Mary managed to corrupt military area (4,4)

I believe the answer is:

army base

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'military area' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'mary managed to corrupt' is the wordplay.
'managed' indicates an anagram.
'to corrupt' becomes 'base'.
'mary' is an anagram of 'army'.
'army'+'base'='ARMY BASE'

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.