About this Unit
Fort Bliss, located in El Paso, Texas, was established in 1849 to provide protection for settlers and travelers in the region. Over the decades, it played a pivotal role during the Indian Wars, the Mexican Revolution, and both World Wars as a training and deployment center. During the Cold War, Fort Bliss became the home of the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery, hosting advanced missile and air defense training. Today, it remains a major installation, supporting the 1st Armored Division and serving as a hub for joint military operations, testing, and modernization efforts.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1849: Fort Bliss was founded in 1849, making it one of the oldest U.S. Army posts still in operation, originally established to protect settlers and travelers along the El Paso del Norte region.
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Largest Maneuver Area in the U.S.: Fort Bliss covers over 1.12 million acres, making it the second-largest military installation in the United States, with vast training ranges extending into New Mexico.
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Home of the 1st Armored Division: After relocating from Germany in 2011, the 1st Armored Division, known as “Old Ironsides,” is headquartered at Fort Bliss, making it a critical center for armored warfare training.
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World War II German POW Camp: During World War II, Fort Bliss housed German prisoners of war. The camp supported up to 1,250 POWs at its peak.
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Missile Testing and Development: Fort Bliss played a crucial role in early U.S. missile and rocket programs, including the training and employment of German rocket scientists like Wernher von Braun after Operation Paperclip.
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Anti-Aircraft and Air Defense Hub: Fort Bliss served as the center for anti-aircraft artillery training during World War II and later became the home of the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery Center.
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Buffalo Soldiers’ Legacy: The famous African-American regiments known as Buffalo Soldiers were stationed at Fort Bliss in the late 1800s, playing a significant role in the military history of the American Southwest.
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El Paso’s Economic Impact: Fort Bliss is the largest employer in the El Paso region, contributing billions of dollars annually to the local economy and supporting tens of thousands of military and civilian jobs.
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Historic Buildings: The post contains several historic buildings, including the Old Fort Bliss, constructed in the 1850s out of adobe, which is preserved as a museum.
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Border Security Operations: Due to its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, Fort Bliss has often supported border security and humanitarian missions, highlighting its strategic importance in national defense.
