garnison

Garnison is the term used in several languages to refer to a garrison: a body of troops stationed at a specific location, such as a fort, fortress, town, or naval base, to defend it and supervise its administration. In English the corresponding word is garrison; in other languages the spellings include garnison (French garnison, Swedish garnison, German Garnison) and garnizon (Polish garnizon, Turkish garnizon).

Function and roles: A garnison provides a permanent military presence to deter aggression, defend strategic sites, secure supply lines, and support civil authorities where applicable. It may include fortifications, barracks, depots, and training facilities, along with personnel across combat and support arms.

Organization and operations: Garrisons are usually commanded by a garrison commander and can include infantry, artillery, engineers, communications, logistics, and medical units. Some garrisons are stationed for long periods, while others rotate personnel or adapt to shifting defense needs. Their duties range from defensive security and policing to disaster response and ceremonial functions.

Modern context: In many countries, the term also describes a surrounding town or region that centers on a military base, known as a garrison town. The size and role of garnisons have evolved with changes in warfare, technology, and international alliance commitments, but the core idea remains a fixed military presence tasked with defense and control of a defined area.