Fort Stewart
Fort Stewart: If you’ve ever driven through southeastern Georgia, you might have noticed a sprawling stretch of land filled with tanks, helicopters, and the sounds of soldiers training. That’s Fort Stewart—home to one of the most significant military communities in the United States. But this place is more than just an Army base. It’s a town within a town, filled with history, life, and a strong sense of duty.
Where Is Fort Stewart Located?
Fort Stewart sits in the heart of southeastern Georgia, about 40 miles southwest of Savannah and just a short drive from the Atlantic coast. Its main gate is located in Hinesville, a city that thrives in large part due to its strong connection with the base.
The location is ideal. Soldiers stationed at Fort Stewart can enjoy warm weather most of the year. On weekends, they can explore Georgia’s coastal beauty or head into Savannah for some great food, shopping, and nightlife.
A Look Back: The History of Fort Stewart
The story of Fort Stewart began in 1940, just before the United States entered World War II. Back then, the U.S. military saw the need for a large training area where soldiers could prepare for battle. Southeast Georgia, with its wide-open land and mild climate, was the perfect fit.
Originally called Camp Stewart, the installation served as an anti-aircraft training center. Over time, it expanded and took on new missions. During the Cold War and beyond, Fort Stewart became a permanent home for active-duty units. In 1974, it was officially designated as Fort Stewart.
Today, it proudly hosts the 3rd Infantry Division, also known as the Rock of the Marne—a unit with a long and heroic combat history.
The Mission of Fort Stewart
At its core, Fort Stewart exists to train and deploy combat-ready forces. Soldiers who serve here know that they could be called upon at any time to defend the nation. The base provides everything they need to stay sharp, from large-scale training ranges to advanced simulation systems.
But Fort Stewart isn’t just about preparing for battle. It also focuses on building well-rounded soldiers. Physical fitness, mental resilience, and leadership development are part of daily life on post. It’s a place where soldiers grow—not just professionally but personally as well.
Life on Base: A Community Within Itself
One of the things that surprises many people is how much of a community Fort Stewart really is. Once you pass through the gates, it feels like a small town. There are schools, grocery stores, gas stations, parks, and even a movie theater—all right there on post.
For families, the base provides family housing, child development centers, and youth programs. Kids can go to school, make friends, and enjoy activities just like in any civilian neighborhood.
Spouses have access to career counseling, fitness centers, and support services that make it easier to adjust to military life. In short, Fort Stewart works hard to take care of its people—not just the soldiers, but everyone who supports them.
Training Like No Other
Fort Stewart boasts some of the largest training areas in the eastern United States. Its terrain includes forests, open fields, and even swampy regions—ideal for all types of combat preparation. Units train here for live-fire exercises, tank maneuvers, urban warfare, and more.
In fact, Fort Stewart has so much space that it often hosts training for National Guard units and even international allies. It’s not uncommon to see helicopters flying overhead or hear artillery in the distance. This constant activity ensures soldiers are always mission-ready.
Support for Veterans and Families
After their service, many soldiers choose to retire in the area around Fort Stewart. That’s no surprise—between the low cost of living, the strong veteran community, and the warm weather, it’s a great place to settle down.
The base also provides a number of services for veterans. From healthcare support to transition assistance programs, Fort Stewart ensures that those who served don’t feel forgotten once their active duty ends.
For families dealing with deployments or relocations, there are programs to help with everything from counseling to financial planning. The Army Community Service (ACS) center plays a big role in helping military families feel grounded and supported.
Things to Do Near Fort Stewart
You might think that living near a military base means limited entertainment. But that’s far from the truth at Fort Stewart.
Nearby Savannah is filled with charm. Whether you love cobblestone streets, historic homes, or amazing food, there’s always something to explore. Drive just a little further and you’ll find Tybee Island, a beautiful beach where you can relax and unwind.
Closer to the base, the town of Hinesville has grown with the Fort Stewart community. You’ll find shops, restaurants, and festivals throughout the year that make it feel like home. Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, fishing, or kayaking in the many natural spots nearby.
A Strong Sense of Pride
What stands out most about Fort Stewart is the deep sense of pride shared by everyone on post. Soldiers train hard, families support each other, and the community comes together in times of joy and difficulty alike.
Whether you’re visiting for a day, getting stationed here, or have spent your whole career at Fort Stewart, it leaves an impression. It’s not just the tanks or the uniforms—it’s the people, the purpose, and the sense of service that defines this place.
FAQs About Fort Stewart
1. Is Fort Stewart open to civilians?
Yes, civilians can access certain parts of Fort Stewart, such as the museum, some recreational areas, and events. However, you’ll need a visitor pass and a valid ID to enter the base.
2. What is Fort Stewart known for?
Fort Stewart is known for being the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi and the home of the 3rd Infantry Division. It’s also known for its vast training areas and strong community support.
3. Are there schools on base?
Yes, Fort Stewart has Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools for children of active-duty service members. These schools follow a high-quality curriculum and are designed to support military families.
4. Can families live on Fort Stewart?
Absolutely. There is on-base housing available for service members and their families. Housing options range from apartments to family homes, depending on rank and availability.
5. How big is Fort Stewart?
Fort Stewart spans nearly 280,000 acres, making it one of the largest military installations in the eastern U.S. Its size allows for full-scale military training, including live-fire exercises and large unit maneuvers.
Final Thoughts
Fort Stewart may be a military base, but it’s also a vibrant, tight-knit community. From its rich history to its vital role in today’s Army, it stands as a symbol of strength and service. Whether you’re a soldier, a family member, or just curious about Army life, Fort Stewart offers a glimpse into a world where commitment and courage shape every day.
So, next time you’re driving through Georgia, take a moment to think about what’s happening just beyond those gates—a place where training never stops, families grow strong, and pride runs deep.
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