fort McHenry” is named after Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, famous for its defense during the War of 1812 and as the inspiration for the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner."
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Naval Reserve Center: The USNR Fort McHenry unit is based at the Naval Operations Support Center (NOSC) Baltimore, located near the historic fort, serving as a hub for Navy Reservists in the region.
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Historical Proximity: Members of the unit regularly participate in ceremonies and community events at Fort McHenry, strengthening ties between modern service members and the site’s storied past.
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Support Role: The unit provides trained sailors ready for mobilization in support of both peacetime and wartime operations, contributing to both local and national missions.
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Disaster Response: Sailors from USNR Fort McHenry have been mobilized for disaster relief efforts, notably helping during hurricanes and other emergencies along the East Coast.
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Joint Training: The unit frequently trains alongside other reserve and active duty components, including Army and Marine Corps units stationed in the Baltimore area.
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Commemorative Events: Each year, the unit participates in the annual Defenders’ Day celebration at Fort McHenry, commemorating the successful defense of the fort in 1814.
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Community Engagement: USNR Fort McHenry sailors engage with local schools and veteran organizations, sharing the history of the fort and the Navy Reserve’s mission.
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Historic Artifacts: The unit’s headquarters displays memorabilia and artifacts related to both the original fort and the Navy Reserve’s history, fostering a sense of tradition.
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Modern Readiness: As part of the broader Navy Reserve, USNR Fort McHenry has adapted to 21st-century challenges, including cyber operations and homeland security, while honoring its historical roots.
