Fort Detrick: Military Base Guide

ABOUT FORT DETRICK

 

Located in central Maryland, Fort Detrick is home to the U.S. Army Medical Research and Material Command (USAMRMC). Established in the 1930s, what was once pastoral farmland was transformed into Area A (the main base area) and The Farm (test areas). The base is now home to the Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (AMRIID) and the National Cancer Institute. Fort Detrick is the epicenter of biomedical research and hosted biological warfare research and development in its early years. These controversial programs were discontinued in 1970, but the lore remains, and many contagion-themed movies and TV dramas are set at Fort Detrick.

While choosing where to live can be daunting, the great news is that once settled, most people love their bubbles! School choices, especially in Northern Virginia, are abundant, and career opportunities abound as D.C. is host to professionals in various fields.

Commuting to and from Walter Reed in Bethesda is also something to consider, depending on what you or your service member's job requires. Just be aware that 40 miles separate Fort Detrick and Forest Glen Annex. Forest Glen Annex, in Silver Spring, is under Fort Detrick's command but is located on the Walter Reed complex.

 

KEY CONTACTS

 

Housing Division

— Community Support Center, 1520 Freedman Dr. Room 202, Fort Detrick, MD 21702 — PH: (204) 379-6410

Detrick Homes

— 6000 Ditto Ave., Frederick, MD 21702 — PH: (240) 379-6518, (855) 969-4210

School Liaison Office

— 949 A Sultan Drive, BLDG 949, Fort Detrick, MD 21702 — PH: (301) 619-7143

Army Community Service

— Community Support Center, 1520 Freedman Dr. Room 124, Fort Detrick, MD 21702 — PH: (301) 619-2197

Note: Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.

Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time.