US Army's high level V Corps command reactivated at Fort Knox

FORT KNOX, Ky. (WDRB) -- A senior-level U.S. Army command with a 100-year history was reactivated at Fort Knox during a Friday morning ceremony.

The V Corps, also known as the 5th Corps, has not been in an active status since 2013 in Wiesbaden, Germany. The command of about 600 soldiers will be one of four Army corps headquarters, and its mission will be centered on supporting U.S. interests in Europe.

"I think Ft. Knox has a lot of the attributes that are necessary to house a headquarters of this type, and allow us to project forces over to Europe," said Commanding General John Kolasheski.

Lt. Gen. Kolasheski began his career at Ft. Knox 31 years ago - and is now in charge of rebuilding V Corps.

"It is getting the people here, receiving them, getting them settled, getting their families settled, getting the equipment from across the Army," he said.

In a statement, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the V Corps will bring $58 million in payroll to the area.

"There's only four corps headquarters in the Army, and one of them is now here at Fort Knox. So it's great for Ft. Knox, but also great for the community," said Retired Brig. Gen. Jim Iacocca, CEO of the Knox Regional Development Alliance.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell called it "a big day" for the post, adding that the V Corps' mission in Europe remains extremely important, given recent behavior by Russia.

"Kentucky stands prepared to support the 5th Corps and its role in this effort," he said.

Lt. Gen. John Kolasheski is the new commander of the V Corps. He says he started his military career at Ft. Knox. pic.twitter.com/OEop4QICsj
— Lawrence Smith (@LASmithReports) October 16, 2020