Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri
Votes
2012 Best Small Towns in America
Contest ended: May 16, 2012
16 Votes - "Most Patriotic"
2 Votes - "Most Beautiful"
Description
Fort Leonard Wood is a community of soldiers, civilian volunteers, and veterans alike surrounding one of the most prominent Army posts. The town is home to the U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center (MANSCEN). The small town is united in patriotism and demonstrates service both overseas and in emergencies on American soil. The people demonstrate sacrifice in their response to natural disasters, having rebuilt their own community after a tornado for example.
Fort Leonard Wood covers more than 62,911 acres of land – 53,995 is used for chemical, engineer, military police, transportation soldiers, airmen, sailors, and international student training.
Visitors can tour the Fort or attend a graduation or welcome home ceremony to witness the support this community shows for the base. You can also visit the Pine Valley Golf Course, Frog Rock, or Mark Twain National Forest. St. Louis is a two-hour drive, while Springfield is about an hour and a half drive from Fort Leonard Wood.
The Road Rally team found locals had overflowing pride in their country and overwhelming support for those serving in the military. Captain and Clark said this is “a town that from the museums to the barracks would escort you through a thorough and deep understanding of what it means to be an American soldier and the honor that comes with it.”
Reviews
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I grew up on Fort Leonard Wood in the 50ties. My father was stationed there for the last of his over 20 years in the army before he retired to Waynesville, Missouri.
We first in a trailer in "Lieber Heights", then in a so-called "cracker box house" and then in the newly built houses on 145 Parrish Street. My dad is buried at the Fort Leonard Wood cemetary. On the 15th of May 2012 he would have been 100 years old. Of course my father is a veteran of World War II. He served in North Africa, Italy, Austria and Germany.
Salve - Pax - Bless - on May 17, 2012
- I grew up in this town and recently returned for my grandmothers funeral. Only here do you see military flags fly in local stores. Only here do you find a place where the military is respected and citizens treat each other with respect. After visiting, my husband stated he wanted this type of town to raise our girls. I love FLW and the surrounding towns...
- on May 14, 2012
- I have never seen more patriotic people in one small area. I am amazed at all the retired people in this community. And the businesses have a small town feeling though it is growing.
- on May 9, 2012
- Wonderful small town atmosphere and one of the most diverse towns I've ever been too, How can you be more patriotic than a place that is home to one of the most premier US Army Installations in the world.
- on May 9, 2012
- Its beautiful and tranquil
- on May 9, 2012
