Center

for

Training

During World War II, Cape Henlopen came under military control, becoming Fort Miles. During this period, Fort Miles played an integral role in the Harbor Defenses of the Delaware Bay. The fort protected industry in Wilmington and Philadelphia with an innovative range of artillery and a remote-controlled minefield. Following the war, the U.S. Army maintained control of the land at Cape Henlopen, primarily using it as a recreational facility for soldiers, veterans, and their families.

In 1961, the Army deemed a portion of Fort Miles surplus, giving a majority of land to the U.S. Navy. The Navy then created a new Naval Facility, known as NAVFAC Lewes. This facility housed the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS), used to detect enemy submarines throughout the Cold War. The Naval Reserve Center took over the NAVFAC Lewes building in 1981, and used it as an administrative and training facility. Later rededicated as the Biden Environmental Training Center in 1998, the building continues to serve as a headquarters for learning.