High School Athletes Face the Ultimate Army Challenge At Fort Hood This Week

Two events in central Texas this week give both students and the general public a look inside Fort Hood. 

 Action and Exploration: Fort Hood Welcomes Texas Students and Public for USAE 2026 

This week, the gates of Fort Hood are opening to thousands of visitors as the installation hosts two major back-to-back events designed to showcase the capabilities, careers, and culture of the United States Army. From March 25–27, high school students from across the state will descend on the base for U.S. Army Experience (USAE) 2026, followed by a community-wide Phantom Family Open House. 

USAE 2026: Testing the Next Generation 

The three-day USAE event brings together students from Dallas, Houston, and Central Texas for a dual-track experience. For those looking for a physical challenge, the Basic Training Challenge will put approximately 1,500 student-athletes through the ringer. Among the participants are the DeSoto High School Eagles football team, fresh off three Class 6A state championships. Under the watchful eyes of former III Armored Corps drill sergeants, these athletes will endure a simulated "Day One" of Basic Combat Training, testing their mental and physical limits. 

USAE Career Expo 

The Career Expo provides a more academic look at military life. Students can explore an array of high-tech military hardware, including the M1 Abrams main battle tank and the AH-64 Apache helicopter. The expo aims to highlight the various educational and career pathways available within the modern Army, ranging from engineering to aviation. 

Phantom Family Open House 

As the student events wrap up on March 27, Fort Hood will welcome the general public to Sadowski Field for the Phantom Family Open House. This free event will give families a rare, up-close look at “America’s Hammer” from 2p to 7p. Static displays of premier military equipment, including Bradley Fighting Vehicles, will be on site. Those without a Department of Defense ID card must obtain a visitor pass online through the official Fort Hood portal before arriving at the installation.