ABOUT HARMONY CHURCH, FORT BENNING
- Origins of Harmony Church: The name "Harmony Church" comes from a small rural church that originally stood on the land before the military acquired it for training purposes during World War II.
- World War II Expansion: Harmony Church was rapidly developed in 1941-1942 as part of Fort Benning’s massive expansion to train troops for the war, featuring hundreds of temporary wooden barracks and support buildings.
- Home of the Infantry: Harmony Church became the primary training area for the U.S. Army Infantry School, accommodating thousands of new recruits and officers.
- Infamous Sand Hill Rivalry: Soldiers often compare Harmony Church with "Sand Hill," another Fort Benning training area, each claiming their own is tougher or more authentic—fueling a friendly rivalry among trainees.
- Ranger Training Birthplace: The first U.S. Army Ranger training classes (later formalized as Ranger School) were held at Harmony Church in the late 1940s and early 1950s.
- Armor School Relocation: In 2011, the U.S. Army Armor School moved from Fort Knox to Fort Benning, with Harmony Church serving as the new home for armored vehicle training and the Armor Basic Officer Leader Course.
- Historic Black Units: During World War II, several segregated African American infantry units trained at Harmony Church, playing a significant role in the eventual desegregation of the U.S. Army.
- Ghost Stories: Soldiers and staff have reported sightings of apparitions and strange occurrences at Harmony Church, with some attributing them to the area's long history and the original church site.
- Film Appearances: Portions of the 1986 movie "Heartbreak Ridge" were filmed at Harmony Church, taking advantage of its authentic military environment and training areas.
- Modernization: While many of the original wooden barracks have been replaced, remnants of World War II-era structures can still be found, and Harmony Church remains a vital training hub for both infantry and armor soldiers.