Fort Polk, Military Base

A U.S. Army advisor assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade, loads ammo into a machine gun during a Joint Readiness Training Center rotation at Fort Polk, La., April 25. (Photo by Maj. Jason Elmore)

Fort Polk is named in honor of Silver Star recipient Gen. James H. Polk for his gallantry in action as commanding officer of the 3rd Cavalry Group (Mechanized) during operations across Europe in World War II. Then-Col. Polk led reconnaissance and combat missions under fire, spearheading Third Army advances as part of Task Force Polk. He later served as commander in chief of U.S. Army Europe.

Camp Polk was officially completed August 1, 1941. Soldiers of the World War II and Vietnam eras would scarcely recognize the new Fort Johnson. Most of the old wooden buildings have been replaced with modern barracks, motor pools, unit administrative offices, and service facilities. After more than half a century of service, U.S. leaders continue to place their confidence in Fort Johnson.