Camp Harahan, Military training facility in Harahan, United States
Camp Harahan is a military installation near New Orleans with training grounds, administrative buildings, and support facilities for military operations. The grounds spread across several acres and were laid out specifically for training troops and coordinating movement operations.
The camp was established in 1942 and served as a key training and shipping point for over 200,000 troops during World War II. Its role as a critical staging area for the Port of New Orleans made it essential to military operations.
African-American performers like Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan took the stage here during World War II to entertain troops. These organized shows became part of daily camp life and reflected the musical culture of that era.
The installation opens Tuesday through Friday during standard business hours and operates a Post Exchange stocked with supplies for service members and families. Visitors should confirm hours before going and expect that certain areas may have restricted access.
After serving its main role as a training center, the installation also held German and Italian prisoners of war. This dual use was common for many American military bases during the conflict.
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