LITTLE CREEK BASE

• Latitude: 36.9196
• Longitude: -76.171
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: Virginia Beach VA 23459 US

Little Creek Base, formally known as Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLC-FS), is a prominent military installation located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, USA. Little Creek Base plays a crucial role in the operations of the United States Navy and various other branches of the military, particularly those involved in amphibious warfare, logistics, and expeditionary operations. Below is a detailed description and specification overview of the Little Creek Base:

General Description:

• Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
• Coordinates: Approximately 36.91°N, 76.17°W
• Type: Joint Expeditionary Base
• Operational Command: U.S. Navy

History and Purpose:

• Established: Originally commissioned in 1942 as a training site for amphibious landings during World War II.
• Mission: To support the training, equipping, and deployment of expeditionary and amphibious forces.

Infrastructure and Facilities:

• Port Facilities: The base features several piers and berthing areas designed to accommodate a variety of naval vessels, including amphibious assault ships, dock landing ships, and smaller craft.
• Training Grounds: Includes extensive training areas both on land and in Chesapeake Bay, facilitating a wide range of military exercises and amphibious operations.
• Runways and Helipads: Reflecting its joint nature, Little Creek Base is equipped with airstrips and helipads for rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft supporting naval operations.

Units and Tenants:

• Naval Amphibious Forces: The base supports units such as the Amphibious Construction Battalion, Beachmaster Unit, and various elements of the Naval Beach Group.
• Special Operations Forces: Host to units of the U.S. Navy SEALs, Special Boat Teams, and Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units.
• Joint Commands: Facilities are shared with other branches of the U.S. military, including elements of the Marine Corps, Army, and Air Force.

Port Specifications:

• Depth: Accommodates vessels with significant draft, suitable for a variety of naval ships up to medium-sized vessels.
• Berthing: Several piers available for docking and servicing naval and support vessels.
• Loading/Unloading Facilities: Equipped with cranes, ramps, and other machinery to facilitate the rapid loading and unloading of troops, vehicles, and equipment.
• Security: High-security measures in place including restricted access, patrols, and surveillance systems to ensure the safety and operational integrity of the base.

Support and Services:

• Logistical Support: Comprehensive logistics services including fuel, ordnance storage, and maintenance facilities for various military assets.
• Medical Facilities: On-base medical treatment facilities capable of handling both routine care and emergency services.
• Housing and Amenities: Residential and recreational facilities for military personnel and their families including housing, dining, fitness centers, and recreational areas.

Environmental and Community Impact:

• Conservation Efforts: Measures in place to protect the surrounding natural environment, particularly Chesapeake Bay.
• Community Relations: The base maintains strong ties with the local Virginia Beach community, participating in public events, and contributing to regional economic activity.

Strategic Importance:

• Location: Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and major naval installations in the Hampton Roads area enhances the strategic value of Little Creek Base.
• Readiness: Provides a vital training and operational hub for deploying amphibious and expeditionary forces in response to global contingencies.

In summary, Little Creek Base is a versatile and strategically vital installation that plays a significant role in the readiness and effectiveness of the United States' naval and expeditionary forces. Its comprehensive infrastructure and diverse capabilities make it an indispensable asset in the U.S. military's operational repertoire.