U.S. Army Garrison Grafenwöhr is one of the most significant and enduring American military communities in Europe, serving as a central hub for training, readiness, and forward presence since the early 1900s. Nestled in Bavaria, the garrison is best known for the expansive Grafenwöhr Training Area—one of the largest and most capable live-fire ranges used by U.S. and NATO forces. Over decades, the installation evolved from a German artillery range into a modern, multinational training complex where American units sharpen their combat skills, integrate with allied forces, and sustain the Army’s rotational presence across Europe.
Grafenwöhr’s importance extends beyond training. The garrison is a full community with housing, schools, support services, and a strong American-German partnership that has grown over generations. Its role in supporting U.S. Army Europe and Africa makes it a critical anchor point for deterrence, rapid response, and interoperability with NATO. For soldiers who have spent time there—whether during Cold War deployments or today’s rotational missions—Grafenwöhr remains a place where readiness meets tradition, and where units from across the Army come together to train, live, and build lasting ties with allies.