Camp Lemonnier
Camp Lemonnier PCS and Base Guide
Military Base History
From left, U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. John Sonnier, a geospatial intelligence chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266 (Reinforced), Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Training Squadron (VMUT) 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, Maj. Gen. Robert B. Sofge Jr.,...
Camp Lemonnier started as a French Foreign Legion base in the 1980s, supporting France’s military presence in Djibouti. The United States took over in 2002, leasing the facility from the Djiboutian government to create a hub for counterterrorism and regional security after September 11.
The original mission centered on supporting U.S. Central Command and Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). This focus established the base as a key site for American military operations in the region.
Major construction and expansion followed the U.S. takeover. The Navy led upgrades to runways, living quarters, and operational facilities, transforming Camp Lemonnier into a modern forward operating site.
The base has hosted units from the Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps, along with coalition partners. This diverse presence supports a wide range of missions and strengthens international cooperation.
During the Global War on Terror, Camp Lemonnier became a critical launch point for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Special operations and humanitarian assistance across East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula also operated from the base.
The base’s location near key maritime chokepoints and unstable regions makes it vital for U.S. and allied security interests. Its strategic position enhances rapid response capabilities in the region.
Today, Camp Lemonnier is the only permanent U.S. military base in Africa. It supports joint and combined operations, regional engagement, and crisis response for American and allied forces.
The base also plays a key role in local economic development, employing hundreds of Djiboutians and supporting infrastructure projects. This partnership benefits both the military and the local community.
No significant official name changes have occurred since the U.S. assumed control. The base retains its original French name, reflecting its history and location in Djibouti.
Major Units & Training Programs
Musician 3rd Class Robert Novoa, lead vocalist of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa Rock Band, Flagship, kicks off the opening ceremony of Partner Appreciation Day with a performance of the Djiboutian and American national anthems on Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Nov. 20, 2024. U.S. Naval...
Major Units
Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA)
Leads U.S. military operations in East Africa, focusing on counterterrorism, regional security, and strengthening partnerships with African nations. Coordinates joint and multinational efforts from Camp Lemonnier.
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) Detachment
Provides construction, engineering, and infrastructure support for U.S. and allied operations in the region. Supports contingency operations and humanitarian missions throughout East Africa.
Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) Detachment
Delivers force protection, harbor security, and anti-terrorism support for U.S. naval assets and facilities in the Horn of Africa. Ensures the safety of maritime operations in the region.
Training Schools
Regional Security Orientation Course
Overview
Prepares deploying personnel for the unique security environment and operational challenges in East Africa, including cultural awareness and force protection procedures.
Course Length
1 week
Who Attends
Deploying military and civilian personnel assigned to Camp Lemonnier or CJTF-HOA
Arrival & In-Processing
CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (June 27, 2023) Capt. Suzanne Krauss, commanding officer Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, listens to Lt. Brent Natsuhara, construction manager, brief on the progress of a gate repair on post, July 27, 2023. The gate repair will enhance base security and ensure Camp Lemonnier's...
Welcome to Camp Lemonnier! Preparing in advance ensures a smooth arrival and helps you navigate base access and check-in procedures efficiently. Review all requirements before your travel to avoid delays and make your transition seamless. For more information, visit the official Camp Lemonnier website.
Camp Lemonnier's main entrance is the Primary Gate, located at the base perimeter. This gate operates 24/7, ensuring access for incoming personnel and families at any hour. To enter, present a valid Military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) at the gate. All state-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass; sponsors should accompany them to the gate or arrange for a visitor pass in advance through the Visitor Control Center. Always follow posted security instructions and remain alert to gate personnel directions.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Passports (for overseas assignments)
Camp Lemonnier offers a sponsor program to assist new arrivals. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit's administrative office or through your command's personnel section. Sponsors help coordinate arrival logistics, answer questions, and guide you through the initial days on base.
In-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main administrative area of Camp Lemonnier. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit check-in. Plan for the process to take 2–3 days, depending on your situation and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is situated just outside the Primary Gate at Camp Lemonnier. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0800–1700. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored by a valid ID cardholder and present proper identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Before packing personal property for a permanent change of station move overseas, there are three critical steps Soldiers must complete to successfully make a smooth OCONUS transition, said Connie Silk, supervisor of the Relocation Readiness Program, Army Community Service. For more information, call 270-798-6313 or 270-798-0513.
Arriving at Camp Lemonnier involves several key steps to ensure a smooth transition. Start by reviewing your orders and contacting the Base Transportation Office to coordinate your move. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Most service members use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule and track their shipments—register early to avoid delays. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) covers short-term housing costs while you secure permanent lodging, and the Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset relocation expenses. Know your entitlements and save receipts for reimbursement. Camp Lemonnier is a unique overseas assignment with specific arrival procedures, so review any base-specific guidance and reach out to your sponsor for support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep passports, orders, and medical records with you during travel.
- Double-check customs requirements for shipping to Djibouti.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Confirm pet import rules and start paperwork early.
- Photograph valuable items before packing.
- Reach out to the Camp Lemonnier Relocation Office for arrival updates.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule, manage, and track your household goods move.
Official source for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS move.
Estimate your DLA entitlement for your move.