Commanding General's Welcome
As the commanding general of Fort Bliss, let me be the first to welcome you and your family. Currently, we are immersed in the biggest transformation in our 160-year history, with a projected 300% population increase by 2012. The population increase corresponds to re-stationing one generation of several brigade combat teams, the 1st Armored Division headquarters and numerous supporting units. The Army is investing $5 billion in construction for new, top-of-the-line facilities for incoming personnel and their Families.
Fort Bliss is unique among Army installations in that our main post is located in the metropolitan city of El Paso, Texas, while 90% of our training lands and several base camps are located in New Mexico. We're also unique in that a large proportion of our military housing is located off-post in the community, which brings both benefits and challenges for our Soldiers. Although El Paso consistently scores in the top five of the safest cities in the U.S., its neighbor on the other side of the border, Juarez is currently off-limits for all military personnel and we strongly discourage civilians from visiting. El Paso is the third fastest growing city in the nation, and the 22nd largest in population. The population is majority Hispanic, and according to a 2007 survey, 74% of El Paso residents speak Spanish at home, even if they speak English as well. El Paso has mild to hot weather year-round, a low crime rate, an economical cost of living, a community college and a university, excellent medical facilities, an international airport, and a wealth of cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. The people of El Paso are also very supportive and welcoming to our service members.
From Aug. 5 to 7, we will have a Senior-Leader On-site for incoming battalion commanders, command sergeants major, directors and above, and their spouses. The on-site will provide an overview of Fort Bliss and what's available. We will also host a Senior Leader Off-Site from Sept. 25 to 27. The off-site is for brigade commanders, command sergeants major, directors and above, and their spouses. Until then, you can find out more about Fort Bliss and the surrounding area on our web site at www.bliss.army.mil. Again, welcome to Team Bliss – Strength of our Army, Pride of the Southwest. I look forward to your arrival and working together in the future.
Major General Dana J.H. Pittard
Commanding General, Fort Bliss and 1AD
Vision
One of DoD's flagship installations comprised of state-of-the-art training areas, ranges, and facilities; led by adaptive, innovative, and warrior focused professionals concentrated on individual and unit readiness, leaders development, deployment, security, and the well-being of Team Bliss.
Mission
Team Bliss trains, sustains, mobilizes, and deploys members of the joint team to conduct global, full spectrum operations in support of the national military strategy, while providing for the well-being of the regional military community.