Fort Gordon
Fort Gordon PCS Guide
Military Base History
Col. Michael Wacker, Strategic Plans and Integration, presents information focused on the future of Signal Corps readiness training.
Fort Gordon began as Camp Gordon in 1941, when the Army built it near Augusta, Georgia, for its strategic location and ample space. Early construction focused on barracks, training ranges, and support facilities to handle the rapid influx of troops.
During World War II, Camp Gordon trained several key divisions, including the 4th and 26th Infantry Divisions. After the war, the installation shifted to a demobilization and reserve training role, and in 1948, the Army reactivated the post as Fort Gordon, reflecting its new permanent status.
The Cold War era brought a new mission as Fort Gordon became home to the U.S. Army Signal Corps Training Center in 1956. The base expanded with new classrooms, labs, and signal facilities, and over the decades, it hosted the Signal School, Military Police School, and various support units.
Today, Fort Gordon is a center for cyber operations and signal training, housing the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and the Army Cyber Command (ARCYBER). The installation supports national defense and regional economic growth, serving as a key employer and technology driver in Georgia.
Name Change: In October 2023, Fort Gordon was officially renamed Fort Eisenhower to honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This change reflects the Army's effort to align installation names with modern values and historical significance.
Major Units & Training Programs
Maj. Gen. Paul T. Stanton, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Gordon, and Command Sgt. Maj. Delia Quintero, Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Gordon, congratulate Cpl. Jaida Andrews for winning U.S. Army Training and...
Major Units
U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE)
Leads the Army's efforts in cyber, signal, and electronic warfare operations, providing training and doctrine for information dominance on the battlefield.
U.S. Army Signal School
Trains Soldiers in communications, networking, and information systems to ensure effective command and control across Army operations.
116th Military Intelligence Brigade
Conducts 24/7 intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations to support Army and joint force commanders worldwide.
Training Schools
Signal Basic Officer Leader Course (Signal BOLC)
Overview
Prepares newly commissioned Signal Corps officers to lead communications and cyber operations at the platoon and company level.
Course Length
15 weeks
Who Attends
Newly commissioned Signal Corps officers
Cyber Basic Officer Leader Course (Cyber BOLC)
Overview
Trains new Cyber Corps officers in cyber operations, network defense, and leadership in cyberspace missions.
Course Length
17 weeks
Who Attends
Newly commissioned Cyber Corps officers
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Army Pfc. Joshua M. Price of Gordon, Ga., a security specialist with the 642nd Regional Support Group, checks vehicles entering Improved Tactical Training Base Freedom at Fort McCoy, Wis., Aug. 6, 2021 during the Combat Support Training Exercise. Thousands of Reserve and National Guard...
Welcome to Fort Gordon! Arriving at a new installation can be exciting and a bit overwhelming, but being prepared will help your transition go smoothly. Make sure you have all required documents and understand the check-in process before you arrive. For more details, visit the official Fort Gordon website.
Fort Gordon’s main entrance is the Gate 1 (Main Gate), located off Gordon Highway. Gate 1 operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Other gates, such as Gate 2 and Gate 5, have limited hours—check the base website for updates. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved visitor pass. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security is a top priority, so follow all posted instructions. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering the base.
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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)
Fort Gordon offers a sponsor program for incoming personnel. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or request one through your unit’s S1 or personnel office. Many units also provide online sponsor request forms—check with your unit for specific instructions.
Formal in-processing is handled at the Soldier Service Center, Building 35200, near the main area of Fort Gordon. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and appointment scheduling.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside Gate 1 (Main Gate) on Gordon Highway. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must stop here before entering the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Stewart, a U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and one of the first Soldiers to conduct a Permanent Change of Station, known as PCS, to Poland, stands inside his apartment shortly after moving in as a tenant, Poznan, Poland, Feb. 7, 2023.
Arriving at Fort Gordon starts with receiving your PCS orders. Next, contact the base Transportation Office to arrange your move. Choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment managed by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY) if you want more control and possible reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule, track, and manage your shipment. This system is your main hub for move paperwork and status updates. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) covers some hotel costs while you secure housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset moving expenses. Track your entitlements and keep receipts to maximize your benefits. Fort Gordon’s in-processing steps and housing waitlists can vary, so check base-specific guidance and reach out to your sponsor for local insights.
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 with you during the move.
- Contact the Transportation Office early to avoid peak season delays.
- Understand your weight allowance to prevent excess charges.
- Take photos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Plan ahead for pet transportation and lodging.
- Check Fort Gordon’s housing waitlist and options before arrival.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and track your household goods shipment.
Check current per diem and DLA rates.
Guidance and checklists for your move.
Base-specific information for incoming personnel.
Schools & Childcare
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Childcare Options
Fort Gordon Child Development Center (CDC)
Fort Gordon School Age Center (SAC)
Fort Gordon Family Child Care (FCC) Program
Local Schools
Columbia County School District
Richmond County School System
Augusta Preparatory Day School
Medical & Dental Care
TRICARE Information
TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Select are the main options at Fort Gordon. Enroll as soon as you arrive to avoid gaps in coverage. Fort Gordon falls under the TRICARE East region, managed by Humana Military. Use the TRICARE website to find network providers and manage your plan. Always update your address and PCM when you move.
On-Base Medical & Dental Facilities
Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center (DDEAMC)
Primary care, specialty clinics, pediatrics, pharmacy, lab, radiology
Fort Gordon Dental Clinic Command
Routine dental exams, cleanings, dental sick call, specialty dental care
Emergency Care Options
Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center Emergency Department
Doctors Hospital of Augusta Emergency Room
Transportation & Commuting
Driving Tips
Fort Gordon is located just southwest of Augusta, GA, with Gate 1 (main gate) off Gordon Highway (US-78/278) being the primary entry point. Typical rush hours are 6:30–8:30 AM and 3:30–5:30 PM, when traffic congestion is most noticeable near the gates, especially Gate 1 and Gate 2. Plan extra time during these periods, as backups can extend onto the main roads. On base, speed limits are strictly enforced (generally 25 mph unless otherwise posted), and patrols are frequent. Georgia law prohibits holding or supporting a phone with any part of the body while driving (hands-free only), and seatbelt use is mandatory. Parking is generally available near major facilities, but it fills up quickly around headquarters and training areas during peak hours; allow extra time to find parking during the morning rush.
Shuttle Information
Fort Gordon does not currently operate a base-wide shuttle service for general personnel. Some limited shuttle services may be available for specific training events or official functions, but these are not for routine commuting.
Nearby Airports
Augusta Regional Airport (AGS)
Ride-sharing services and taxis available; rental cars recommended for flexibility.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Rental car strongly recommended; limited shuttle or bus options from Augusta.
Community & Local Life
Fort Gordon is closely woven into the fabric of Augusta and its surrounding communities. Local businesses, schools, and civic groups welcome military families, offering a supportive environment both on and off base.
Families are encouraged to explore nearby towns, join community groups, and attend local events. Getting involved off base helps build lasting friendships and a true sense of belonging while stationed at Fort Gordon.
Nearby Towns
Augusta
15-minute driveEvans
10 milesGrovetown
5 milesMartinez
12 milesSpouse Groups & Clubs
Fort Gordon Spouses & Civilians' Club
Fort Gordon Military Moms & Dads
Fort Gordon Enlisted Spouses Club
Annual Events
Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival
Thunder Over Evans
Augusta Christmas Parade
Pets & Animals
Pets play a vital role in the well-being of military families, providing emotional support, companionship, and a sense of stability during frequent moves and deployments. Pet-friendly policies and accessible animal care services are essential to enhancing the resilience and quality of life for servicemembers and their loved ones, helping them adapt to the unique demands of military life.
Housing Pet Policy
Fort Gordon's on-base housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Pets are permitted in family housing with restrictions. Allowed pets typically include domestic dogs and cats. There is a restriction on certain dog breeds considered 'aggressive,' such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Chows, and wolf hybrids. Exotic animals, farm animals, and wild animals are not allowed. There is generally a two-pet limit per household. Each pet must be registered with the housing office upon arrival, and proof of current vaccinations (including rabies) is required. Pet owners may be required to pay a non-refundable pet deposit or fee per pet. Policies apply equally to officer and enlisted housing unless otherwise noted in the housing agreement. For the most current and official policy details, refer to the Balfour Beatty Communities Fort Gordon Housing Pet Policy: https://www.fortgordonfamilyhomes.com/Resident-Resources/ (click 'Pet Policy' link).
On-Base Vet Clinics
Fort Gordon Veterinary Treatment Facility
Location
Bldg 500, Barnes Ave, Fort Gordon, GA 30905
Phone
(706) 787-3815
Hours
Monday–Friday: 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch 12:00–1:00 p.m.); Closed weekends and federal holidays
Services
Wellness exams, vaccinations, health certificates, microchipping, parasite prevention, basic sick calls (limited). No emergency care or advanced surgical procedures. Primarily serves pets of active duty and retired military families.
Dog Parks, Boarding & Grooming
Fort Gordon Dog Park
Dog ParkThe Fort Gordon Dog Park offers a fenced area for dogs to play off-leash, including separate sections for large and small breeds, benches for owners, waste stations, and shade structures. Free for on-base residents; open daily from dawn to dusk.
Camp Bow Wow Augusta
Boarding/Daycare/GroomingOffers dog boarding, doggy day care, and grooming services in a secure, climate-controlled facility. Features spacious play yards, live webcams for owners, and discounted rates for military families. Pricing varies by service. Reservations recommended.
PetSmart Grooming & Pet Hotel
Boarding/Grooming/Pet StorePetSmart offers full-service grooming, overnight boarding (Pet Hotel), and an in-store pet supply shop. Grooming prices start at $40; boarding rates vary. Military discounts available with ID. Advanced booking recommended for holidays.
Augusta Animal Emergency
Emergency Veterinary CareProvides 24/7 emergency veterinary care for pets. Services include urgent care, surgery, diagnostics, and hospitalization. Costs depend on treatment; open to all area residents. Not a substitute for routine veterinary care.
Mail & Logistics
Mail and logistics services on Fort Gordon provide essential support to military personnel and their families, ensuring consistent communication, access to goods, and reliable shipping options. These services help maintain morale, enable online shopping, and support the operational readiness of the base community.
Post Office Information
Fort Gordon Post Office
Services Offered:
Full-service USPS facility offering mail and package shipping, mail pickup, PO boxes, money orders, stamps, and certified/registered mail services.
Hephzibah Post Office (off-base)
Services Offered:
Mail and package shipping, PO boxes, money orders, retail shipping supplies, and general postal services.
Amazon & Shipping Policy
Amazon delivers to Fort Gordon residential addresses and PO boxes. On-base housing residents may receive packages at their home address or pick them up at the base post office. Due to security protocols, some restricted items cannot be shipped directly to the base. Amazon Locker services may be available near the base for secure pickup. Standard delivery times apply, but processing may be delayed during weekends, holidays, or heightened security periods. APO/FPO shipping is not applicable for CONUS installations like Fort Gordon, but for deployed personnel, always use the proper APO/FPO address format and be aware of restricted items.
Lockers & Pickup Locations
Fort Gordon Postal Service Center
Package pickup for PO Box holders and residents. Valid military or government ID required for pick-up. Oversized and accountable mail may require in-person pickup.
Amazon Hub Locker - Broad Street
Amazon Locker for secure package pickup. Use the code provided by Amazon to access your package. Convenient for off-base Amazon deliveries.
UPS Access Point - Staples Augusta
Accepts UPS packages for pickup and drop-off. Photo ID required for pickup. Useful for personal and business shipments.