Brown Parade Field, Huachuca Mountains Travel Guide

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Experience military history firsthand at Fort Huachuca's Brown Parade Field, where the Old West meets the modern Army.

Step back in time at Brown Parade Field, the historic heart of Fort Huachuca. This meticulously preserved field has witnessed over a century of military ceremonies and drills, embodying the legacy of the U.S. Army in the Southwest and the famed Buffalo Soldiers.

A brief summary to Brown Parade Field

Adair, Fort Huachuca, Fort Huachuca, Arizona, 85613, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Brown Parade Field.

Check the Fort Huachuca MWR website for upcoming events on Brown Parade Field, such as holiday celebrations or historical reenactments.
Visit the Fort Huachuca Historical Museum and the U.S. Army Intelligence Museum to learn more about the post's history and significance.
Attend the daily Retreat ceremony at 4:30 pm to witness the lowering of the flag and the firing of the 'sunset guns'.

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Explore Brown Parade Field on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Brown Parade Field, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Sierra Vista, take AZ-90 west towards Fort Huachuca. At the intersection of AZ Highway 90 to the North, Highway 90 Bypass to the East, Buffalo Soldier Trail to the South, and Hatfield Street to the West, drive west on Hatfield toward the Van Deman Gate (East Gate). Note that all visitors aged 18 and older who do not have a recognized access badge will need to complete an Access Request Form and submit to a background check in order to get a 30-day visitor badge at the Van Deman Gate. Plan to allow 15-30 minutes for the background check. Continue west on Hatfield for about 3 miles to Smith Ave. and then turn right on to Smith Ave. At about 0.25 mi, pass through the traffic circle and take the first exit to continue on Smith Ave. Brown Parade Field will be on the left. Parking: Free parking is available near Brown Parade Field. Limited parking can be expected during special events.
Public Transport

Vista Transit operates on a limited schedule on weekdays. Service is provided Monday-Fridays 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Currently, it is free to ride all Vista Transit buses. Schedules detailing local community routes, are available at the Soldier & Family Readiness Center.
Taxi/Shuttle

From anywhere in Sierra Vista or Fort Huachuca, taxi and shuttle services are available to Brown Parade Field. Huachuca Taxi and Shuttle is recommended and can be contacted at 520-439-0439. It is always best to call for a reservation when requiring shuttle transportation. Typical cost: A short trip within Fort Huachuca or Sierra Vista will likely cost between $3 and $25.

Discover more about Brown Parade Field

Brown Parade Field stands as a testament to Fort Huachuca's rich history and enduring significance. For over 120 years, this field has served as the stage for countless military ceremonies, drills, and exercises, embodying the spirit of the U.S. Army in the Southwest. Named after Brigadier General William C. Brown, who commanded the post and the 10th Cavalry, the field evokes the echoes of yesterday, reminding today's soldiers of the traditions they uphold.As the central point of the Old Post area, a designated National Historic Landmark, Brown Parade Field is surrounded by buildings that retain their historical appearance. The field was the heart of post life during the era of horse soldiers. Structures like the Post Commander's quarters (Pershing House), the Old Post Barracks, Leonard Wood Hall (the former hospital), and General's Row, which still serves as officer housing, border the field, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.Brown Parade Field is more than just a historical site; it's an active space where the traditions of the U.S. Army Cavalry are kept alive. Official ceremonies continue to take place on the field, often featuring presentations by the mounted B Troop Cavalry in full historic uniforms. The field also hosts special events throughout the year, such as holiday celebrations and evenings on the green, offering a blend of history and community. The flagpole at Brown Parade Field stands at an altitude of 200 feet under a mile-high above sea-level. The two black cannons sitting on each side at the base are former “sunset guns” which were fired at the “Retreat” ceremony each afternoon when the flag was lowered. These former Civil War 3-inch ordinance rifles are placed on metal stands and were modified in the early 1900s to load from the breech instead of the muzzle. The World War II-era howitzers on either side of the flagpole's base now fill the “sunset gun” role for the ceremony, held at 4:30 pm each afternoon, though the sound is from a recording and the guns do not fire.