About Fort Moore
Fort Moore (formerly known as Fort Benning), located near Columbus, Georgia, remains one of the largest and most significant Army installations in the United States. It continues to serve as the home of the Maneuver Center of Excellence, where soldiers are trained in infantry and armor tactics.
With its renaming, Fort Moore honors Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and Julia Compton Moore, recognized for their legacy of leadership and service. The installation continues to play a critical role in training soldiers and developing leaders, offering both basic and advanced training for Army personnel, including the U.S. Army Ranger School and the Airborne School.
In this Article
Fort Moore Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Fort Moore or planning a move to Columbus, Georgia, our comprehensive guide has all the information you need. From on-base housing options to the best local attractions, financial resources, and military discounts in the surrounding area, this guide covers everything to help you settle in at Fort Moore. Whether you’re transitioning to a new location or just looking for local tips, this resource ensures a smooth move and provides essential details about life at Fort Moore.
Fort Moore Base Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (706) 685-1234
- Housing Office: +1 (706) 685-1235
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (706) 685-1236
- Family Support Office: +1 (706) 685-1237
- Legal Office: +1 (706) 685-1238
Address: Fort Moore, 7117 Baltzell Ave, Fort Moore, GA 31905, United States
Mission
Fort Moore’s mission is to prepare soldiers for success on the battlefield by providing world-class training and support. The base is essential to the Army’s efforts to ensure readiness and capability for global operations.
History
- Established: 1918
- Key Historical Facts:
- Originally founded as Camp Benning during World War I.
- Became a permanent installation in 1922.
- Played a critical role in developing infantry tactics during World War II.
- Renamed Fort Moore in honor of Lieutenant General Hal Moore and his wife, Julia, in 2023.
Location
- Address: Fort Moore, 1 Karker Street, Fort Moore, GA 31905
- Coordinates: 32.3632° N, 84.9493° W
- Website: Fort Moore Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7.
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Atlanta International Airport: Take I-85 S to I-185 S and follow signs to Fort Moore Main Gate (approx. 1.5 hours).
- From Downtown Columbus: Drive north on US-27 N to I-185 N and follow signs to the base (approx. 15 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 25,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 14,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 30,000
- Total Population Served: Over 69,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Fort Moore offers privatized on-base housing managed by The Villages of Benning. Off-base housing options are also available in nearby Columbus and Phenix City, Alabama. Contact the Housing Office for more information at +1 (706) 685-1235.
- Popular off-base housing areas include Columbus and Phenix City, with a variety of single-family homes and apartments available.
- Current median home prices in Columbus: $200,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Fort Moore is conveniently located near U.S. Highway 280 and Interstate 185, offering easy access to surrounding cities like Columbus and Phenix City. On-base shuttle services are available for military personnel and their families.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical services are provided by Martin Army Community Hospital, which offers primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (706) 685-1236 for more information.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options at Fort Moore include the Patton Hall Dining Facility and a variety of fast-food outlets. Off-base, Columbus offers a wide range of restaurants, from local eateries to well-known chains.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Fort Moore offers multiple fitness centers featuring cardio equipment, weights, and group fitness classes. The base also has outdoor recreational areas for hiking, running, and family-friendly activities, including sports fields and parks.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: Fort Moore has schools managed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) that serve K-12 students living on base.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off base can access schools in the Muscogee County School District. Higher education opportunities are available at Columbus State University and Auburn University.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Fort Moore operates a Child Development Center (CDC), offering daycare, preschool programs, and after-school care for military families. Contact the CDC for enrollment information.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Fort Moore offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including parks, sports fields, and trails for hiking, running, and biking. The nearby Chattahoochee River is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and other water activities.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and Exchange for your shopping needs. Off-base, Columbus provides shopping centers and dining options, including Peachtree Mall and local favorites like The Cannon Brew Pub.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Veterans organizations like the VFW and American Legion in Columbus offer support and resources for military personnel and veterans.
- Family Support Office: Provides services such as deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy programs, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (706) 685-1237.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (706) 685-1238 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Fort Moore, formerly known as Fort Benning, is a key training center for the U.S. Army. Home to the Maneuver Center of Excellence, it provides combat training for soldiers in infantry, armor, and cavalry units.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What units are stationed at Fort Moore? | Fort Moore is home to the U.S. Army Infantry School, Armor School, and the Maneuver Center of Excellence. |
| Is there on-base housing at Fort Moore? | Yes, Fort Moore Family Housing provides various on-base living options for eligible personnel and their families. |
| Can civilians visit Fort Moore? | Civilians can access the base with a visitor pass from the Visitor Control Center, subject to background checks and security protocols. |
| What medical facilities are available? | Martin Army Community Hospital offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. |
| Are there recreational opportunities on base? | Yes, the base features fitness centers, outdoor activity areas, and community events, along with access to local attractions like the Riverwalk. |
| What education options are available for children? | On-base DoDEA schools serve military families, and additional public and private school options are available in the Columbus and Phenix City areas. |
| What is the nearest airport to Fort Moore? | Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the nearest major airport, located about 1.5 hours away by car. |
| Are there employment opportunities for civilians? | Yes, Fort Moore offers a variety of civilian and contractor job opportunities. Visit the base website or USAJOBS for current listings. |
| Is there a commissary on base? | Yes, Fort Moore has a commissary and PX for groceries, household goods, and more at discounted prices. |
| What outdoor activities are available near Fort Moore? | Fort Moore provides access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating, along with nearby attractions in Columbus and Phenix City. |
