Fort Meade Colors

Welcome

Maryland has historically played a significant role in the nation's military history, with military commands performing critical functions and the business community providing integral support to the nation's endeavors. Today, as the result of 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) decisions,

The 2005 BRAC process focused on transforming the U.S. military into a more efficient, more effective and more adaptable operation. The Department of Defense operations that came to Maryland as the result of BRAC have enhanced the State's already-significant role in defending the nation and brought new research and technology to Maryland's military installations.

Among the moves:

  • The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), which provides complete information technology services to the Department of Defense, moved its headquarters to Fort Meade.
  • The Army’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operation (Team C4ISR) – which services the Army’s maneuver control, fire support, air defense, intelligence, combat service support, tactical radios, satellite communications and the Warfighter Information Network – moved to Aberdeen Proving Ground.
  • Walter Reed Army Medical Center’s operations were consolidated with those of the National Naval Medical Center, forming the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. The new medical center includes the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, researching and treating post-traumatic stress disorders and traumatic brain injuries.

In addition, both the expansion of the National Security Agency and the stand-up of the U.S. Cyber Command – both of which are located on the campus of Fort Meade – enhanced the state’s prowess in cybersecurity and intelligence activities.

For the nation, the 2005 BRAC actions prepared the U.S. military for the 21st century and beyond. For Maryland, BRAC enhanced the state’s diverse, knowledge-based economy; expanded the prominent role of Maryland’s military bases in homeland security; and underpinned the state’s exceptional quality of life