Camp Blackjack is a military installation in Iraq, located at Baghdad International Airport. Named after the Black Jack Brigade which is also known as the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, the base was a key strategic point for coalition forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The base was part of the larger Victory Base Complex, a cluster of installations around Baghdad International Airport. This complex was one of the primary logistics and command hubs for U.S. forces during their presence in Iraq.
During its operational years, Camp Blackjack hosted thousands of U.S. troops and coalition forces. Given its location within the Victory Base Complex and close proximity to Baghdad International Airport, it was often one of the first points of entry for service members deploying into Iraq.
The facilities at Camp Blackjack included housing units, dining facilities, and recreation amenities for the soldiers stationed there. The base also included command centers and logistical operations necessary for maintaining the U.S. presence and operations in and around Baghdad.
As with many U.S. military installations in Iraq, Camp Blackjack was eventually handed back to the Iraqi government as U.S. forces reduced their footprint in the country. The handover was part of the larger U.S. strategy of transitioning security responsibilities to Iraqi forces.
The current status of Camp Blackjack is tied to the ongoing political and security developments in Iraq. After the withdrawal of U.S. troops, many former U.S. bases were repurposed by the Iraqi military or other government agencies.