About this Unit
Presidio Garrison traces its roots to the late 18th century, when Spanish colonial forces established a fortified post at the Presidio of San Francisco in 1776 to defend the northern frontier of New Spain. Over the centuries, the garrison evolved under Mexican and later American control, playing significant roles during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War as a key coastal defense installation. In the 20th century, Presidio Garrison oversaw logistics and training operations during both World Wars and served as headquarters for the Sixth U.S. Army. The unit's legacy continues today through its historical contributions to national defense and military heritage.
Historical Facts
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Historic Origins: The Presidio Garrison, originally established by the Spanish in 1776, is one of the oldest continually operated military posts in the United States, predating American independence.
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Spanish to American Control: After the Mexican-American War in 1846, the Presidio Garrison was taken over by the United States Army, marking a pivotal transition from Spanish and then Mexican rule.
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Civil War Role: During the American Civil War, the Presidio served as a key staging ground for Union troops sent to secure California and the West Coast from Confederate threats.
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World War II Hub: The Presidio Garrison played a critical role in World War II as the headquarters for the Western Defense Command, orchestrating coastal defenses and overseeing Japanese American internment orders.
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Buffalo Soldiers: African American regiments known as "Buffalo Soldiers" were stationed at the Presidio in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to the protection and expansion of national parks.
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Earthquake Response: After the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake, Presidio troops were instrumental in rescue operations, fire fighting, and maintaining law and order in the city.
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Crissy Field: Part of the Presidio, Crissy Field was established as a military airfield in 1921 and was a critical early base for Army aviation experiments and coastal defense.
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Medical Milestone: The Letterman Army Hospital at the Presidio became one of the largest military hospitals in the country, treating wounded soldiers from the Spanish-American War through the Vietnam War.
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Cold War Activities: During the Cold War, the Presidio Garrison housed intelligence and defense units, including the Sixth Army headquarters, playing a role in continental defense.
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Transition to National Park: In 1994, the Presidio Garrison was decommissioned as an active military post, becoming part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and transforming into a unique blend of historic site, park, and urban community.
