Kenner Army Hospital

• World War II Origins: Kenner Army Hospital was established during World War II at Fort Lee, Virginia, in 1941, originally as a temporary medical facility to support the rapidly expanding military base. • Named After a Medical Pioneer: The hospital is named in honor of Major General Albert W. Kenner, a decorated U.S. Army medical officer who served as Chief Medical Officer for the European Theater during World War II. • Rapid Construction: The original Kenner Hospital was constructed in just 90 days, a testament to the urgency of wartime mobilization and the U.S. Army’s engineering capabilities. • Post-War Expansion: After World War II, Kenner Army Hospital expanded its facilities and services to care for veterans and the growing military community at Fort Lee. • Vietnam War Support: During the Vietnam War, Kenner Army Hospital played a key role in supporting the medical needs of soldiers returning from overseas deployments. • Modernization: In 1962, a new, modern hospital building was opened, replacing the original World War II-era structures and greatly expanding the hospital’s capacity. • Community Outreach: Kenner Army Hospital was known for its outreach programs, including medical training, immunizations, and health education for both military personnel and local civilians. • Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC): As part of the 1995 BRAC process, Kenner Army Hospital was downsized to an outpatient clinic in 1996, with inpatient services shifting to other military medical centers. • Disaster Response: The hospital provided critical support during natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, serving as a medical hub for both military and civilian emergency response. • Legacy of Training: Kenner Army Hospital was a primary site for the training of Army medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and medics, who would go on to serve in conflicts around the world.