In Honor of Veterans Day - Why JBLM is Critical to the Puget Sound Area

 In Honor of Veterans Day - Why JBLM is Critical to the Puget Sound Area


Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) is much more than just a military installation; it’s a cornerstone of the Puget Sound region, influencing everything from the local economy to community life and national defense. Located between Tacoma and Olympia in Washington State, JBLM plays a vital role in the lives of residents, businesses, and the government, acting as both a key economic driver and a strategic asset.  As a local Tacoma Realtor, I'm responsible for ensuring our active and retired military veterans have safe and accessible homes in our area. It is always my honor to represent our leaders in uniform. 



1. Economic Impact


JBLM is one of the largest military bases in the United States and one of the region’s most significant employers. The base itself supports tens of thousands of active-duty military personnel, civilians, and contractors, generating substantial economic activity. The salaries paid to these workers have a ripple effect throughout the region, with many local businesses relying on the base for revenue. 


The surrounding areas see the direct benefits of JBLM through job creation, housing demand, and retail spending. Construction companies thrive as they build and maintain base housing and infrastructure, while service-based industries, such as healthcare, education, and food services, find robust demand due to the base’s ongoing needs. Additionally, with its proximity to major cities like Tacoma and Olympia, JBLM supports an even broader network of businesses that service military families and employees, including banks, schools, restaurants, and more.


2. Strategic Military Role


JBLM plays a key role in U.S. national defense, making it a critical asset not just for the state of Washington, but for the entire nation. The base houses several major military units, including the 7th Infantry Division, 1st Special Forces Group, and I Corps, which is responsible for overseeing Army operations in the Pacific region. These units are essential to the U.S. military’s readiness to respond to global crises and national security needs.


JBLM’s strategic location on the West Coast provides a rapid deployment capability to areas of conflict, ensuring that U.S. forces can quickly mobilize in times of need. The base also serves as a training hub for military personnel, with expansive training facilities that simulate real-world combat conditions, preparing soldiers for missions anywhere in the world. Additionally, JBLM supports emergency response efforts in the Pacific Northwest, reinforcing its importance in both defense and disaster preparedness.


3. Community Integration


JBLM’s influence extends beyond its military operations; it plays an active role in the local community. The base’s personnel are integrated into the fabric of daily life in the surrounding areas. Many service members and their families live in nearby communities, contributing to the region’s cultural diversity and vibrancy. They also participate in local events, sports leagues, schools, and volunteer activities, making them an essential part of the social ecosystem.


Moreover, JBLM offers numerous services to its personnel and their families, including healthcare, housing assistance, and educational programs. This support system helps military families thrive, while also fostering goodwill and collaboration between the base and civilian populations. The local community, in turn, benefits from the presence of a disciplined and skilled workforce.


4. Infrastructure and Development


The growth of JBLM has driven significant improvements in the surrounding infrastructure, benefiting both military and civilian populations. The base’s presence has led to the development of roads, public services, and residential areas, increasing the overall quality of life for those living near the base. Towns like Lakewood and DuPont have seen rapid growth due to the influx of military families, with new schools, hospitals, and retail centers being built to accommodate the growing population.


Local governments and private developers have invested heavily in infrastructure projects that improve connectivity between the base and nearby cities. This investment strengthens the region’s economy and ensures that JBLM remains easily accessible for both military personnel and civilians.


5. Environmental Stewardship


JBLM is also committed to preserving the region’s natural resources. The base is involved in a variety of environmental initiatives aimed at protecting local wildlife habitats, wetlands, and forested areas. Through responsible land management practices, JBLM helps maintain the ecological health of the Puget Sound area, ensuring that the region's natural beauty and biodiversity remain intact for future generations.


Additionally, the base has collaborated with local environmental groups and government agencies on conservation efforts and has set a precedent for environmental sustainability in military operations.



JBLM is a linchpin for the Puget Sound area, contributing significantly to the local economy, security, and community life. Its military significance ensures that the U.S. remains prepared to defend its interests, while its economic and infrastructure contributions strengthen the region’s growth and prosperity. JBLM’s integration into the local community and its commitment to environmental stewardship also make it an essential part of the region's identity. As both a strategic military hub and a vital economic engine, JBLM’s importance to the Puget Sound cannot be overstated.


As always, if I can help you or a Veteran brother or sister buy or list a home in Tacoma or anywhere in the Puget Sound, please text or call me at (206) 643-8845 or connect with me at www.erikmolzen@bhhsnw.com


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Location: Lakewood, WA, USA

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