Discover 15 U.S. Military Forts Featured in Stunning Images from the Smithsonian Magazine Photography Competition
These military installations, whether currently operational or no longer in service, illustrate the diverse ways they embody the essence of the country
The original state flag of Maine, from 1901, is flown as the schooner Timberwind emerges from the fog, passing Fort Gorges in Casco Bay.
Jean Cousins, Maine, 2020
Over 300 military forts are scattered throughout the United States. This count increases when including those in U.S. territories, such as Guam and Puerto Rico. Some are from Colonial times, predating America’s independence, and were acquired from past foes. Others are expansive, contemporary communities featuring shops, schools, and bowling alleys, constructed to meet the daily requirements of military families while also advancing the Army’s objective to “deploy, fight and win.” Regardless of being historical, inactive, or new and bustling, these forts contribute to America’s narrative and are showcased here in charming diversity. Have a look.
Built in the early to mid-1800s, Fort Soledad, also referred to as Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, is a historic Spanish fortification located in Humåtak. It became a public park after World War II. Melissa Stiefel, Guam, 2013
Black Hawk pilots at Fort Carson practice with Bambi Buckets, designed to transport water for combating large fires. Grace Margritz, Colorado, 2020
Dressed in Colonial-period uniforms, men at Fort McHenry discharge firearms in honor of Defenders’ Day—Baltimore’s oldest holiday, which commemorates the city’s successful repulse of British forces in 1814. Joshua Eller, Maryland, 2011
Once a World War I training camp, the now-decommissioned Fort Ord has become a national monument. Abby O’Rourke, California, 2012
The UH-60 Black Hawk—the Army’s primary utility chopper—is commonly deployed in air assaults. Grace Margritz, Colorado, 2020
Soldiers engaged in battles from these tunnels at Fort Barrancas in Pensacola. William Finn, Florida, 2023
The Milky Way shines over Fort Crown Point. Built by the British on the site of the old French Fort St. Frederic in 1759, Crown Point was taken by American colonists in 1775. Its armaments were crucial for the Revolutionary efforts. Michael Catillaz, New York, 2021
Castillo San Felipe del Morro in Puerto Rico is among numerous forts constructed by the coastline to safeguard against invaders and protect shipping vessels. Valeria Villegas-Medina, Puerto Rico, 2022
Artillery soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, fire shells from an M119A1 howitzer during a live-fire drill at Fort Drum. Jessica George, New York, 2020
The abandoned military installation Fort Ord is adorned with graffiti on its walls. Abby O’Rourke, California, 2012
The remnants of the officers’ quarters at Fort Union National Monument in New Mexico remain intact. The fort served as a supply point and was a significant stop for traders and travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. Steven Martin, New Mexico, 2015
An abandoned bottle and an oil lamp rest on a barrel in a weathered room at Fort Adams. Kimberly Maines, Rhode Island, 2018
A soldier from the U.S. Army at Fort McHenry in Baltimore observes fireworks lighting up the sky to commemorate the 200th anniversary of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Cody Torkelson, Maryland, 2014
This historic room at Fort Adams, once occupied by soldiers, now serves as a museum. Beyond its deteriorating walls, the fort hosts daily tours and yearly summer festivals. Kimberly Maines, Rhode Island, 2018
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