--- title: What Military Bases are in Kentucky? slug: what-military-bases-are-in-kentucky description: Army bases in Kentucky—Fort Knox, Fort Campbell and the state’s other active installations—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and veteran-friendly agents. publishedAt: 2024-07-02T13:40:24.000Z updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z author: VeteranPCS categories: [US Military Bases] canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-kentucky --- # What Military Bases are in Kentucky? Kentucky's strategic location along the Ohio River has made it a key military region throughout U.S. history. The state played a pivotal role in early conflicts, including the **French and Indian War**, and has remained a vital part of national defense ever since. Over time, Kentucky has been home to multiple military installations, but today, it hosts two major bases: **Fort Campbell and Fort Knox**. ### **Fort Campbell** Fort Campbell was established during World War II in response to the growing need for expanded training facilities after the attack on **Pearl Harbor**. Named after **Brigadier General William Bowen Campbell**, the base was originally used to train **armored divisions**, including the 12th, 14th, and 20th Armored Divisions, which played key roles in the European theater of the war. #### **Current Role and Units** Today, Fort Campbell is known for housing some of the U.S. Army’s most elite units, including: - **101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)** – Specializes in rapid air assault operations and large-scale combat. - **5th Special Forces Group (Airborne)** – Focuses on unconventional warfare and special operations. - **160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne)** – Also known as the **Night Stalkers**, this elite aviation unit specializes in nighttime missions, supporting **Special Operations Forces** worldwide. Fort Campbell is one of the most active bases in the country, continuously training and deploying troops to global hotspots. It remains a cornerstone of **rapid deployment and special operations training**. For more information, visit the **Fort Campbell Website**. ### **Fort Knox** Fort Knox was established in **1918** and named after **Major General Henry Knox**, the first U.S. Secretary of War. Initially, the base served as a **training ground for infantry divisions** preparing for deployment to Europe during **World War I**. #### **Home of the U.S. Gold Bullion Depository** In 1933, Fort Knox was selected as the site for the **U.S. Bullion Depository**, housing much of the nation’s gold reserves. The location was chosen due to its **central positioning**, **existing military infrastructure**, and **heavily secured terrain**. The depository remains one of the most **secure locations in the world**, known for its **reinforced vaults** and **layers of military protection**. #### **Training and Operational Focus** While Fort Knox is famous for its gold reserves, it is also an important military training facility. The base is home to: - **U.S. Army Cadet Command**, overseeing the **ROTC program** that trains future Army officers. - **U.S. Army Human Resources Command**, which manages **personnel operations for the entire Army**. - **General George Patton Museum**, which preserves the history of the **U.S. Armored Corps** and honors the legacy of one of America’s most famous generals. For more information, visit the **Fort Knox Website**. ### **Relocating to Kentucky? We Can Help!** If you are **PCSing to Kentucky**, **VeteranPCS** can connect you with **veteran-friendly real estate agents and lenders** who understand the challenges of **military relocation**. Whether you are searching for a home near **Fort Campbell** or **Fort Knox**, we can help you navigate the process smoothly. [**Connect with an Agent or Lender in Kentucky Today**](https://veteranpcs.com/kentucky)**!** ### **Frequently Asked Questions** **1. What military units are stationed at Fort Campbell?** Fort Campbell is home to several elite units, including the **101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)**, **5th Special Forces Group (Airborne)**, and the **160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Night Stalkers)**. **2. Can civilians visit Fort Knox?** While some areas of Fort Knox, such as the **General George Patton Museum**, are open to the public, the **U.S. Bullion Depository is off-limits** due to security reasons. **3. Why was Fort Knox chosen as the site for the U.S. Bullion Depository?** Fort Knox was selected because of its **central location**, **existing military presence**, and **high-security infrastructure**, making it an ideal place to safeguard the nation's gold reserves. **4. Is Fort Campbell an active deployment base?** Yes, Fort Campbell is one of the **most active deployment bases** in the country, with the **101st Airborne Division frequently deploying to global conflict zones**. **5. How can I find housing near Fort Campbell or Fort Knox?** VeteranPCS specializes in helping **military families find housing** near **major installations**. Our **veteran-friendly agents and lenders** can assist you in finding a home that suits your needs and VA loan benefits. If you're preparing for a **PCS move to Kentucky**, let **VeteranPCS** help make your transition easier. [**Find a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender Now**](https://veteranpcs.com/kentucky)**!**