Bangor Base, WA

Bangor Base, officially known as Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, is a United States Navy base located on the Kitsap Peninsula in Washington state. It is situated approximately 20 miles west of Seattle and 10 miles northwest of Bremerton. The base is home to the Navy's Pacific Fleet of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) equipped with Trident II D-5 nuclear ballistic missiles.

The history of Bangor Base dates back to the early 1940s when the United States Navy acquired the land for naval purposes. The base was originally established as a Navy ammunition depot in 1942 during World War II to support the Pacific Theater. It was strategically chosen for its secure location in Puget Sound, protecting it from potential attacks. The base also served as a munitions supply point and storage facility for naval forces in the region.

During the Cold War era, the mission and function of Bangor Base changed. In the 1970s, it was selected as the Navy's preferred location for the construction of a Trident submarine base. The base underwent significant expansion and construction to accommodate the planned ballistic missile submarine fleet. In 1977, the first Trident submarine, USS Ohio, arrived at Bangor. Over the next several years, additional Trident submarines were deployed to the base, making it the primary Pacific Fleet homeport for SSBNs.

Throughout its history, Bangor Base has played a crucial role in maintaining the nation's strategic deterrent capability. The base is responsible for supporting the planning, training, maintenance, and operations of the SSBNs equipped with Trident II D-5 missiles. The Trident submarines are an integral part of the US nuclear triad, along with land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles and strategic bombers. They provide a vital component of the nation's defense strategy, ensuring deterrence and strategic stability.

In recent years, Bangor Base has continued to modernize and upgrade its facilities to support the Trident submarine fleet. It is one of two submarine bases under the command of Naval Base Kitsap, along with nearby Naval Submarine Base Kitsap-Bremerton. Together, these bases form the largest naval installation on the West Coast of the United States.

Bangor Base remains an essential part of the Pacific Fleet's nuclear defense capabilities. Its history reflects the changing needs and challenges faced by the United States Navy over the years, from a World War II ammunition depot to a strategic nucleus for submarine-based deterrence.

Here are some attractions in Bangor Base, WA:

Kitsap Memorial State Park

This beautiful park offers hiking trails, water activities, and scenic views of Hood Canal.

Olympic Peninsula

Just a short drive from Bangor Base, you can explore the stunning Olympic Peninsula with its diverse landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas.

Poulsbo

This charming waterfront town is known for its Scandinavian heritage, unique shops, and dining options.

Bainbridge Island

Take a ferry ride from Bangor Base to Bainbridge Island and enjoy its picturesque scenery, wineries, and art galleries.

USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

Learn about naval history by visiting this historic destroyer located in nearby Bremerton.

Clear Creek Trail

This scenic trail offers a peaceful escape through lush forests and beautiful wildlife.

Port Townsend

Known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, Port Townsend is a small waterfront town offering art galleries, restaurants, and outdoor activities.

Bremerton Boardwalk

Spend some time walking along the waterfront boardwalk in Bremerton, which offers stunning views and access to restaurants and shops.

Suquamish Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of the Suquamish Tribe at this educational museum located nearby.

Naval Undersea Museum

Check out this museum in Keyport, which showcases the Navy's undersea history, including submarines and torpedoes.

Bangor Base, Washington, experiences a temperate marine climate. The region is located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The climate is greatly influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains.

Summers in Bangor Base are generally mild and relatively dry, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (10-24 degrees Celsius). The area experiences long days during the summer months, with plenty of daylight hours. However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 80s (above 25 degrees Celsius).

Winters in Bangor Base are cool and wet, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (1-8 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is abundant in the winter, and the region occasionally experiences snowfall, although it is relatively rare and usually doesn't accumulate significantly.

Spring and autumn seasons are characterized by mild temperatures and variable weather conditions. Rainfall is more frequent during these seasons compared to summer, but not as heavy as in winter.

Due to its location near the Pacific Ocean, Bangor Base experiences high humidity year-round. Foggy conditions are common, particularly during the mornings and evenings. The area also receives a generous amount of precipitation, with an average of about 50-60 inches (127-152 centimeters) of rainfall annually.

It's worth noting that the climate in Bangor Base can vary slightly from year to year due to natural climate patterns like El Niño or La Niña, which can impact temperatures and precipitation levels.

Bangor Base is a naval base located in Kitsap County, Washington. It is known for its strategic location on the Kitsap Peninsula and its proximity to the city of Bremerton. While Bangor Base itself is primarily a military installation, there are several nearby neighborhoods that offer residential options for military personnel and their families. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in the vicinity of Bangor Base:

Silverdale

Located just east of Bangor Base, Silverdale is a thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and retail areas. It offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. There are several shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities in the area, providing residents with convenient amenities.

Poulsbo

Situated northwest of Bangor Base, Poulsbo is a charming waterfront town with a strong Scandinavian influence. It features a historic downtown area, known as "Little Norway," with its quaint shops, bakeries, and restaurants. Poulsbo offers a variety of housing options, including waterfront properties, suburban neighborhoods, and rural areas with larger acreage.

Bremerton

Located across the Puget Sound, Bremerton is home to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, which is a major employer in the region. The city has a revitalized downtown area with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Bremerton offers a range of residential options, including historic homes, urban apartments, and suburban neighborhoods.

Port Orchard

Situated south of Bangor Base, Port Orchard is a picturesque waterfront community with a small-town feel. It offers a mix of historic homes, newer residential developments, and waterfront properties. The downtown area has shops, eateries, and a marina, while several parks and trails provide opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Silverdale Estates

This manufactured home community is located in Silverdale, just a short distance from Bangor Base. It offers affordable housing options for military families and retirees. The neighborhood features amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and walking trails.

These are just a few of the many neighborhoods around Bangor Base, and each offers its own unique character and amenities. Whether you prefer a bustling city, a quaint town, or a waterfront community, there are plenty of choices for residents near the naval base.