Wisconsin has a deep military history dating back to its early territorial days. Settlers formed militias to protect their communities, and in 1851, these militias formally became the Wisconsin National Guard. The state played a significant role in the Civil War, contributing over 90,000 troops to the Union Army. Today, Wisconsin is home to one major military installation that continues to serve as a vital training center for U.S. forces.
Fort McCoy
Fort McCoy was established in 1942, built on land that had been used as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp during the Great Depression. As World War II intensified, the U.S. Army identified the need for additional training facilities and converted the area into a military training center.
During the war, Fort McCoy served multiple purposes:
- Training Grounds – Provided advanced training for troops before deployment.
- Prisoner of War Camp – Held thousands of German and Italian soldiers captured in Europe.
- Japanese POW Facility – Became the largest permanent holding site for Japanese prisoners of war in the continental United States.
Following World War II, Fort McCoy continued to evolve. Throughout the Cold War, it remained a key training and mobilization center for U.S. forces, ensuring troops were prepared for deployment.
Today, the base serves as one of the Army’s primary training locations for large-scale military exercises. It hosts Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve units, providing a realistic training environment for forces preparing for global missions.
For more details, visit the official base website: Fort McCoy
PCS to Wisconsin? We Can Help
If you are preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Fort McCoy, our military-friendly real estate agents and lenders can assist you with:
- Finding homes near the base
- Understanding VA loan options
- Navigating the local housing market
Planning Your Next Move?
Connect with Veteran & Military Spouse Real Estate Agents and VA Loan Experts You Can Trust.
Wisconsin offers a strong military support network, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. Whether you plan to buy or rent, having the right real estate professionals by your side makes all the difference.
Connect with an experienced real estate expert today!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Fort McCoy primarily used for today? Fort McCoy is a training and mobilization center for Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard forces, conducting large-scale military exercises year-round.
2. Are there housing options available on base? Fort McCoy does not offer on-base family housing, but there are military-friendly communities nearby, including Tomah and Sparta, where many service members choose to live.
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4. How can I use a VA loan to buy a home near Fort McCoy? VA loans provide zero down payment financing with competitive interest rates. Our VA loan specialists can help you navigate the process and secure the best financing options for your home purchase.
5. What should I know before moving to Wisconsin? Be prepared for cold winters, but also enjoy the strong military community, great schools, and a welcoming environment. Connecting with a local real estate agent who understands military relocations can make your transition smoother.
Moving to Wisconsin? Let Us Help
If you’re PCSing to Fort McCoy, let our veteran-friendly real estate agents assist you in finding the right home. Reach out today to get started!
