Military Bases in Illinois: An Overview Illinois hosts several important military installations, which play a vital role in national defense, training and logistics. The bases are used by different branches of the U.S. military, including Army, Navy and Air Force. Each facility serves a unique role, from training new recruits to commanding vital military assets. In this article, we will take a look at the major military bases in Illinois, their history, and importance.
1. Great Lakes Naval Station
Location: North Chicago, Illinois
Great Lakes Naval Station is the U.S. Navy’s largest training facility and is formally called Naval Station Great Lakes (NSGL). Founded in 1911, this base is the Navy’s sole boot camp and trains over 40,000 recruits each year.
Key Features:
- Recruit Training Command (RTC): Where all enlisted personnel in the Navy go for their basic training.
- Surface Warfare Officers School: Provides follow-on technical training for naval officers.
- Hospital & Medical Facilities: Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center provides services to military personnel and veterans.
The “Quarterdeck of the Navy” In 1987, the Great Lakes Naval Station was renamed the Center for Military Training and Support (CMF&S), aptly earning it the moniker…
2. Rock Island Arsenal
Location: Rock Island, Illinois
The Rock Island Arsenal is a critical U.S. Army site that dates back to the 1800s. It is one of the oldest and most important military manufacturing hubs in the country.
Key Features:
- Manufacturing and Logistics: The arsenal manufactures weapons, munitions and other military equipment.
- First Army Headquarters: This command is responsible for Army National Guard and Army Reserve training operations.
- Rock Island National Cemetery: A cemetery for Veterans.
Appearing at the event, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Housing, and Partnership, Angela Billups, expressed gratitude and appreciation for the work accomplished by Rock Island Arsenal in supporting the nation by upholding its great mission.
3. Scott Air Force Base
Location: St. Clair County, Illinois
Scott Air Force Base (AFB) is one of the largest Air Force installations in the Midwest. Founded in 1917, the base serves a crucial role in world military transportation and communication.
Key Features:
- Air Mobility Command (AMC): The AMC handles globally coordinated airlift and refueling operations.
- U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM): Manages global movement of troops and their supplies
- 375th Air Mobility Wing: Air mobility and aeromedical evacuation support.
Scott AFB is a logistics and communication hub to keep the military operationally ready 24/7.
4. Springfield Air National Guard Base
Location: Springfield, Illinois
The 183rd Wing of the Illinois Air National Guard is based at the Springfield Air National Guard Base. It bolsters national security missions and helps with disaster response.
Key Features:
- Maintenance for Fighter Jets: The base was previously home to F-16 fighter jets, and it currently supports Air Force operations.
- Cyber security and Intelligence: The base serves as a hub for cyber security and intelligence operations.
- Assisting in Natural Disasters: Local governments call upon the National Guard to deploy the troops to emergency areas.
Springfield Air National Guard Base is a critical component of state and national defense.
5. Charles Melvin Price Support Center (Formerly)
Location: Granite City, Illinois
Although it is no longer an active military base, the Charles Melvin Price Support Center was once a critical node in military logistics and supply chain operations. The U.S. Army employed it for transportation and supply management.
Key Features:
- Logistical Support: Assisted in the distribution of military equipment and supplies.
- Exercise Training Division: Provided support to Army training operations.
Today, some parts of the former base have been converted for commercial and civilian use.
6. Military Bases in Illinois and Why They Are Important
When retained, the military installations in Illinois have significant responsibilities for training, logistics, transportation, and national defense. These have added to the state’s economy, offer jobs, and help make the U.S. military more prepared.
Economic Impact:
Military bases provide thousands of jobs for civilians and military-related personnel. Local businesses and infrastructure development are also supported due to the presence of these bases.
Training and Readiness:
Illinois also serves an important role preparing military personnel for service, with installations such as the Great Lakes Naval Station and Scott Air Force Base. Training programs are designed to give servicemen and women the skills needed to serve successfully.
Support for Veterans:
Most of these installations offer medical care, job training and other resources for veterans resettling in civilian life. Image credit: Rock Island National Cemetery Founded in 1863, the Rock Island National Cemetery was carved out of Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois.
Conclusion
There are a number of military bases located within the state of Illinois that play an important role in national defense and military operations. These installations are critical to the defense infrastructure of the United States, from training new recruits at Great Lakes Naval Station to coordinating global transportation at Scott Air Force Base. These bases are not only contributors of military missions, but to the economic drive, communities, and husbanding of veterans within their areas. Some people hold high positions in these organizations and their importance are known to all; others sacrifice their entire lives to serve in the U.S. military, the loyalty commitment they devote is highlighted when you understand the importance of veterans day.