Fort Riley, KS

Fort Riley, KS 66442 | Post Operator: DSN: 856-1110, (785) 239-2672/3911

Fort Riley: Overview

Fort Riley is the home of the 1st Infantry Division, which is known as the “Big Red One” and the “Fighting First.” The 1st Infantry Division has been in existence since 1917 and is the oldest division in the United States Army. The mission of Fort Riley is to support the 1st Infantry Division and its subordinate units.

Fort Riley was originally established in 1853 to support the military units in charge of the protection of citizens utilizing the trails heading west. During its earlier years, the installation was also utilized as a cavalry post. Fort Riley was also home at various times to the famous all-black 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments, also known as the “Buffalo Soldiers.” Many other units were stationed at Fort Riley, including the 24th Infantry Division, which was the host unit prior to the arrival of the 1st Infantry Division in 2006. This is the second time the “Big Red One” served as the host unit at Fort Riley.

Fort Riley: Education

As a member of the military, you understand how important training and education is in order to accomplish your mission. Expand your skill set while stationed at Fort Riley by earning a degree from an online school. Online schools allow you to take classes at your convenience no matter where you are. A degree is the key to your career success. Learn more by requesting information from a number of these schools. Start by clicking the "Find A School" button below:

Fort Riley: Location

This post is located in the northeastern corner of the state of Kansas in the Geary and Riley counties. The banks of the Kansas River and Milford Lake are near the borders of the post. Interstate 70 is located just to the south of Fort Riley, and a one hour drive to the east down this interstate highway will bring you into the capital of Kansas, which is, of course, Topeka. Other communities in the area include Manhattan, KS, Junction City, KS, Emporia, KS, Salina, KS, Lawrence, KS, Beatrice, NE, Ottawa, KS, Atchison, KS, Leavenworth, KS, Newton, KS, Lansing, KS, Gardner, KS, El Dorado, KS, Olathe, KS, and Shawnee, KS.

Fort Riley: Interesting Facts

The namesake of the post is Major General Bennett C. Riley. General Riley led the first military escort down the Santa Fe Trail.
General George Armstrong Custer, who is most famous for being defeated and killed in 1876 at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, was once stationed at Fort Riley.
The United States Cavalry School was officially established at Fort Riley in 1887.