Fort Meade Maryland
Fort Meade, Maryland is one of the few census designated military installations. It is located in the western side of the state, close to the Anne Arundel County. Judging by the 2000 census, the fort hosted almost 10000 individuals back then. There were over 2300 families and almost the same number for households. In other words, there is almost a perfect balance between the housing opportunities and the people in the fort. The base covers 17 square km. Most of its territory is on land.
History
The fort history begins in May, 1917, when the congress accepted the army suggestion to build yet another military base for World War I. However, this camp was special. Along with 15 other similar camps. It dealt with the troops dispatched to Europe only. Those who got here training and getting the proper preparation knew their destination before they even got there – Europe. The only mystery remained the place in Europe they would have to get to. The location of the place was picked during the same year. It was chosen as a central point between the port in Baltimore, a common railroad and Washington DC. The place was first called Camp Meade, in the memory of one of the Civil War generals. He played a major role in the North victory over South. The initial investment reached over $18M, a huge amount of money for those times.
During World War I, Ford Meade represented one of the largest and most important and active training centers in the world. It took the experts here a few years to train almost half a million troops. The training site was huge and counted not less than three divisions, three battalions and a depot brigade. The fort was more famous for its special crew of women dealing with foreign languages on the phone – the “Hello Girls” group.
During World War II, the fort popularity was increased. More than 3.5M individuals took advantage of the training facilities here. At some time, the fort counted not less than 70000 inhabitants. It also hosted prisoners of war sent from Germany, Japan or Italy. With such a major importance, it played a huge role during the Cold War too. As for the Vietnam War or Korean War, its importance was directly proportional with the importance of the wars. During Operation Desert Storm, the authorities decided to send two of the hosting units in the desert, something that is rarely seen among the US military facilities.
One of the most important characters in the history of Fort Meade is Old Joe, the official dog that loved riding tanks with the soldiers. When Old Joe passed away in 1937, it was buried with honors and tank processions.
Housing
The housing system at Fort Meade is as varied as the operations here are. The Residential Communities Initiative Program is the one responsible for the newcomers. Even if you plan to relocate off site, you have the Off Post Housing Referral Office to help you throughout the process.
Location: 39.0904, -76.7194
Phone: (301) 677-6261
DSN: 622-6261December 11, 2011
Housing for Rent Nearby
If you are or were in the military you could be eligible for a VA loan. That entails lower than market rates to help you buy a home rather than renting!
$2200 Monthly 2200 Sq. Ft.
$1650 Monthly 1600 Sq. Ft.
$1950 Monthly 1925 Sq. Ft.
$1600 Monthly 2244 Sq. Ft.
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