Fort Buchanan
Fort Buchanan PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Service members, families, retirees, and veterans gathered at the installation’s Community Club, May 1, to participate in the National Prayer Luncheon, where they prayed for peace and unity in Puerto Rico, the United States, and around the world.
Fort Buchanan is the only active U.S. Army installation in the Caribbean. Established in 1923, it was designed to support Army operations in Puerto Rico and the surrounding region.
The original mission emphasized logistical support, training, and administrative functions for U.S. military activities on the island. These core duties helped shape the base’s early development and importance.
During World War II, Fort Buchanan expanded rapidly to meet new demands. The base became a key staging and supply point for U.S. forces operating in the Caribbean and Latin America.
It supported anti-submarine operations and regional defense, hosting a variety of Army and Army Air Forces units. The installation’s infrastructure grew to accommodate thousands of troops and support personnel.
After the war, Fort Buchanan’s mission shifted to meet changing military needs. The base transitioned into a support and administrative hub for Army Reserve, National Guard, and other Department of Defense activities in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
It played a vital role during the Cold War by providing logistical and training support for U.S. forces in the region. This support helped maintain military readiness throughout the Caribbean.
Today, Fort Buchanan serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Army Reserve in Puerto Rico. The base supports thousands of Reserve, National Guard, and civilian personnel.
It also acts as a community hub, offering services to military families and retirees. Since its establishment, Fort Buchanan has retained its original name, with no significant official name changes recorded.
Namesake
Buchanan's leadership and engineering expertise contributed to the development of critical military infrastructure on the island. The fort honors his legacy and lasting impact on U.S. Army operations in Puerto Rico.
Major Units & Training Programs
Service members, their families, and community members gathered at the Navy Reserve Center, April 30 to participate in the installation's Retirement Ceremony. Sgt. 1st Class Manuel R. Esteves, a native of San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, and operations training sergeant of the Army Reserve's...
Major Units
1st Mission Support Command
Serves as the senior Army Reserve command in the Caribbean, providing mission command and support to Army Reserve units in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its focus is on readiness, mobilization, and deployment support.
Puerto Rico National Guard Elements (various units)
Provides support for both federal and state missions, including disaster response, homeland security, and overseas deployments. These units are essential for regional emergency response and military operations.
U.S. Army Garrison Fort Buchanan
Responsible for installation management, base operations, and support services for all tenant units and activities at Fort Buchanan. Ensures operational readiness and quality of life for soldiers and families.
Arrival & In-Processing
Soldiers, civilians, students, and family members participated in the installation's 16th Annual Earth Week Expo on April 25. The day commenced with a simple but significant ceremony led by Col. Charles N Moulton, Fort Buchanan commander, and Dr. David Santiago Hernández, Environmental Division...
Welcome to Fort Buchanan! Arriving prepared helps ensure a smooth check-in and start to your assignment. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during in-processing will save you time and stress. For more details, visit the official Fort Buchanan website.
Fort Buchanan’s main gate is the Borinquen Gate, located at the primary entrance to the installation. The Borinquen Gate operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved identification at entry. Civilian visitors need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or passport. The base enforces the REAL ID Act—ensure your state license meets federal standards. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of Fort Buchanan’s robust security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center just outside the main gate before proceeding onto the installation.
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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 already arranged)
Fort Buchanan offers a sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Fort Buchanan Relocation Readiness Program. Your sponsor will assist with arrival, in-processing, and local information.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 152, near the main entrance. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most personnel complete in-processing within 2–3 business days, depending on individual needs and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Borinquen Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsorship for non-DoD visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
U.S. Army Pfc. Fredrick Swingle, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, loads a moving truck with bags during the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks move out at Fort Bragg, N.C., Aug. 28, 2022. Fort Bragg is in a process of moving Soldiers out of the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks and into more suitable barracks on the installation. (U.S. Army Photo By Pfc. Austin Robertson)
Arriving at Fort Buchanan starts with receiving your official PCS orders. Next, contact the Transportation Office to begin your move planning. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move, where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at Move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. DPS is the central tool for managing your move and ensuring all details are in order. You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days while you secure housing, and you may also receive a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Check current rates and entitlements before you move. Fort Buchanan’s unique location in Puerto Rico means you should plan ahead for shipping times and consider local housing options. Contact your sponsor or the Relocation Readiness Program for help with area orientation and settling in.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local guidance.
- Keep your orders and important documents with you at all times.
- Review DPS tutorials before starting your move.
- Plan for longer shipping times due to Puerto Rico’s location.
- Label boxes with your name and destination address.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out.
- Contact the Fort Buchanan Housing Office as soon as possible.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and manage your move.
Check current allowances, per diem, and travel rates.
Find guides, checklists, and support for every stage of your move.
Review DLA rates and eligibility.
Base-specific arrival information and local resources.