Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg PCS Guide
Base History & Name
U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, based in Vicenza, Italy; Maneuver Company Advisor Team 2120, 1st Battalion, 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade, based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina; the 933rd Forward...
Fort Bragg was established in 1918 as an artillery training ground during World War I. The base’s original mission focused on field artillery, using the region’s ample space and mild climate to support training.
Over time, the base quickly grew into one of the largest military installations in the United States. It supported a wide range of training and operational needs for the U.S. Army.
Throughout the 20th century, Fort Bragg expanded significantly. During World War II, it became a major training center for airborne and glider units, including the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions.
The Cold War era brought further growth with the addition of Special Forces units. The John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center was also established, enhancing the base’s role in elite military training.
Fort Bragg has played a pivotal role in every major U.S. conflict since WWII. It served as a deployment hub for operations in Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and the Global War on Terror.
- The base is home to the XVIII Airborne Corps, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and other elite units.
In June 2023, Fort Bragg was officially renamed Fort Liberty as part of a Department of Defense initiative to remove Confederate names from military installations.
Today, the installation continues to serve as a vital center for airborne and special operations forces. It supports both national defense and the local North Carolina economy.
Namesake
Bragg's military legacy is controversial. While he was recognized for his early service, his leadership during the Civil War was often criticized. The decision to rename the installation in 2023 reflected a shift in values and a move away from Confederate commemorations.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, based in Vicenza, Italy; Maneuver Company Advisor Team 2120, 1st Battalion, 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade, based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina; the 933rd Forward...
Major Units
XVIII Airborne Corps
Serves as the Army’s primary strategic response force, capable of deploying rapidly anywhere in the world for combat operations, humanitarian missions, or crisis response. The Corps commands several elite airborne and special operations units.
82nd Airborne Division
Conducts forced entry parachute assaults and provides immediate response to global contingencies. Renowned for its ability to deploy on short notice and execute airborne operations.
U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC)
Oversees all Army special operations forces, including Special Forces, Rangers, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations units. Provides specialized, unconventional warfare capabilities.
1st Special Forces Command (Airborne)
Commands and controls Army Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations units, focusing on unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and special reconnaissance.
Training Schools
John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School (SWCS)
Overview
Trains and educates Army Special Forces, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations personnel in advanced special operations skills, language, and regional expertise.
Course Length
Varies by course (weeks to over a year)
Who Attends
Special Forces candidates, Civil Affairs, and Psychological Operations personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
Soldiers at Fort Bragg help secure harnesses on Gates County High School’s Navy JROTC cadets before jumping from the 34-foot tower.
Welcome to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the world. Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family as you begin your assignment. Review all check-in procedures and have your documents ready for a seamless experience. For more details, visit the official Fort Bragg website.
Fort Bragg’s primary access points include the All American Gate (main gate), Randolph Gate, and Longstreet Gate. The All American Gate operates 24/7 and is the most commonly used entry for new arrivals. All gates require a 100% ID check—bring your Military ID, CAC, or a state driver’s license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Non-compliant licenses are not accepted for unescorted access. Expect random vehicle inspections as part of heightened security. If you have family or visitors, they must obtain a visitor pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering. Ensure all vehicle occupants have proper identification. Arrive early to allow time for security procedures, especially during peak hours.
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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 and Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if already arranged)
Fort Bragg offers a robust sponsor program to help incoming personnel and families settle in quickly. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit’s administrative office or through the Army’s Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) portal. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with local orientation.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Soldier Support Center, Building 4-2843, near the All American Gate. Operating hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Key steps include Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit Check-in. Plan for the process to take 2–3 days, depending on your specific needs and schedules. Arrive early and bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the All American Gate. The VCC operates Monday–Friday, 5:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in at the VCC before entering the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A Fort Bragg family prepares for their permanent change of station move, April 25. PCS season is in full swing and families across the installation are preparing to move to their new duty stations.
Fort Bragg welcomes thousands of new service members and families each year. Start your PCS by reviewing your orders and contacting the Transportation Office. Most choose either 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. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule, track, and manage your move. DPS is your one-stop portal for all things PCS—register early and keep your login handy.
You may be eligible for key entitlements. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover lodging and meals while you wait for housing—up to 10 days for CONUS moves. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset relocation costs. Check the latest rates before you move. Fort Bragg’s large size means housing and in-processing can take time, so plan for possible delays. Early coordination with your gaining unit and sponsor will help smooth your arrival.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as you receive orders.
- Book on-base lodging early; Fort Bragg hotels fill up fast during PCS season.
- Keep hard copies of orders, IDs, and important documents with you—not in your shipment.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing for insurance claims.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and new address, especially for off-base housing.
- Check pet policies for on- and off-base housing before arrival.
- Contact Fort Bragg schools early if you have children to ease enrollment.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule, track, and manage your PCS move online.
Official DoD site for TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides, checklists, and support for all move types.
Base-specific arrival info, in-processing, and contacts.
Schools & Childcare
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On-Base Schools
Bowley Elementary School
Bowley Elementary is a DoDEA school located on Fort Bragg, serving families living on-post. The school offers a supportive environment with programs tailored to military children.
Albritton Middle School
Albritton Middle School is a DoDEA school on Fort Bragg, providing education for military-connected students in grades 6-8. The school focuses on academic achievement and social-emotional growth.
Devers Elementary School
Devers Elementary is another DoDEA school on Fort Bragg, serving young learners in a nurturing setting. The school emphasizes core academics and character development.
Childcare Options
Fort Bragg Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day care, part-day preschool, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC accredited and emphasizes early learning.
Fort Bragg School Age Center (SAC)
The SAC offers before- and after-school care, homework help, and recreational activities for school-age children. Accredited and designed for military families' needs.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer home-based care with flexible hours for infants through school-age children. The program is inspected and certified for quality and safety.
Local Schools
Cumberland County Schools
Cumberland County Schools is the primary district for Fort Bragg families and offers diverse programs, including STEM and arts. The district has schools with GreatSchools ratings ranging from 5 to 8, reflecting solid academic performance and extracurricular opportunities.
Terry Sanford High School
Terry Sanford High School is well-regarded for its Advanced Placement courses, strong athletics, and arts programs. It consistently earns above-average ratings on GreatSchools.org.
Village Christian Academy
Village Christian Academy offers a faith-based curriculum, small class sizes, and a reputation for personalized attention. The school is known for its supportive community and college preparatory focus.