Fort Leonard Wood, MO

Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, has a rich and diverse history. Established in 1940, it originated as an Army training post during World War II. Here is a brief overview of its history:

World War II

In 1940, the U.S. War Department selected a site in the Missouri Ozarks to establish a new training post. Named after Major General Leonard Wood, an important figure in American military history, the installation was designed to accommodate the growing demand for trained soldiers during the war. Construction began in December 1940, and by June 1941, the first troops arrived for training.

Basic Training

During World War II, Fort Leonard Wood primarily served as a basic training facility for infantry and engineer regiments. Thousands of soldiers were trained here, preparing them for combat across various theaters of war. The Army also established a Military Police School and Engineer Replacement Training Center at the fort during this time.

Cold War Era

Following World War II, Fort Leonard Wood remained an important military installation. In the 1950s, it became a primary training center for the Army's Engineer Corps. During the Cold War, the fort adapted to the changing needs of the military, incorporating nuclear, biological, and chemical defense training into its curriculum.

Expansion and Modernization

In the 1980s and 1990s, Fort Leonard Wood underwent significant expansion and modernization. New facilities and training areas were constructed to accommodate the changing requirements of the Army. The installation also became the home of the U.S. Army Military Police School, the U.S. Army Engineer School, and the U.S. Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear School.

Recent History

In recent years, Fort Leonard Wood has continued to evolve. The installation has adapted to the changing nature of modern warfare by providing specialized training for counterinsurgency, urban warfare, and combating improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Additionally, the fort has embraced new technologies and training methods to better prepare soldiers for the complex challenges they face in the field.

Fort Leonard Wood has played a vital role in training and preparing soldiers for over 80 years. With its rich history, the installation stands as a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in the U.S. Army.

Fort Leonard Wood Museum

This museum showcases the history of the installation and the Army's Engineer Corps. It features exhibits on military equipment, vehicles, and artifacts.

Piney Valley Golf Course

A scenic 18-hole golf course offering a challenging game surrounded by nature and rolling hills.

Lake of the Ozarks State Park

Located nearby, this state park offers numerous recreational activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, and camping. It also features scenic viewpoints and nature trails.

Big Surf Waterpark

Located at Lake of the Ozarks, this waterpark offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and other water activities for all ages.

Mark Twain National Forest

A vast forest area with various hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The forest also features numerous streams and waterfalls.

Pulaski County Tourism Bureau

This bureau provides information on local attractions, including cave tours, scenic drives, and historic sites. They can guide you to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Route 66

Fort Leonard Wood is located along the iconic Route 66. Travelers can explore the historic sites, vintage diners, and roadside attractions along this famous highway.

The Old Stagecoach Stop

A historic building that once served as a stagecoach stop along the Main Street of Waynesville. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its history and see the preserved artifacts.

St. Robert Museum

A small local museum dedicated to preserving the history of the area. It displays artifacts, photographs, and exhibits showcasing the cultural heritage of St. Robert and the surrounding communities.

Ozark Actors Theatre

Located in nearby Rolla, this professional theater company offers a range of productions, including plays and musicals, throughout the year.

Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures reaching the mid-90s Fahrenheit (35-36 degrees Celsius) in July and August. Heatwaves are common during this time, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are also common in the summer months.

Winters in Fort Leonard Wood are typically cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. December and January are the coldest months, with average lows around 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is moderate, averaging around 17 inches (43 centimeters) per year, with some years receiving more or less.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and fluctuating weather patterns. Spring is usually wet, with frequent rains and occasional severe thunderstorms. Fall is generally mild and pleasant, with cooler temperatures gradually replacing the summer heat.

Overall, Fort Leonard Wood experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, from extreme heat in the summer to chilly winters. It is important to be prepared for both hot and cold weather if planning to visit or live in the area.

Fort Leonard Wood is a military installation located in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri. While it is primarily known as a training base for the United States Army, there are a few residential neighborhoods in the surrounding area where military families and personnel live.

Waynesville

Waynesville is a small town located just outside the main gates of Fort Leonard Wood. It is the closest civilian community to the base and offers amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and schools. Waynesville has a small-town charm and is home to many military families.

St. Robert

Located adjacent to Waynesville, St. Robert is another popular neighborhood for military families stationed at Fort Leonard Wood. It is a larger town with more shopping options, hotels, and restaurants. St. Robert also offers easy access to the base and has several residential communities within its boundaries.

Dixon

Dixon is a rural community located approximately 15 miles northwest of Fort Leonard Wood. It is a quieter and more secluded neighborhood, surrounded by beautiful countryside. Dixon is known for its friendly atmosphere and offers a peaceful living environment away from the busyness of the base and larger towns.

Rolla

About 30 miles north of Fort Leonard Wood, Rolla is a larger city with a diverse population. Rolla is home to the Missouri University of Science and Technology, which contributes to a vibrant and academic atmosphere. This town offers a range of amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities.

Lebanon

Lebanon is located about 35 miles west of Fort Leonard Wood and is a larger community with a mix of urban and rural areas. It provides more extensive shopping options, medical facilities, and entertainment opportunities. Lebanon has a growing economy and a variety of housing options for military personnel.

These neighborhoods provide military families stationed at Fort Leonard Wood with different options based on their preferences. Some prefer the convenience and proximity to the base offered by Waynesville and St. Robert, while others may prefer a more rural and peaceful lifestyle found in Dixon or even the amenities and opportunities offered by larger cities like Rolla and Lebanon.