Quarters One

S ince 1908, Quarters One has served as the “Home of the Army” as well as the Chief of Staff’s residence. Thirty great Army leaders have called this special residence “home,” and Linda and I are honored and humbled to follow in their footsteps. In 1903, Congress eliminated the post of the Commanding General of the Army and authorized the formation of a General Staff Corps, creating the position of the Chief of Staff of the Army. This position was established to plan for all contingencies and strategies in the event of a future war. For over one hundred years, Quarters One has been home to the illustrious military leaders who safely guided our Nation’s defense. Their guests have been equally famous, including Marshal JosephJacques-Césaire Joffre, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, President Lyndon B. Johnson, and, a favorite entertainer of generations of Soldiers, Bob Hope. Many past residents have left their mark in subtle and profound ways on Quarters One. The first Army Chief to live here was Major General J. Franklin Bell. During his tenure, he added the stately dining room, which is an impressive space and important gathering place for our guests. He understood then how deeply significant a shared meal was to building relationships and camaraderie. General Bell’s portrait currently hangs in the library on the first floor and serves as a prominent focal point in the room. As a Medal of Honor recipient and combat veteran, he reminds us of the heroism and selfless service that so many of our Soldiers demonstrate today in their dedication to our Nation. Their strength is a constant driving force during a time of uncertainty and historic change. Quarters One, situated on historic Fort Myer, has witnessed numerous notable events since its completion in 1899. During the early years, the Wright brothers’ aerial demonstrations led to the inception of Army aviation. Then, most recently, Fort Myer merged with the U.S. Marine Corps’ Henderson Hall to form a joint base, achieving unity of effort and efficiencies. Between it all, Fort Myer has been home to many of our Nation’s most senior military leaders. This rich heritage received its due recognition in 1973 when Quarters One was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark. From the many generous donations of gifts and memorabilia that decorate rooms throughout the house to the portraits of former Army Chiefs and their Families that line the hallways, each piece contributes to telling the story of the residents who have lived here. Quarters One residents have played a significant role in our Nation’s history and are responsible for today’s Army—the most versatile, agile, rapidly deployable, and sustainable strategic land force in the world. Similarly, as this booklet describes, each resident has made Quarters One an Army home, and, in turn, Quarters One has enriched the lives of each resident. Linda and I invite you to enjoy the rich history captured on these pages and see that throughout time: “The Strength of our Nation has always been our Army. The Strength of our Army has always been our Soldiers. The Strength of our Soldiers has always been our Families. This is what makes us Army Strong!” 3 Quarters One—Our Family’s Home W elcome to Quarters One, the “Home of the Army,” and the home to Army Chiefs of Staff and their Families since 1908. Ray and I feel very blessed and honored to reside in Quarters One and to represent all Soldiers, their spouses, and Families.

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