Kansas has a deep military history dating back to the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. As settlers moved west along the Oregon Trail, the U.S. Army established a network of forts to provide security and logistical support. Two of these forts—Fort Leavenworth and Fort Riley—remain active today. Along with McConnell Air Force Base, these installations play a critical role in U.S. military operations and support service members stationed in the state.
Fort Leavenworth
Established in 1827, Fort Leavenworth is one of the oldest active military installations west of the Mississippi River. It was originally founded by Colonel Henry Leavenworth to protect trade routes and settlers moving west.
During the post-Civil War era, Fort Leavenworth became home to the Buffalo Soldiers, some of the first all-Black regiments in the U.S. Army. These soldiers played a crucial role in securing the western frontier.
Current Role
Today, Fort Leavenworth is the intellectual hub of the Army, home to the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center (CAC). This institution oversees various Army schools and training centers, including:
- The Command and General Staff College (CGSC) – A premier leadership school for officers.
- The Army University – Provides education and training for military personnel.
- The Center for Army Lessons Learned – Analyzes battlefield strategies and improves training for future conflicts.
Fort Leavenworth remains a strategic training center, preparing military leaders for modern warfare and operational challenges.
For more information, visit the Fort Leavenworth website.
Fort Riley
Fort Riley was established in 1853 to protect settlers and trade routes on the Kansas plains. It was named after Major General Bennett C. Riley, who led the first military escort along the Santa Fe Trail.
During the 19th century, Fort Riley was a major hub for cavalry training, solidifying its role as one of the Army's premier training facilities.
Current Role
Today, Fort Riley is home to the 1st Infantry Division, also known as the Big Red One, the oldest continuously serving division in the U.S. Army. The base also houses:
- The U.S. Army Cavalry Museum, preserving the history of cavalry operations.
- Modern training facilities that prepare troops for global deployment.
Fort Riley remains a crucial base for combat readiness and mechanized infantry training.
For more information, visit the Fort Riley website.
McConnell Air Force Base
McConnell Air Force Base's origins date back to 1929, when the city of Wichita, Kansas, raised funds to build the Wichita Municipal Airport. This airfield became a crucial part of the aviation industry in Kansas, attracting military interest.
In 1953, due to growing Cold War tensions, the U.S. Air Force acquired the airfield, converting it into a strategic military installation. It was renamed McConnell Air Force Base in honor of three brothers from Wichita—Thomas, Fred, and Edwin McConnell—who served as pilots during World War II.
Current Role
McConnell AFB plays a vital role in the U.S. Air Force’s global aerial refueling mission. The base is home to:
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- The 22nd Air Refueling Wing, operating KC-135 Stratotankers and the new KC-46 Pegasus.
- Air Mobility Command, which supports global operations by extending the reach of U.S. and allied aircraft.
- Tanker and transport training programs, ensuring Air Force crews are prepared for rapid deployments.
McConnell AFB remains one of the most important aerial refueling bases in the country, enhancing global air operations and logistical support for military missions.
For more information, visit the McConnell AFB website.
Relocating to Kansas? We Can Help!
If you are preparing for a PCS move to Kansas, VeteranPCS connects you with veteran-friendly real estate agents and lenders who specialize in military relocations. Whether you need housing near Fort Leavenworth, Fort Riley, or McConnell AFB, our team can help simplify the transition.
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Plan Your PCS to Kansas
Your move looks different depending on where your orders land. Army families headed to the Flint Hills can start with our PCS to Fort Riley guide or our PCS to Fort Leavenworth guide, while Airmen bound for Wichita can read our PCS to McConnell Air Force Base guide. To keep the move on track, work through our ultimate PCS checklist and timeline, and if you plan to buy, learn about the benefits of a VA loan and check the Kansas veteran property tax exemptions you may qualify for.
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We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.When you are ready for a local read on a specific base or neighborhood, you can ask a VeteranPCS agent in Kansas for current listings and prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What military units are stationed at Fort Leavenworth? Fort Leavenworth is home to the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center (CAC), which oversees the Command and General Staff College (CGSC) and multiple Army training programs.
2. What is Fort Riley known for? Fort Riley is best known for housing the 1st Infantry Division (Big Red One) and its long history of cavalry and mechanized infantry training.
3. What is McConnell Air Force Base’s primary mission? McConnell AFB specializes in aerial refueling operations, supporting military aircraft worldwide through KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-46 Pegasus tankers.
4. Is Fort Leavenworth open to the public? Some areas of Fort Leavenworth, such as the Frontier Army Museum, are open to the public, but access to operational areas is restricted.
5. How can I find housing near Fort Leavenworth, Fort Riley, or McConnell AFB? VeteranPCS provides military-friendly real estate services to help active-duty personnel and veterans find housing near Kansas military bases.
If you're preparing for a PCS move to Kansas, let VeteranPCS help make your transition easier.
