The term 'FORMER CALIFORNIA FORT' can be summarized as the answer to the crossword clue 'ORD' (3 letters). This refers to Fort Ord, a former U.S. Army post located in Monterey County, California. It was established in 1917 and served as an active military installation until 1994. During its time of operation, Fort Ord was home to several units of the U.S. Army, including the 7th Infantry Division and the 1st Armored Division.