Fort Meade, MD: Address And Directions

Fort Meade, Maryland, is a major U.S. Army installation, home to various agencies like the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command. This article provides the official Fort Meade address, directions, and essential information for visitors and personnel.

Key Takeaways

• Fort Meade's official address is provided for accurate navigation and correspondence.
• Driving directions from major nearby cities (Baltimore and Washington D.C.) are detailed.
• Information about the base's mission, history, and key units is included.
• Security procedures and visitor access protocols are summarized.
• Answers to frequently asked questions about Fort Meade are provided.

Introduction

Fort George G. Meade, commonly known as Fort Meade, is a United States Army installation located in Maryland, between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The base is a high-security installation due to its significant role in national defense and intelligence. Knowing the correct Fort Meade address and how to get there is crucial for anyone visiting, working at, or sending mail to the base.

What & Why: Understanding Fort Meade's Importance

What is Fort Meade?

Fort Meade is a U.S. Army post established in 1917. It's named after Major General George G. Meade, a Union Army officer who commanded the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. Over the years, Fort Meade has evolved from a training camp to a major hub for intelligence and cyber operations.

Why is Fort Meade Important?

Fort Meade's significance stems from its role as headquarters for several key organizations, including:

• National Security Agency (NSA): The NSA is a signals intelligence agency responsible for global monitoring, collection, and processing of information and data for national security purposes.
• U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM): USCYBERCOM is a unified combatant command that directs and conducts military cyberspace operations.
• Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA): DISA provides information technology and communications support to the Department of Defense.
• U.S. Army Cyber Command: Oversees Army cyberspace operations and network defense.

The base also houses various other military units, law enforcement agencies, and support organizations, making it a vital center for national defense and security.

Fort Meade Address and Directions

Knowing the proper address and directions is essential for reaching Fort Meade. The official address is:

4420 Llewellyn Ave, Fort Meade, MD 20755, USA

This address is crucial for GPS navigation, mailing packages, and official correspondence. Using this address ensures accurate delivery and prevents delays.

Driving Directions

Here are driving directions from nearby major cities:

From Baltimore, MD:

1. Take I-95 South toward Washington.
2. Take exit 43A for MD-198 West toward Fort Meade.
3. Merge onto MD-198 West/Fort Meade Road.
4. Continue on MD-198 West, following signs for Fort Meade.
5. Follow the signs to your specific destination within the base.

From Washington, D.C.:

1. Take I-95 North toward Baltimore.
2. Take exit 43A for MD-198 West toward Fort Meade.
3. Merge onto MD-198 West/Fort Meade Road.
4. Continue on MD-198 West, following signs for Fort Meade.
5. Follow the signs to your specific destination within the base.

It's important to note that traffic conditions can impact travel times, especially during peak hours. Always check real-time traffic updates before your trip and allow extra time for potential delays.

Navigating Within Fort Meade

Once on the base, clear signage will help you navigate to specific buildings and units. However, Fort Meade is a large installation, so it's beneficial to have detailed instructions or a map of the base, particularly if you are visiting for the first time. You can often find maps and directories at the visitor control center or online.

Security and Base Access

Due to its critical role in national security, Fort Meade has stringent security measures in place. All visitors must adhere to these procedures to gain access to the base.

Visitor Access

• Visitor Control Center: All visitors must typically report to the Visitor Control Center (VCC) located near the main gate. Here, you will need to provide identification and the purpose of your visit.
• Identification Requirements: Valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, is required for all visitors aged 18 and over.
• Background Checks: Depending on the nature of your visit and your access requirements, a background check may be conducted.
• Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles entering Fort Meade are subject to inspection.

Security Procedures

• Restricted Areas: Certain areas within Fort Meade are restricted and require specific authorization for access. Pay attention to signage and adhere to posted regulations.
• Photography: Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Check with your host or the VCC for guidance.
• Prohibited Items: Weapons, illegal substances, and other prohibited items are not allowed on the base. A complete list of prohibited items can be obtained from the VCC.

Examples & Use Cases

Understanding how the Fort Meade address is used in real-world scenarios can help clarify its importance: — Easy Online Licenses & Certifications

• Mailing a Package: If you need to send a package to someone stationed at Fort Meade, using the official address ensures it reaches the correct destination within the base.
• Attending a Meeting: If you have a meeting at a specific building on Fort Meade, use the official address to navigate to the base and then follow internal signage to your destination.
• Visiting a Family Member: Family members visiting service members at Fort Meade need the address to program their GPS and to provide it to security personnel when entering the base.
• Official Correspondence: Government agencies, contractors, and other organizations use the official Fort Meade address for all official communications.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

To ensure a smooth visit or correspondence with Fort Meade, consider these best practices and avoid common mistakes: — Illinois Weather Radar: Track Storms & Get Updates

Best Practices

• Verify the Address: Always double-check the official address before sending mail or using GPS navigation.
• Plan Ahead: If you are visiting Fort Meade, plan your trip in advance, considering potential traffic delays and security procedures.
• Contact Your Host: If you are visiting someone on the base, communicate with them beforehand to clarify directions and any specific access requirements.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes to security procedures or access requirements by checking the official Fort Meade website or contacting the VCC.

Common Mistakes

• Using Inaccurate Addresses: Using outdated or incorrect addresses can result in mail delivery failures or difficulty navigating to the base.
• Ignoring Security Procedures: Failing to follow security procedures can lead to delays or denial of entry to Fort Meade.
• Not Allowing Enough Time: Underestimating travel time, especially during peak hours, can cause you to be late for appointments or meetings.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Fort Meade:

1. What is the zip code for Fort Meade? The zip code for Fort Meade is 20755.

2. Can I visit Fort Meade without a military ID? Yes, you can visit Fort Meade without a military ID, but you will need to go through the visitor control center and may be subject to a background check. — Federal Way, WA Zip Code: Find It & Local Info

3. What are the visiting hours for Fort Meade? Visiting hours may vary depending on the purpose of your visit and the specific location you are visiting. It's best to check with your host or the visitor control center for the most accurate information.

4. Is there public transportation to Fort Meade? Public transportation options to Fort Meade are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange for transportation.

5. What types of units are stationed at Fort Meade? Fort Meade is home to a variety of units, including cyber, intelligence, law enforcement, and support organizations, such as the NSA, USCYBERCOM, and DISA.

6. Where is the visitor control center located? The Visitor Control Center is located near the main gate of Fort Meade. Clear signage directs visitors to the VCC upon arrival.

Conclusion with CTA

Knowing the correct Fort Meade address and understanding access procedures is essential for anyone visiting, working at, or sending mail to the base. By using the official address – 4420 Llewellyn Ave, Fort Meade, MD 20755, USA – and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience. For the latest updates on base access and security protocols, please visit the official Fort Meade website or contact the Visitor Control Center directly.

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 15:30 UTC