FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (June 10, 2024) — Established June 14, 1775, more than a year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Army is older than the nation it serves. In celebration of 249 years of service, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood leaders have events planned for the day.

Friday begins with a division-style birthday run, starting at 5:00 a.m. on Gammon Field. That same day, a traditional Army cake-cutting ceremony is set to take place at 10:30 a.m. on MSCoE Plaza.

Reporters wishing to cover these events should contact the Public Affairs Office by noon Thursday, June 13, at 573.563.4145.

 

 

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About Fort Leonard Wood

Fort Leonard Wood is a thriving and prosperous installation that has evolved from a small basic training post more than 75 years ago to a premier Army Center of Excellence that trains more than 80,000 military and civilians each year.

Fort Leonard Wood is home to the U.S Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and three U.S. Army schools: the U.S. Army Engineer School; U.S. Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear School; and the U.S. Army Military Police School. In addition to training engineer, CBRN and military police specialties for the Army, Fort Leonard Wood also provides gender-integrated in-processing and Basic Combat Training for new Soldiers.

Fort Leonard Wood also hosts and trains with the largest Marine Corps Detachment and Air Force Squadron on any Army installation as well as a large Navy construction detachment.