Military Bases in Wyoming
Essential info for life on and off base in Wyoming.
Air Force Bases
Wyoming Military Bases Overview
Wyoming’s military bases, primarily F.E. Warren Air Force Base near Cheyenne, anchor the state’s modest but critical defense presence, supporting PCS and TDY assignments. With only one active-duty installation, Wyoming’s military footprint is unique, focusing on nuclear deterrence and National Guard training. This guide to bases showcases Wyoming’s storied military history, economic contributions, and strategic significance.
A Legacy of Frontier Defense
Wyoming’s military history began with frontier forts protecting the transcontinental railroad. Fort D.A. Russell, established in 1867, became F.E. Warren AFB in 1930, named for Medal of Honor recipient Senator Francis E. Warren. It’s the oldest continuously active Air Force installation, transitioning from a cavalry post to a strategic missile base by 1947. Fort Laramie, a key trading post from 1834, supported Army operations until 1890, shaping Wyoming’s early defense role. Camp Sheridan, active in the 1870s, guarded settlers during Native American conflicts, closing in 1881.
Economic Backbone
Wyoming’s military facilities bolster the state’s economy, particularly in Cheyenne. F.E. Warren AFB employs over 4,000 personnel, including active-duty, civilians, and Air National Guard members, contributing over $1 billion annually to the local economy through jobs and contracting, per Wyoming government estimates. Camp Guernsey in Platte County supports regional businesses during training exercises, drawing thousands of Guard members. These bases sustain schools and infrastructure, with Cheyenne’s Laramie County School District receiving federal aid for military families.
Key Military Facilities
F.E. Warren Air Force Base (Cheyenne): Home to the 90th Missile Wing, operating LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBMs for nuclear deterrence, under Air Force Global Strike Command.
Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center: A 51,000-acre Wyoming National Guard facility for maneuver training, supporting artillery, air support, and counter-IED exercises.
Wyoming National Guard Armory (Cheyenne): Headquarters for the 153rd Airlift Wing, coordinating C-130 transport and disaster response operations.
Strategic Significance
Wyoming’s sparse but specialized bases are pivotal to national security. F.E. Warren AFB is one of three U.S. strategic missile bases, managing 150 Minuteman III launch facilities across the region, critical to nuclear deterrence. Camp Guernsey provides realistic combat training for National Guard and active-duty units, leveraging its vast terrain and minimal restrictions for live-fire and aerial exercises. These facilities ensure readiness for global and domestic missions.
Notable Distinctions
F.E. Warren AFB holds the distinction of being the Air Force’s oldest continuously active base, with 158 years of service since 1867. Its 90th Missile Wing oversees one-third of the U.S. ICBM arsenal, unmatched in strategic impact. Camp Guernsey is a premier Maneuver Training Center-Heavy, with 60 square miles of restricted airspace and C-17-capable runways, supporting multi-branch training.
For service members on PCS to Wyoming or TDY in Wyoming, these bases offer cutting-edge missions and tight-knit communities. From Cheyenne’s vibrant economy to Guernsey’s rugged training grounds, Wyoming’s military facilities provide unparalleled support and opportunities for military families.