Fort Carson
Fort Carson PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Spc. Ambrosia Sanders, an animal care specialist with Fort Carson Public Health Activity, performs a squat jump during the World War II physical training test as part of the Dental Health Command and Public Health Command Best Warrior Competition on Fort Hood, Nov. 4, 2019. The World War II...
Fort Carson was established in 1942 to train troops for World War II. The Army selected its location near Colorado Springs for its varied terrain, which was ideal for preparing soldiers for combat.
The original mission focused on infantry training, but the base quickly expanded to support armored and artillery units as well. This growth allowed Fort Carson to adapt to changing military needs during the war.
During WWII, Fort Carson trained over 100,000 soldiers, including the 89th and 71st Infantry Divisions. In the postwar years, the base adapted to Cold War needs, hosting units like the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and supporting NATO training.
The base underwent major construction phases in the 1950s and 1980s, adding new barracks, ranges, and support facilities. These upgrades improved living conditions and training capabilities for soldiers stationed there.
Fort Carson's role evolved with each conflict. During the Vietnam War, it served as a mobilization and training center for deploying troops.
In the 21st century, it became home to the 4th Infantry Division, which deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. The base also supports National Guard and Reserve units, making it a hub for joint training.
Today, Fort Carson is a key Army installation for combat readiness and power projection. It contributes to the local economy and partners with the community on environmental stewardship.
The base has retained its original name since 1942, honoring its namesake without any official name changes.
Namesake
Carson served as a brevet brigadier general during the Civil War, commanding Union forces in the Southwest. He is remembered for his contributions to western exploration and military campaigns, though his legacy is complex due to his involvement in campaigns against Native American tribes.
Major Units & Training Programs
Raegan Geldart, performance expert, ready to resilience (R2) from Fort Carson doing team-building activities with Soldiers and their family members during Building Strong Ready Teams (BSRT) training event at Denver, on May 03, 2025. R2 provides training and resources to the Army Family to...
Major Units
4th Infantry Division
Serves as the primary division-level command at Fort Carson, responsible for conducting large-scale ground combat operations and providing mission-ready forces for worldwide deployment.
10th Special Forces Group (Airborne)
Trains for and conducts special operations, including unconventional warfare, direct action, and counterterrorism, with a focus on the European theater.
71st Ordnance Group (Explosive Ordnance Disposal)
Provides command and control of EOD operations, supporting both homeland and deployed missions to counter explosive threats.
627th Hospital Center
Delivers comprehensive medical support, including deployable hospital services, to support military operations and readiness.
Training Schools
Mission Command Training Program (MCTP) – Fort Carson Detachment
Overview
Provides realistic command and staff training for brigade and division-level headquarters to enhance operational planning and execution.
Course Length
Varies (typically 1-2 weeks per exercise)
Who Attends
Commanders and staff of brigade/division-level units
Arrival & In-Processing
FORT CARSON, Colo. — Maj. Gen. David Doyle, far right, commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, along with Command Sgt. Maj. Alex Kupratty, far left; retired Staff Sgt. Clinton Romesha, center; Sgt. Maj. Holland, second from left; Sgt. Maj. McDwyer, second from right;...
Welcome to Fort Carson! Arriving at a new duty station is a big step, and being prepared will help you and your family settle in quickly. Review the following steps to ensure a smooth check-in and base access. For more details, visit the official Fort Carson website.
Fort Carson's main entrance is the Gate 1 (Main Gate), located off Highway 115. This gate operates 24/7 for all personnel and vehicles. Other gates, such as Gate 3 and Gate 20, have limited hours—check posted schedules for updates. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or state-issued driver's license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Non-compliant IDs require additional documentation or a secondary form of ID. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates, and random vehicle inspections are standard for security. Family members and visitors must stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass before entry. Ensure you have all required documents for yourself and any guests to avoid delays.
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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 applicable)
Fort Carson offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit directly or through your unit's administrative office. Sponsors help with local information, in-processing, and settling in. If you have not been assigned a sponsor, reach out to your unit as soon as possible.
Formal in-processing for Fort Carson takes place at the Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP) Center, Building 1042. The SRP Center is near the main cantonment area and is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 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 situation and required stops.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside Gate 1 (Main Gate) on Highway 115. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Arrive early to avoid peak wait times, especially during weekends or holidays.
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.
Arriving at Fort Carson starts with receiving official orders. Once you have orders, contact your local Transportation Office to schedule your move and choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Both move types have unique steps and paperwork, so review your options early. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to manage your move, track shipments, and upload documents. DPS is your main tool for scheduling and communicating with movers. You may be eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover short-term stays while house hunting, as well as a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation costs. These entitlements can ease the financial burden of moving. Check current rates and requirements before you travel. Fort Carson has a busy incoming season, especially in summer. Start your planning early and reach out to the Fort Carson Transportation Office for local guidance. They can answer questions about delivery timing, storage, and area-specific rules. A sponsor can also help you settle in faster and avoid common pitfalls.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents in your carry-on.
- Understand your HHG weight allowance to avoid extra costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out.
- Label boxes with room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Contact Fort Carson Transportation Office for local delivery timelines.
- Book temporary lodging early, especially during summer PCS season.
Important Forms & Links
Manage your PCS move, schedule shipments, and track HHG.
Find up-to-date rates for TLE, DLA, and other entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for all PCS moves.
Official base guide for arriving personnel and families.
Schools & Childcare
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