--- title: What Military Bases are in Kansas? slug: what-military-bases-are-in-kansas description: Find every active military base in Kansas—Fort Riley & Fort Leavenworth among them—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and veteran-friendly agents. publishedAt: 2024-07-10T13:51:25.000Z updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z author: VeteranPCS categories: [US Military Bases] canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-kansas --- # What Military Bases are in Kansas? 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: - 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**](https://www.mcconnell.af.mil/). ### **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. [**Find a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender in Kansas Today**](https://veteranpcs.com)**!** ### **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. [**Find a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender Now**](https://veteranpcs.com/kansas)**!**