Redstone Arsenal

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Redstone Arsenal Guide

Redstone Arsenal got its name from the Paleo-Indian weapon point which was first dug and identified in more than 650 archaeological spots within the vicinity.

Right after the Second World War, German-American rocket scientist Wernher Von Braun, a prominent figure in Germany’s rocket technology during the Nazi regime, was transported together with some select members of his group to the United States. His mission was to take charge of a secret program called Operation Paperclip using several facilities inside Redstone Arsenal. He spearheaded the US Army’s intermediate range ballistic missile and was the main architect of the super-booster that launched the Apollo to the moon.

Surrounding Area

Right beside this installation is the Alabama’s Space and Rocket Center which showcases an amazing pool of rockets, missiles, and space vehicles. In addition, the Space Dome Theater which is now an IMAX Theater, the U.S. Space Camp Training Center, and the Huntsville Marriott Hotel are all within the vicinity of the museum. Other units that can be found inside Redstone Arsenal are the U.S. Army Missile Command and the Army Ordnance Missile and Munitions Center.

Shopping and Amenities

The Redstone Arsenal Exchange complex is a mall-type facility with restaurants and other shopping amenities. It is accessibly located inside Gate 8 just off Goss Road. A One-Stop Express offers grocery items and a wide selection of food. Alcoholic drinks, video rentals, and a gas station are also available.

For individuals who are into aquatic health, the Redstone Aquatics Center on Aerobee Road is open on weekdays and Saturdays. Fitness buffs can enjoy exercise equipment and free weights at Sparksman Fitness Center, Pagano Gym, and Col Scott Fitness Center. Health fanatics will enjoy running on the newly-paved community trail. The trail provides an airy wooded wilderness that offers a variety of running courses. Challenging terrains and scenic views await joggers of all ages.

Entertainment and Recreation

Families and friends will definitely enjoy the outdoor recreation that is provided by Redstone Arsenal’s three parks: Vincent Park, Carroll D. Hudson Park, and Easter Posey Park. A hunting permit is necessary for individuals or groups who love to rough it up in the woods. For fishing enthusiasts, these parks also provide angling amenities 7 days a week. Golfers will have a field day on the 36 exciting holes located at Redstone Golf Course. People who do not arrive prepared will still be able to play golf thanks to the wide selection of clubs and gold apparel available at the Pro Shop.

There is a regular lineup of entertaining events happening each year inside Redstone Arsenal. Some of the most popular occasions inside the camp include the Annual Oktoberfest, Salute to the Military, Holiday Tree Lighting, Month of the Military Child, Block party, Army Concert Tour, and the much awaited US Army Soldier Show. The latter is a 90-minute high energy musical performed by active duty soldiers.

Education and Healthcare

Redstone Arsenal has amazing educational centers. Take for example the Spouse Education, Training, and Career Center at Redeye Road. The facility helps service personnel spouses find productive things to do for themselves. There is also a Hospital/Medical Treatment Facility right up Goss Road and the Fox Army Health Clinic which provide quality healthcare for people living in the vicinity. For young children, the Total Tots Program Child Development Center offers great pre-school training modules. There is a school bus transport system that has daily scheduled routes from housing areas to designated schools. The University of Alabama in Huntsville is just a short drive from Redstone Arsenal.

Housing and Lodging

Redstone Arsenal community housing is available for personnel who are assigned to the installation. There is usually a waiting list which takes 30 days but sometimes it can stretch up to 90 days depending on availability. However, there are a lot of affordable apartments located right outside the installation. Temporary lodging is also available at Hotel Redstone from 14:00 to 18:00 hours. Redstone Arsenal has all the necessary amenities for a quiet, self-sufficient municipality. It is quite easy to settle and grow in this welcoming community.