Camp Smith
Camp Smith PCS Guide
Base History & Name
U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, left, commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Karl Pierson, Reserve Affairs Division, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters Marine Corps, pose for a photo during a key leader engagement on Camp H.M. Smith,...
Camp Smith, located on Oahu, Hawaii, was established in 1941 as a vital command post during World War II. Its original purpose was to serve as the headquarters for the U.S. Army Forces in the Central Pacific Area, supporting operations across the Pacific Theater.
The site was chosen for its strategic vantage point overlooking Pearl Harbor and Honolulu, providing a secure and commanding location for military leadership. This location enabled effective coordination and rapid response during critical moments of the war.
During World War II, Camp Smith played a key role in coordinating Allied operations in the Pacific. The base underwent rapid expansion, with new facilities constructed to accommodate the growing staff and logistical needs.
After the war, the installation transitioned to the U.S. Marine Corps, officially becoming the headquarters for Fleet Marine Force, Pacific (FMFPAC) in 1955. This marked a significant shift in mission, focusing on Marine Corps operations and regional security.
Throughout the Cold War and into the modern era, Camp Smith has remained a central hub for command and control. It is now home to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and Marine Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC), overseeing joint and combined military operations across the vast Indo-Pacific region.
The base has not undergone any major official name changes since its establishment as Camp Smith. Its enduring identity reflects its ongoing importance in U.S. military strategy.
Today, Camp Smith continues to serve as a critical headquarters for U.S. military strategy and coordination in the Pacific. Its presence supports regional stability, disaster response, and partnerships with allied nations.
The installation also plays an important role in the local community, providing employment and contributing to Hawaii’s security infrastructure. Camp Smith’s influence extends beyond military operations, shaping both regional defense and local livelihoods.
Namesake
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Aidan Smith, a rifleman with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment and a native of Maine, fires an M32 grenade launcher during a live-fire shoot range as part of Exercise Chesapeake 25 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, May 1, 2025....
Major Units
U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC)
Serves as the headquarters for Marine Corps operations in the Indo-Pacific region, providing command and control for all Marine forces in the area. MARFORPAC plans and coordinates joint and combined military operations with allied and partner nations.
U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command Pacific (MARSOCPAC)
Coordinates and oversees Marine special operations forces in the Pacific theater, executing missions such as direct action, special reconnaissance, and foreign internal defense.
Training Schools
Marine Corps Staff Training Exercises (STX)
Overview
Provides command and staff training exercises to enhance operational planning and coordination for Marine Corps leaders in the Pacific region.
Course Length
Varies (typically 1-2 weeks per exercise)
Who Attends
Marine Corps officers and staff assigned to command positions
Arrival & In-Processing
Capt. Rich Smith (left), assistant chief of physical therapy at the 121st Field Hospital, 549th Hospital Center, digs a hole with a measurement assist from a member of the We Go Together Association, during a potato planting and barbecue lunch event outside Yoon Gate, March 22. The event was...
Welcome to Camp Smith! Arriving at a new installation is an important milestone, and being prepared helps ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Review the steps below to make your check-in and base access experience as efficient as possible. For additional details, visit the official Camp Smith website.
Camp Smith's primary entrance is the Main Gate, located at the front of the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All individuals must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential at entry. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections—security is a top priority. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the gate or Visitor Control Center to request a temporary pass. All guests must present valid photo identification and may be subject to background screening.
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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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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Camp Smith offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or command to request a sponsor before your move. They will assign a sponsor who can answer questions, provide local information, and assist with in-processing steps.
Report to the Welcome Center in Building 1, near the Main Gate, for in-processing. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0730–1630. During in-processing, you will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific requirements and office wait times.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. Open Monday to Friday, 0600–1800, the VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsoring non-DoD visitors. Bring valid photo ID and be prepared for a brief background check.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Workers from River City Movers conduct a direct delivery May 9 for Staff Sgt. Cornel Varnado Jr., 194th Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, at Fort Campbell whose belongings were transported overseas from his previous duty station in Germany during a government move. Pictured are Russell McClendon, driver and crew leader, left; Cory Hemmings, driver; and Craig Carter; driver and crew leader.
When you receive PCS orders to Camp Smith, act fast. Contact your current Transportation Office to start your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is where you schedule your shipment, track your move, and manage documents. Choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government handles your items, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you move your belongings and may earn reimbursement. Most families use HHG, but PPM can offer flexibility.
You’re entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 10 days to cover hotel costs while you wait for housing. You’ll also receive a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Review your entitlements and keep receipts for all expenses. Camp Smith’s location near major highways makes access easier, but summer brings heavy traffic and demand for movers. Use official resources and check in with your sponsor for local tips. Always start with DPS and keep your orders handy.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep hard copies of orders, IDs, and moving documents with you at all times.
- Schedule your move early—summer slots fill up fast at Camp Smith.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out for insurance.
- Double-check weight allowances to avoid costly overages.
- Label boxes with your name and new address for easier delivery.
- Contact base housing early if you plan to live on post.
Important Forms & Links
Start, track, and manage your household goods shipment.
Official rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and relocation support.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.