Fort Bragg is a U.S. Army military installation located in North Carolina. It is one of the largest military bases in the world by population, housing over 52,000 military personnel.

What is the current name of the military installation previously known as Fort Bragg?

The military installation was renamed Fort Liberty in 2023, but the U.S. Army changed the name back to Fort Bragg in February 2025.

What is the area covered by Fort Bragg?

Fort Bragg covers more than 251 square miles (650 km²).

Which significant airborne division is stationed at Fort Bragg?

The 82nd Airborne Division is stationed at Fort Bragg.

What are the two airfields operated by Fort Bragg, and what are their primary functions?

Fort Bragg operates Pope Field, which supports U.S. Air Force global airlift and special operations units, and Simmons Army Airfield, which supports Army aviation units for airborne and special operations missions.

Who was Fort Bragg originally named after, and why was the name changed?

Fort Bragg was originally named after Confederate general Braxton Bragg. In 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense renamed it Fort Liberty due to controversy surrounding memorials to Confederate generals. In February 2025, the name was changed back to Fort Bragg, but in honor of World War II paratrooper Roland L. Bragg.

When was Camp Bragg established, and for what purpose?

Camp Bragg was established in 1918 as an artillery training ground, chosen for its suitable terrain, adequate water, rail facilities, and climate for year-round training.

What was the original plan for Camp Bragg after World War I?

The original plan was to station six artillery brigades at Camp Bragg, but this was abandoned after the war. The camp was reduced to two cantonments and intended to house Army troops and serve as a National Guard training center.

When did Camp Bragg officially become Fort Bragg, and what did this signify?

Camp Bragg was renamed Fort Bragg on September 30, 1922, signifying its transition to a permanent Army post.

How did the population of Fort Bragg change during World War II?

The population of Fort Bragg grew significantly during World War II, increasing from 5,400 in 1940 to 67,000 by 1941, and peaking at 159,000 during the war years.

What major deployments occurred from Fort Bragg in the 1980s?

In the 1980s, units from Fort Bragg were deployed to the Caribbean for operations in Grenada (1983), Honduras (1988), and Panama (1989).

What operations saw significant deployment of Fort Bragg units in the 1990s and early 2000s?

In 1990, the XVIII Airborne Corps and 82nd Airborne Division deployed for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Later, units experienced increased operations tempo due to campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq.

What changes were made to Fort Bragg's facilities in the mid-to-late 1990s?

During the mid-to-late 1990s, Fort Bragg saw modernization, including the removal of World War II wooden barracks, construction of a new main post exchange, and the opening of Devers Elementary School.

What was the impact of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission on Fort Bragg?

As a result of the 2005 BRAC Commission, Fort McPherson in Georgia closed, and U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and U.S. Army Reserve Command relocated their headquarters to Fort Bragg.

When was Pope Field absorbed into Fort Bragg?

Pope Field, formerly Pope Air Force Base, was absorbed into Fort Bragg on March 1, 2011.

What was the purpose of the Naming Commission established in 2021?

The Naming Commission was established to select new names for Department of Defense properties named in honor of Confederate officials, as Congress determined that those who sided with the Confederate Army were unworthy of being namesakes.

What was the recommended new name for Fort Bragg by the Naming Commission, and when was it officially adopted?

The Naming Commission recommended renaming Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty. The installation officially adopted this new name on June 2, 2023.

What was the estimated cost of the name change from Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty?

The change to Fort Liberty was calculated to cost the Department of Defense $6,374,230, making it the most expensive name change among the installations affected.

Who is Roland L. Bragg, and why is Fort Bragg being renamed in his honor?

Roland L. Bragg was a World War II paratrooper stationed at Fort Bragg who served with distinction in the European theater. He received the Silver Star and Purple Heart and was recognized for saving a fellow soldier's life. The Army is renaming the installation in his honor.

What is the estimated cost of the second name change, back to Fort Bragg?

The cost of the second name change, from Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg, is estimated to be between $6 million and $8 million.

What are the major commands currently stationed at Fort Bragg?

The major commands at Fort Bragg are the United States Army Forces Command, the United States Army Reserve Command, and the United States Army Special Operations Command.

Which specific elite units are stationed at Fort Bragg?

Notable units stationed at Fort Bragg include the 82nd Airborne Division, the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), and Delta Force, which is controlled by the Joint Special Operations Command.

What are the coordinates for Fort Bragg?

Fort Bragg is located at 35°8′21″N 78°59′57″W (35.139064, -78.999143).

What is the total area of Fort Bragg, and how is it divided between land and water?

Fort Bragg has a total area of 19.0 square miles (49.2 km²), with 19.0 square miles (49.1 km²) being land and 0.1 square miles (0.26 km²) being water, making water coverage 0.32% of the total area.

What is unique about the butterfly population at Fort Bragg?

Fort Bragg is the only known location for the endangered Saint Francis' satyr butterfly, which thrives in wetland habitats like abandoned beaver dams or along streams with beavers.

What is 'Fort Bragg fever'?

Fort Bragg fever is a bacterial zoonotic disease named after an outbreak that occurred at the installation in 1942.

How did the presence of the red-cockaded woodpecker affect training at Fort Bragg?

In 1990, the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker's presence led to training stoppages and range closures, requiring troops to temporarily relocate for training. Agreements were later made to implement training restrictions around the woodpecker's habitat.

What was the population of Fort Bragg according to the 2000 census?

As of the 2000 census, Fort Bragg had a population of 29,183 people, with 4,315 households and 4,215 families residing on the base.

What was the racial makeup of Fort Bragg in 2000?

In 2000, the racial makeup of Fort Bragg was 58.1% European American, 25.3% African-American, 1.2% Native American, 1.8% Asian, 0.9% Pacific Islander, 8.3% from other races, and 4.4% from two or more races. Additionally, 15.8% of the population identified as Hispanic or Latino.

What was the median age of the population at Fort Bragg in 2000?

The median age of the population at Fort Bragg in 2000 was 22 years, with a significantly higher male-to-female ratio (217.1 males per 100 females).

What issues have been reported regarding housing managed by Corvias at Fort Bragg?

Housing managed by Corvias at Fort Bragg has faced reports of lead contamination, black mold, and asbestos from base residents.

What was the issue with trash pickup at Fort Bragg in early 2024?

In February 2024, it was confirmed that trash pickup at Fort Bragg was not occurring in a timely manner, leading to overflowing dumpsters. The waste management contractor was terminated, and the garrison command prioritized trash collection at barracks, child development centers, dining facilities, and medical facilities.

Which educational system serves the dependents of staff at Fort Bragg?

Dependents of staff at Fort Bragg are educated by Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools for grades K-8.

Which local school districts serve high school students from Fort Bragg?

High school students from Fort Bragg attend local public schools in Cumberland County Schools or Hoke County Schools, depending on their residential area within the reservation.

What notable event involving Mickey Rooney occurred at Fort Bragg in 1942?

In January 1942, Mickey Rooney visited Fort Bragg to entertain the soldiers. He was later drafted and served in the Army until the end of World War II.

What significant event happened during President John F. Kennedy's visit to Fort Bragg in 1961?

During his visit on October 12, 1961, President John F. Kennedy visited Fort Bragg and the U.S. Army Special Warfare Center, and officially authorized the wear of the Green Beret.

What crime occurred at Fort Bragg involving Jeffrey R. MacDonald?

On February 17, 1970, Captain Jeffrey R. MacDonald murdered his wife and two daughters at Fort Bragg. These events were later detailed in the book and miniseries 'Fatal Vision'.

What was the Green Ramp disaster?

The Green Ramp disaster occurred on March 23, 1994, at Pope Air Force Base near Fort Bragg, when a C-130 aircraft crashed during an airborne training operation, killing 24 members of the 82nd Airborne Division and injuring over 100 others.

What incident involved the drug Mefloquine and soldiers stationed at Fort Bragg in 2002?

In 2002, there were several murders of military spouses by soldiers stationed at Fort Bragg. Legal representatives argued that the drug Mefloquine (Larium) was responsible for diminished mental capacity, but Pentagon and Army Medical Department investigations later attributed the murders to psychological problems.

What was the significance of the Fort Bragg Game in 2016?

On July 3, 2016, Fort Bragg hosted the first regular-season game of a professional sports league on an active military installation, featuring Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins. The game was played at the newly constructed Fort Bragg Stadium.

Which notable individuals are listed as having a connection to Fort Bragg?

Notable people associated with Fort Bragg include serial killer Joseph Edward Duncan, golfers Raymond Floyd, NFL players Chris Hanburger and Joe Morris, Army Lieutenant General Patricia Horoho, disability rights activist Stacey Milbern, actress Julianne Moore, Olympic athlete Passion Richardson, and retired Army General Hugh Shelton.

Where is actress Martha Raye buried?

Actress Martha Raye is buried at Fort Bragg in commemoration of her service with the USO during World War II and Vietnam.

What is the purpose of Pope Field?

Pope Field is used by the U.S. Air Force to station global airlift and special operations units, and it houses the Air Force Combat Control School.

What is the primary function of Simmons Army Airfield?

Simmons Army Airfield supports Army aviation units, specifically for airborne and special operations missions.

What is the XVIII Airborne Corps?

The XVIII Airborne Corps is a major tactical command of the U.S. Army, headquartered at Fort Bragg, specializing in airborne and air assault operations.

What is the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC)?

USASOC is the command responsible for overseeing the Army's special operations forces, including the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the 75th Ranger Regiment, and is headquartered at Fort Bragg.

What is the significance of the name change to Fort Liberty in 2023?

The name change to Fort Liberty in 2023 was part of a Department of Defense initiative to remove names honoring Confederate figures from military installations, reflecting a broader effort to rename bases that were named after Confederate leaders.

What is the significance of the name change back to Fort Bragg in 2025?

The renaming back to Fort Bragg in 2025 honors Roland L. Bragg, a World War II paratrooper, aligning with a directive to rename installations previously named after Confederate figures with namesakes who demonstrated valor and service.

What is the role of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg?

The 82nd Airborne Division, a major airborne infantry formation of the U.S. Army, is permanently stationed at Fort Bragg and is a key component of the XVIII Airborne Corps.

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Installation Overview

Strategic Importance

Fort Bragg, located in North Carolina, is a pivotal United States Army installation recognized globally for its scale and operational capacity. It serves as the primary home for the XVIII Airborne Corps and is the headquarters for the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, overseeing elite units such as the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the 75th Ranger Regiment. Its extensive acreage and strategic positioning underscore its critical role in national defense readiness.

Personnel and Infrastructure

With a military population exceeding 52,000 personnel, Fort Bragg ranks among the world's largest military bases. The installation encompasses over 251 square miles, featuring extensive training grounds and critical infrastructure. It hosts major commands including U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command, alongside vital medical facilities like Womack Army Medical Center. Fort Bragg also operates two key airfields: Pope Field, supporting Air Force airlift and special operations, and Simmons Army Airfield, dedicated to Army aviation.

Naming Evolution

Originally established in 1918 and named after Confederate general Braxton Bragg, the installation has undergone significant name changes reflecting evolving historical contexts. In 2023, it was renamed Fort Liberty by the U.S. Department of Defense to distance it from Confederate associations. Subsequently, in February 2025, the name reverted to Fort Bragg, but in honor of World War II paratrooper Roland L. Bragg, signifying a new historical commemoration.

Historical Trajectory

World War I & II Foundations

Established in 1918 as Camp Bragg, its initial purpose was artillery training. The site was selected for its suitable terrain, water resources, rail access, and favorable climate. Named after Braxton Bragg, the camp rapidly developed, though post-WWI cutbacks nearly led to its closure. It was officially designated Fort Bragg in 1922. During World War II, the installation experienced exponential growth, serving as a crucial training ground for numerous divisions, including the 82nd Airborne, and its population swelled significantly.

Cold War & Special Operations

Post-WWII, Fort Bragg became the permanent home of the 82nd Airborne Division and the reactivated XVIII Airborne Corps in 1951. It evolved into a center for unconventional warfare, establishing the Psychological Warfare Center in 1952 and hosting the 10th and 5th Special Forces Groups. Throughout the Cold War, units stationed here were frequently deployed for critical missions, including operations in Grenada, Honduras, and Panama, solidifying Fort Bragg's reputation as a hub for rapid deployment and specialized operations.

Modern Era & Name Changes

The post-WWII era saw continued expansion and modernization. Units from Fort Bragg played significant roles in operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, leading to increased operational tempo. In line with the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) recommendations, U.S. Army Forces Command and U.S. Army Reserve Command relocated to Fort Bragg. The installation's name underwent a significant transformation in 2023, becoming Fort Liberty, and later reverted to Fort Bragg in 2025, honoring Roland L. Bragg, a distinguished WWII paratrooper.

Key Tenant Units

XVIII Airborne Corps

The XVIII Airborne Corps, a high-readiness corps of the U.S. Army, is headquartered at Fort Bragg. It comprises multiple divisions and support brigades, including the renowned 82nd Airborne Division, the 18th Field Artillery Brigade, and the 20th Engineer Brigade, prepared for rapid global deployment.

Special Operations Command

Fort Bragg is the nerve center for the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC). This includes the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne), the 75th Ranger Regiment, the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command, and the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, all dedicated to specialized and unconventional warfare missions.

Supporting Commands

The installation also hosts major operational commands such as U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) and U.S. Army Reserve Command (USARC). Additionally, various specialized units, including medical, sustainment, military intelligence, and air defense brigades, are stationed here, contributing to the comprehensive operational capabilities of Fort Bragg.

Geographical Context

Terrain and Waterways

Fort Bragg spans approximately 251 square miles, primarily situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina. The landscape features diverse terrain, including sandy soils and numerous lakes and streams, such as Big Muddy Lake, which hosts a significant floating solar power installation. These natural features are managed for both military training and ecological preservation.

Ecological Significance

The installation's unique wetland habitats are critical for the survival of the endangered Saint Francis' satyr butterfly (Neonympha mitchellii francisci). Fort Bragg is the only known location for this species. Additionally, the installation's environment is associated with "Fort Bragg fever," a bacterial zoonotic disease, and has historically managed the habitat of the red-cockaded woodpecker, demonstrating a commitment to balancing military operations with conservation efforts.

Demographic Profile

Population Characteristics

As a military installation, Fort Bragg's demographics are heavily influenced by its service members and their families. Census data from 2000 indicated a population density typical of such bases, with a significant proportion of residents being young adults and children. The male-to-female ratio, skewed towards males, and the high percentage of households with children are characteristic features of a military community.

Housing and Income

Housing on Fort Bragg, managed by contractors, has faced scrutiny regarding maintenance and environmental concerns. The median household income reported in 2000 reflected the economic structure of a military base, with a notable percentage of the population living below the poverty line, a statistic often influenced by the transient nature and specific pay scales of military service.

Educational Facilities

Department of Defense Schools

Dependents of personnel stationed at Fort Bragg are primarily educated through the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). This system provides comprehensive K-8 education at several on-post schools, including Albritton Middle School, Bowley Elementary School, Devers Elementary School, and Kimberly Hampton Primary School, among others. These facilities are designed to support the unique needs of military families.

Local School Districts

For secondary education, students residing in areas of Fort Bragg assigned to Cumberland County attend public schools within the Cumberland County Schools district, notably EE Smith High School. Those in the Linden Oaks area, within Harnett County, are part of Harnett County Schools, with assignments to Overhills High School. This structure ensures continuity of education for families transitioning to the installation.

Notable Events & Milestones

Historical Occurrences

Fort Bragg has been the site of numerous significant events. Its history includes visits from notable figures like President John F. Kennedy, who formalized the wear of the Green Beret in 1961. The installation has also been associated with tragic incidents, such as the Green Ramp disaster in 1994, and high-profile legal cases. These events underscore the dynamic and often challenging environment of a major military installation.

Cultural and Sporting Engagements

Beyond its military functions, Fort Bragg has hosted significant cultural events. Notably, it was the venue for the first Major League Baseball regular-season game held in North Carolina in 2016, featuring the Atlanta Braves and Miami Marlins, attended primarily by military members. This event highlighted the base's role in community engagement and national morale.

Notable Associations

Military Leadership

Numerous distinguished military leaders have been associated with Fort Bragg throughout its history. Figures such as Lt. Gen. Hugh Shelton, who later served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho, the first female commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Command, have held significant commands at the installation, contributing to its strategic development and operational excellence.

Diverse Contributions

Beyond military personnel, Fort Bragg has been linked to individuals from various fields. This includes acclaimed actress Julianne Moore, professional golfer Raymond Floyd, and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Chris Hanburger. The base has also been associated with prominent activists like Stacey Milbern, reflecting a broad spectrum of individuals connected to the installation's community and history.

Honored Burials

Martha Raye

The renowned actress and entertainer Martha Raye is interred at Fort Bragg. Her burial there serves as a tribute to her extensive service and dedication to entertaining U.S. troops during World War II and the Vietnam War through her work with the USO. Her final resting place on the installation signifies the deep bond between the entertainment community and the military.

Related Information

Further Exploration

For a more comprehensive understanding of Fort Bragg's multifaceted role and history, further resources are available. These include detailed accounts of its specific units, associated historical sites like the Special Warfare Memorial Statue, nearby military facilities such as Pope Field and Camp Mackall, and the broader context of U.S. Army operations and logistics.

References

Source Material

The content presented on this page is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on Fort Bragg. The specific citations and source details are managed programmatically.

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References

Passion Richardson. Sports Reference. Retrieved on 2013-11-30.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Fort Bragg Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not official military guidance or advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for official U.S. Army documentation or consultation with qualified military or defense professionals. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information regarding military installations and operations.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Fort Bragg: A Legacy of American Military Readiness

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Installation Overview 🎖️

🇺🇸 Strategic Importance

👥 Personnel and Infrastructure

📅 Naming Evolution

Historical Trajectory ⏳

⚔️ World War I & II Foundations

Cold War Cold War & Special Operations

🌍 Modern Era & Name Changes

Key Tenant Units 🪖

✈️ XVIII Airborne Corps

🚁 Special Operations Command

🏢 Supporting Commands

Geographical Context 🗺️

🌳 Terrain and Waterways

🦋 Ecological Significance

Demographic Profile 📊

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Population Characteristics

🏠 Housing and Income

Educational Facilities 📚

🏫 Department of Defense Schools

🎓 Local School Districts

Notable Events & Milestones 💥

📜 Historical Occurrences

🏅 Cultural and Sporting Engagements

Notable Associations 👤

🎖️ Military Leadership

🌟 Diverse Contributions

Honored Burials 🕊️

🌟 Martha Raye

Related Information 🔗

➡️ Further Exploration

References 📚

📄 Source Material

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Installation Overview

Strategic Importance

Personnel and Infrastructure

Naming Evolution

Historical Trajectory

World War I & II Foundations

Cold War & Special Operations

Modern Era & Name Changes

Key Tenant Units

XVIII Airborne Corps

Special Operations Command

Supporting Commands

Geographical Context

Terrain and Waterways

Ecological Significance

Demographic Profile

Population Characteristics

Housing and Income

Educational Facilities

Department of Defense Schools

Local School Districts

Notable Events & Milestones

Historical Occurrences

Cultural and Sporting Engagements

Notable Associations

Military Leadership

Diverse Contributions

Honored Burials

Martha Raye

Related Information

Further Exploration

References

Source Material

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice