FORT RILEY Meaning and
Definition
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Fort Riley is a United States Army installation located in North Central Kansas. It was established in 1853, originally named Camp Center, and later renamed in honor of Major General Bennett C. Riley, a distinguished military leader.
As a military base, Fort Riley serves as a training center and operations headquarters for various military units and personnel. It encompasses a vast area of land, approximately 101,733 acres, and provides facilities and infrastructure to support the training, deployment, and sustainment of soldiers.
Fort Riley is primarily known for being home to the 1st Infantry Division, also known as the "Big Red One," which is one of the oldest and most illustrious divisions in the United States Army. It has played significant roles in various conflicts throughout history, including World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War.
The installation offers a wide range of resources and amenities to its military community, including housing, schools, healthcare facilities, recreational areas, and shopping centers. These amenities aim to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for service members and their families.
Additionally, Fort Riley hosts various training exercises and joint operations with allied nations, contributing to the development and enhancement of military capabilities and interoperability.
In summary, Fort Riley is a prominent U.S. Army base located in Kansas, serving as a hub for military operations, training, and support activities, and being home to the esteemed 1st Infantry Division.
Etymology of FORT RILEY
The word "Fort Riley" has the following etymology:
- Fort: The word "fort" comes from Old French "forte" meaning "strong", which ultimately derives from Latin "fortis". It is related to other words such as "fortify" and "fortress" that refer to a strong defensive structure.
- Riley: The name "Riley" is of Irish origin and is derived from the Irish surname Ó Raghallaigh, which means "descendant of Raghallach". Raghallach was an ancient Irish personal name, composed of the elements "ragh", meaning "race" or "assembly", and "gal", meaning "valor" or "bravery".
So, the name "Fort Riley" combines the concept of a strong military fortification with a surname of Irish origin.
