Fort Drum Soldier: Latest News & Updates

Fort Drum, located in Jefferson County, New York, is a U.S. Army installation that serves as the home of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry). The post, established in 1941, has played a significant role in the history of the U.S. Army, particularly in the development of mountain warfare tactics and training. Today, Fort Drum is not only a vital military base but also a significant economic driver for the surrounding region.

History of Fort Drum

Fort Drum. Captured by the Japanese the US Retook it by Pouring Gasoline Inside & Setting it Alight, No Survivors | War History Online

Originally known as Camp Drum, the installation was named after Brigadier General William V. Drum, a veteran of the Mexican-American War and the Civil War. During World War II, the camp served as a training site for the Army's mountain and winter warfare units. After the war, it was used for various training purposes, including the development of the Army's airborne and air assault capabilities.

In 1984, the camp was redesignated as Fort Drum to reflect its growing importance and the increased size of its population. Today, Fort Drum is the largest employer in Jefferson County, providing jobs for thousands of military and civilian personnel.

a man in uniform standing next to an american flag

10th Mountain Division

The 10th Mountain Division, also known as the "Tenth Mountain" or "Tenth Light," is a light infantry division in the U.S. Army. It was first activated during World War II, but its current iteration was reactivated in 1985 at Fort Drum. The division has seen extensive combat in various operations, including the Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan, and the Iraq War.

Soldiers from 1-32 Infantry return to Fort Drum after Horn of Africa deployment

The 10th Mountain Division is known for its unique history and expertise in mountain and winter warfare. This specialized training has made the division a key component of the Army's global response capabilities. The division's headquarters is located at Fort Drum, with its units deployed worldwide.

Economic Impact of Fort Drum

Fort Drum's economic impact on the local region is substantial. According to a 2019 study by the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization, the post has an annual economic impact of over $3.7 billion on the North Country region of New York. This includes direct spending by the military, as well as indirect spending by military families and contractors.

Fort Drum soldiers repulsed by ex-chaplain speaker who preyed on soldiers worn down by training

The base also provides a significant number of jobs for the region. In 2019, Fort Drum employed over 15,000 military and civilian personnel. This includes active-duty soldiers, Army civilians, and contractors. The base's economic impact extends beyond the local region, with many military families choosing to live in nearby communities, further boosting the local economy.

Community Support for Fort Drum

The local community has a strong bond with Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division. This is reflected in various community support initiatives, such as the "Adopt-a-Unit" program, where local businesses and organizations "adopt" a military unit, providing them with support and resources.

10th Mountain soldier charged with murder of fellow soldier at Fort Drum

The Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization (FDRLO) is another example of this community support. The FDRLO is a non-profit organization that serves as a liaison between Fort Drum and the local community. It works to enhance the quality of life for military families and promote regional economic development.

Facilities and Infrastructure at Fort Drum

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Fort Drum DENTAC names its Warrior of the Year

a green road sign sitting on the side of a lush green field

a man in uniform standing next to an american flag and two other flags behind him

a car driving under an overpass with a fort drum sign on it's side

there are two men standing in front of the mountain crest with crossed swords on it

cars driving under a fort drum sign on the side of a road with traffic lights

10 Things Your Military Family Will Love About Fort Drum, NY

Army LTC. Todd J. Clark, 40, of Evans Mills, New York. Died June 8, 2013, serving during Operation Enduring Freedom. Assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, New York. Died in Sharana, Paktika Province, Afghanistan, of injuries suffered from small arms fire received at Zarghun Shahr District, Afghanistan, when an Afghani soldier in a group he was training turned his weapon on him. Us Army Officer Dress Uniform, Us Army Major Uniform, Us Army Officer Uniform, Us Army Colonel Uniform, Ohio National Guard Uniform, Col Tom Parker, 75th Ranger Regiment Afghanistan, Kim Garden Us Army, David Porter Us Army

The US Army’s 10th Mountain Division and Colorado

Fort Drum: The Concrete Battleship on El Fraile Island

there is a statue in the park with a man climbing up on it's back

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an american flag is on the back of a mountain climber's jacket that has been embroidered onto it

a statue of a man with a horse on it's back, in the middle of a grassy area

Fort Drum is a large installation, covering over 105,000 acres. It includes a variety of training areas, as well as numerous facilities to support the military and their families. These include housing areas, schools, medical facilities, and recreational facilities.

Some of the key facilities at Fort Drum include the 10th Mountain Division Headquarters, the 10th Mountain Division Combat Training Center, and the Fort Drum Regional Health Command. The post also has a variety of recreational facilities, such as sports fields, gyms, and outdoor recreation areas, to support the physical and mental well-being of its residents.

Fort Drum's location in the North Country region of New York also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. The post is surrounded by numerous state parks and forests, offering hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Environmental Stewardship at Fort Drum

Fort Drum is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The post has implemented numerous initiatives to protect and preserve the environment, including renewable energy projects, waste reduction programs, and habitat conservation efforts.

The post is also home to the 10th Mountain Division's Mountain Warfare School, which provides training in mountain and winter warfare tactics. This training includes instruction in environmental protection and conservation, reflecting the Army's commitment to responsible use of the environment.

In conclusion, Fort Drum is a vital military installation that plays a significant role in the U.S. Army's global response capabilities. It is also a major economic driver for the local region, providing jobs and supporting local businesses. The post's unique history, facilities, and commitment to environmental stewardship make it a unique and important part of the North Country region of New York.