Fort Drum, New York 2025

Fort Drum, located in upstate New York' ‘s picturesque Thousand Islands region, it is home to the 10th Mountain Division, one of the Army's premier light infantry units. Due to its remote location and harsh winter climate, the Division trains soldiers for mountain and arctic warfare. Established in 1908, Fort Drum has a rich cultural heritage. It was here that Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders trained.

Fort Drum is home to about 20,000 soldiers and family members. Soldiers and their families come from all over the world to experience the unique quality of life Fort Drum has to offer. It is also the largest employer in the county, with civilian and military positions.

Fort Drum is located in Lewis County, and its nearby small towns offer big hospitality- "A New York State of Mind" is alive and well. Fort Drum celebrates Mountainfest, a week-long celebration honoring the 10th Mountain Division, with family-friendly entertainment, food, and sporting events, and a block party that concludes the festival. Local favorite events include Oktoberfest, American Music Series, and Old Home Days.

The Tug Hill Plateau is a choice location for outdoor activities (hunting, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing). Natural beauty abounds in the Adirondacks, the Thousand Islands, the Adirondack Seaway, and the Saint Lawrence River. At the New York State Zoo, visitors can see animals from around the world. The non-profit zoo is dedicated to educating visitors of all ages about wildlife.

The region is famous for maple syrup, cheese, and wine. Visit the Maple Hill Farms and try the maple syrup. Visit one of the many wineries in the Thousand Islands region. Fine dining can be found in the Village of Sackets Harbor.

An area rich in history, the town of Hammond has historical buildings, and a museum. It is here that Harry Houdini escaped from handcuffs while upside down in a straight jacket while submerged in the Saint Lawrence River. An African-American museum is in nearby Philadelphia. A log cabin museum, an artist center, art festivals, and agricultural fairs are found in Croghan.

The 10th Mountain Division soldiers come from all over the country. Military personnel, civilians, and their families come from all over the world to enjoy the quality of life of Fort Drum. People of many ethnic backgrounds live here, including multi-generational families of German, Italian, and Irish heritage.

Among the many advancements made during the war was the development of the Dodge family's Weasel, an amphibious vehicle designed to move soldiers across rivers and wet terrain. Developed by General Dodge, the vehicle became invaluable in the Apennines. The 10th Mountain soldier wore a unique combat uniform in Italy, where they received their baptism under fire. It featured an unusual coat and pants that were striped in white and red mottled camouflage (seen in A Company, 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment photo at left).