key term - Establishment in 1917

Definition

The establishment in 1917 refers to the founding of Camp Lewis, a U.S. Army base in Washington State, during World War I. This base was pivotal for training soldiers and served as a significant military installation for the Pacific Northwest region, contributing to the broader efforts of the U.S. military during a time of global conflict.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Camp Lewis was established on September 16, 1917, as part of the U.S. Army's preparations for World War I, making it a crucial training ground for troops.
2. The base was named after Meriwether Lewis, one of the leaders of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, highlighting its historical significance.
3. Camp Lewis was one of several training camps set up across the country, designed to quickly mobilize and prepare soldiers for deployment overseas.
4. In 2010, Camp Lewis was officially merged with McChord Air Force Base to form Joint Base Lewis-McChord, showing its continued relevance in military operations.
5. The establishment of Camp Lewis significantly impacted the local economy and population growth in Pierce County, Washington, during and after the war.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of Camp Lewis in 1917 influence the training and readiness of U.S. troops during World War I?
  • The establishment of Camp Lewis provided a dedicated facility for the intensive training of soldiers who were preparing to be deployed in World War I. It enabled the U.S. Army to efficiently train thousands of recruits in military tactics, weaponry, and discipline, ensuring they were combat-ready before being sent overseas. The camp's strategic location in the Pacific Northwest also allowed for easier access to transportation routes for troop movements.
• Discuss the economic and social impacts that Camp Lewis had on Pierce County after its establishment in 1917.
  • After Camp Lewis was established in 1917, Pierce County experienced significant economic growth due to increased employment opportunities and business developments catering to soldiers and military personnel. Local infrastructure improved with better roads and services supporting the influx of people. Socially, this led to a diverse community around the base as families relocated to support their loved ones in the military, creating lasting changes in the area’s demographics.
• Evaluate how the transition from Camp Lewis to Joint Base Lewis-McChord reflects broader changes in U.S. military strategy and organization since its establishment in 1917.
  • The transition from Camp Lewis to Joint Base Lewis-McChord illustrates a shift towards greater integration and collaboration among different branches of the military. This merger signifies an evolving approach to military operations that emphasizes joint exercises and combined arms strategies. As warfare became more complex and multifaceted, having a unified base allowed for streamlined operations and better resource allocation, reflecting how military strategy adapted over time since its initial establishment in 1917.

Related terms

World War I: A global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918, involving many of the world's great powers and resulting in significant changes to political borders and military strategy.

Military Training Camps: Facilities established for the purpose of training military personnel, particularly during wartime, to prepare them for active duty.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord:

A major U.S. military installation that combines facilities of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base, reflecting the evolution of military operations since its establishment.