Fort McNair
Fort McNair PCS Guide
Base History & Name
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Fort McNair sits at the meeting point of the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers in Washington, D.C., making it one of the oldest continuously operating military installations in the United States. Established in 1791 as the Washington Arsenal, its original mission was to defend the nation's capital and store arms and ammunition.
The installation underwent major expansions in the 19th century, especially during the Civil War. During this time, it played a critical role in logistics and served as a prison for Confederate soldiers.
In 1904, the post was renamed Fort Lesley J. McNair to honor Lieutenant General Lesley J. McNair, who was killed in World War II.
Throughout the 20th century, Fort McNair housed several key military organizations, including the U.S. Army War College from 1901 to 1946. Later, it became the home of the National Defense University.
The site also hosted the trial and execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators in 1865, marking it as a place of national significance.
Today, Fort McNair serves as headquarters for the U.S. Army Military District of Washington and the Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region. It continues to play a vital role in military education, strategic planning, and ceremonial functions.
Fort McNair maintains its legacy as a cornerstone of military presence in the nation's capital, reflecting its enduring importance to the country.
Namesake
General McNair was killed in action during Operation Cobra in Normandy, France, in July 1944, making him one of the highest-ranking American officers to die in World War II. His leadership and vision left a lasting legacy on Army doctrine and organization.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Pfc. Trey Woodard, a public affairs mass communications specialist with the 50th Public Affairs Detachment from Fort Stewart, Georgia, poses with his finisher medal after completing his first ultra-marathon, the JFK 50 Miler, while supporting the 60th Presidential Inauguration at Fort...
Major Units
U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW) Headquarters
Serves as the Army's primary command for the National Capital Region, providing security, ceremonial support, and contingency operations for the nation's capital.
Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region (JFHQ-NCR)
Provides command and control of all military forces in the National Capital Region for homeland defense and civil support operations, especially during national emergencies or special events.
Training Schools
National Defense University (NDU)
Overview
Provides joint professional military education, including strategic leadership, national security strategy, and resource management for senior military and civilian leaders.
Course Length
Several months to 1 year (varies by program)
Who Attends
Senior officers (O-5 and above), senior enlisted (E-9), and civilian equivalents
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Air Force Col. Richard Martin, 423rd Air Base Group (ABG) incoming commander, assumes command of the 423rd ABG during a change of command ceremony at RAF Alconbury, England, July 20, 2020. Martin previously served as the Dean of Students, Air Force Chair, and Military Faculty at the College...
Welcome to Fort McNair! Arriving at a new installation can be both exciting and challenging. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding base access procedures will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. For more information, visit the official Fort McNair website.
Fort McNair's main gate is located at the entrance off 2nd Street SW. The gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks at all times, and vehicles may be subject to random inspections as part of heightened security measures. If you need to sponsor family members or visitors, they must be vetted and issued a temporary pass at the Visitor Control Center before entry.
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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 McNair offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in quickly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's S1 or administrative office as soon as you receive your assignment. Your sponsor will provide guidance on in-processing, housing, and local resources.
In-processing at Fort McNair takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main gate for your convenience. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. Key steps include checking 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 briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is situated just outside the main gate at Fort McNair. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with guest sponsorship procedures. All visitors must be vetted and approved before being granted access to the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
During the summer surge of Permanent-Change-of-Station moves for Army families, installations like Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, offer PCS Open House events where Soldiers and families can obtain information on programs and services. Army leadership is committed to improving Quality of Life for Soldiers in the areas of Housing, PCS Moves, Child and Youth Programs, and Spouse Employment. (U.S. Army Photo)
When you receive PCS orders to Fort McNair, act quickly. Contact your losing installation’s Transportation Office to start your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is your go-to online tool for scheduling, tracking, and managing your household goods shipment or Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Choose the move type that fits your needs best—most service members use Household Goods (HHG) shipment, but PPM offers more control and potential reimbursement if you move yourself.
You’re entitled to key benefits during your PCS. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover lodging and meals while you search for permanent housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) offsets relocation costs. Know your entitlements and keep receipts for reimbursement. Fort McNair is a small, historic post in Washington, D.C., so plan ahead for limited on-base housing and parking. Check with the Fort McNair Housing Office as soon as possible to discuss options and waitlists.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with your transition.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you—not in your shipment.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Contact the Fort McNair Housing Office as soon as possible—on-base housing is limited.
- Plan for parking restrictions—Fort McNair has limited parking.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out.
- If moving with pets, research D.C. pet policies and registration requirements.
Important Forms & Links
Start, manage, and track your household goods shipment online.
Find official rates for TLE, DLA, and per diem.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your move.
Learn about on-base housing options and waitlists.