Army Bases Hawaii

Aliamanu Military Reservation

Aliamanu Military Reservation PCS Guide

Aliamanu Military Reservation sits in Honolulu, Hawaii and serves as a key Army installation supporting U.S. Indo-Pacific Command operations. Known for its family housing, the base offers on-post schools, playgrounds, and quick access to amenities in Honolulu. Its location in a volcanic crater gives it a unique landscape. The base is considered convenient for families but can feel isolated due to its geography.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Established
October 7, 1941
Primary Mission
Family housing and support for U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii
Population
Approximately 2,000 residents
Nearest Major City
Honolulu
Unique Feature
Located inside a volcanic crater
On-Base Schools
Aliamanu Elementary and Aliamanu Middle School

Military Base History

A member of the Drinking Water Long-Term Monitoring Team conducts water testing at an Aliamanu Military Reservation home in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mar. 21, 2024. The ongoing monitoring efforts are part of the Navy’s enduring long-term commitment to ensure the safety of the environment and public...

Aliamanu Military Reservation (AMR) was established during World War II to support the rapid expansion of U.S. Army forces in Hawaii. Its original mission focused on providing housing and logistical support for military personnel stationed on Oahu, especially as the island became a strategic hub in the Pacific theater.

Construction at AMR accelerated in the early 1940s as the U.S. fortified its defenses following the attack on Pearl Harbor. The reservation was built within the Aliamanu Crater, a natural geological formation that offered some protection and seclusion.

Over the decades, AMR expanded to include family housing, recreational facilities, and support infrastructure for a growing military community. These additions helped create a stable environment for Army families living on Oahu.

Throughout the Cold War and into the present day, AMR has housed key Army units and support personnel. Its proximity to major installations like Fort Shafter and Schofield Barracks has made it a vital part of the Army's presence in the Pacific.

While AMR has not been the site of major combat operations, it remains important for military readiness. The reservation supports daily operations and provides essential services for service members and their families.

Today, Aliamanu Military Reservation primarily serves as a residential and community support area for Army families. It continues to play a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and quality of life for service members stationed in Hawaii.

The installation has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes recorded. This continuity reflects its longstanding role in the Army’s Hawaii operations.

Major Units & Training Programs

Col. Franklin D. Dennis, incoming commander, 8th Military Police Brigade, 8th theater Sustainment Command hands Command Sgt. Maj. James Rutherford the brigade colors during his change of command ceremony on Schofield Barracks, June 27, 2024. “I have proudly worn the 8th MP Brigade patch on my...

Major Units

8th Theater Sustainment Command

Provides logistics, sustainment, and support operations for U.S. Army forces in the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring mission readiness and operational reach.

94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command

Responsible for air and missile defense operations throughout the Pacific theater, protecting U.S. and allied forces from aerial threats.

18th Medical Command (Deployment Support)

Delivers medical support and health service operations to Army units across the Indo-Pacific, enhancing force health protection and medical readiness.

Arrival & In-Processing

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Welcome to Aliamanu Military Reservation! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during check-in helps you start your assignment with confidence. For more details, visit the official Aliamanu Military Reservation website.

PCS & Relocation Essentials

Former claims advisor, current quality assurance/quality control inspector at the 403rd Army Field Support Brigade Logistics Readiness Center-Daegu, and military spouse, Chalon Conley-Mosley, shows one of the informational booklets she made to educate and inform service members about how to submit a claim.

When you receive PCS orders to Aliamanu Military Reservation, act fast. Contact your base Transportation Office to start your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). Choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move. Each move type has different paperwork and reimbursement rules. Use DPS to track your shipment and manage documents online. You’ll need to plan for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps pay for hotels while you wait for housing, and DLA offsets moving costs. Make sure you understand your entitlements before you move. Aliamanu is a family-friendly community near Honolulu, so competition for on-base housing can be high. Apply for housing early and keep your orders and key documents handy. For more details, visit official military relocation websites and reach out to your sponsor as soon as possible.

Temporary Lodging Information

Up to 10 days

Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance

Local Transportation Office
Contact the Base Transportation Office at (808) 655-1868

PCS Tips

  • Request a sponsor early to help with local guidance.
  • Keep orders, IDs, and key documents with you at all times.
  • Understand your weight allowance to avoid extra fees.
  • Label boxes with your name and destination address.
  • Take photos of your items before pack-out for claims.
  • Apply for on-base housing as soon as you have orders.
  • Plan for pet travel and quarantine requirements in Hawaii.

Important Forms & Links

DPS Login (move.mil)

Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and manage your move.

DoD Allowances & Per Diem Rates (PDTATAC)

Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.

Military OneSource PCS & Moving

Get relocation tools, checklists, and 24/7 support.

Dislocation Allowance (DLA) Calculator

Estimate your DLA payment for your PCS move.

Housing Options

Service members stationed at Aliamanu Military Reservation (AMR) have several housing options in the Honolulu area. Most personnel rely on privatized housing managed by Island Palm Communities, which offers a range of townhomes and single-family homes. On-base housing is in high demand, so waitlists are common. Many families also look to community rentals in Honolulu if on-base housing is unavailable. The cost of living in Hawaii is high. The 2025 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for an E-5 with dependents in Honolulu County is about $3,513 monthly. This BAH aims to offset expensive local rents, but market rates can exceed allowances. You can estimate your specific BAH using our BAH Calculator.

BAH Rates (2025)

BAH Rate MHA code mapping not found for Aliamanu Military Reservation.

On-Base Neighborhoods

Aliamanu Crater

Aliamanu Crater features townhomes and duplexes in a gated community. The neighborhood is popular with families due to its playgrounds, walking trails, and easy access to on-base amenities like a community center and schools.

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Red Hill offers updated single-family homes and duplexes. Residents enjoy large yards, community parks, and proximity to the Red Hill Elementary School. This area is quieter and has less traffic than central Honolulu.

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Makalapa is located near Pearl Harbor and provides family housing with easy access to base services. The neighborhood includes playgrounds, a pool, and is close to shopping and dining options.

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Off-Base Areas

Salt Lake

10-15 minutes $2,900-$3,700/month for a 3-bedroom apartment

Salt Lake is a family-friendly area with good schools and ample parks. Residents enjoy a suburban feel, quick commutes to AMR, and convenient shopping. It's a top choice for military families but rents are high.

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Pearl City

20-30 minutes $2,700-$3,500/month for a 3-bedroom house

Pearl City offers a mix of single-family homes and condos. The area is known for its schools, shopping centers, and community events. Commutes can be longer during rush hour, but the neighborhood is quieter than Honolulu.

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Aiea

10-20 minutes $2,800-$3,600/month for a 3-bedroom apartment or townhouse

Aiea features a blend of townhomes and apartments. Residents appreciate the central location, nearby malls, and quick access to major highways. The area is popular with military due to its balance of convenience and amenities.

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Moanalua

10-15 minutes $3,200-$4,200/month for a 3-bedroom single-family home

Moanalua offers quiet, established neighborhoods with larger homes and scenic views. The area is close to Tripler Army Medical Center and has strong schools, but rents are at the higher end for the region.

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Lodging Options

Aliamanu Military Reservation (AMR) serves as a key lodging hub for military personnel PCSing or on TDY orders in Honolulu. Demand for temporary lodging is high, especially during summer PCS season, so book as early as possible to secure your preferred dates. Most on-base facilities offer a mix of family suites and standard rooms, with typical stay limits ranging from 30 to 60 days for PCSing families. TDY travelers usually receive priority for shorter stays. Pet-friendly rooms are available but limited—request these well in advance if traveling with pets. Proof of vaccinations and additional fees may apply. Early planning ensures you have the best chance of securing a comfortable stay for your transition.

On-Base Lodging

Inns of Hawaii – Tripler Army Medical Center

The Inns of Hawaii at Tripler Army Medical Center offers convenient access for AMR guests. Rooms include queen beds, private baths, Wi-Fi, and cable TV. Family suites feature kitchenettes and living areas. Eligible guests include active duty, DoD civilians, and families on PCS or TDY orders. Limited pet-friendly rooms are available; request early and provide required documents. Amenities include laundry, playgrounds, and 24/7 front desk support.

Contact: (808) 839-2336

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The Hale Koa Hotel

The Hale Koa Hotel, located on Fort DeRussy in Waikiki, offers resort-style lodging for eligible military and DoD guests. Standard and suite rooms feature refrigerators, Wi-Fi, and access to pools and beach. Priority is for active duty and families on official orders. Pet rooms are not available, but service animals are accommodated. Reservations are highly recommended during PCS season.

Contact: (808) 955-0555

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Nearby Off-Base Hotels

Best Western The Plaza Hotel

4 miles / 10 min drive

Offers military rates and is pet-friendly (fee applies, advance notice required). Complimentary breakfast and airport shuttle. Quick access to AMR and Tripler. Popular with PCSing families.

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Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

7 miles / 15 min drive

Military discount available; request at booking. No pets except service animals. Steps from Ala Moana Center, with on-site dining and pool. Easy drive to AMR.

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Airport Honolulu Hotel

4 miles / 10 min drive

Military rates offered. Pet-friendly rooms (fees and restrictions apply). Free airport shuttle and breakfast. Convenient for late arrivals or early departures.

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