Fort Myer
Fort Myer PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Lt. Gen. Jeffery Talley, Chief of Army Reserve, commanding general of United States Army Reserve Command, talks to 90 soldiers representing 11 major subordinate commands of the USARC during a rehearsal at Fort Myer, Va., Jan. 20, in preparation for the 57th Presidential Inauguration parade...
Fort Myer began as Fort Whipple in 1863, built to defend Washington, D.C., during the Civil War. Its location on Arlington Heights made it a key part of the capital’s defenses. The post was renamed in 1881 to honor Brigadier General Albert J. Myer, founder of the U.S. Army Signal Corps.
Fort Myer became a center for military innovation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The post hosted the Signal Corps School and gained fame for early aviation experiments, including the Wright brothers’ demonstration flights.
The base also served as a home for Army cavalry units, which performed ceremonial duties in the National Capital Region. These traditions helped shape Fort Myer’s enduring role in military history.
During World War I and World War II, Fort Myer expanded to support mobilization and training. The post played a vital role in communications and logistics for the U.S. Army.
Its proximity to Arlington National Cemetery made Fort Myer central to military honors and funerals. The installation adapted during the Cold War, supporting the Pentagon and other defense agencies.
Today, Fort Myer is part of Joint Base Myer–Henderson Hall, formed in 2005 by merging with the adjacent Marine Corps installation. The base remains a hub for ceremonial units, including the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army Band.
The base supports military families, honors, and community events, maintaining its historic ties to the nation’s capital. Fort Myer continues to play a vital role in the life of the military and the Washington, D.C., community.
Namesake
Myer's work laid the foundation for modern military communications. His leadership and vision earned him recognition as the "Father of the Signal Corps," and his legacy continues through the Army's ongoing communications missions.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Luke Ahmann, commander of the Continental United States North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, First Air Force Northern and Air Forces Space, and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Frank M. Rice, commander of the 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, stand with the...
Major Units
3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
Serves as the Army's official ceremonial unit and escort to the President of the United States, responsible for conducting military ceremonies, funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, and security for the National Capital Region.
The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own"
Provides musical support for official military and government functions, ceremonies, and public events in the National Capital Region, representing the Army through music.
Arrival & In-Processing
A Soldier from A Company, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, Fort Riley, Kansas, interviews a personnel coming through the Adams Gate at U.S. Army Garrison-Humphreys, South Korea, for any indicators of the coronavirus. (U.S. Army photo by James Myer)
Welcome to Fort Myer! Arriving at a new duty station can be a big transition, so being prepared will help make your check-in process smooth and efficient. Review the steps below to ensure you have all necessary documents and understand base access procedures. For more details, visit the official Fort Myer website.
Fort Myer’s main access point is the Hatfield Gate, which is open 24/7 for all personnel and vehicles. Wright Gate is another entry option, but its hours may be limited to weekdays and standard duty hours. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved identification. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for base access. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates and be prepared for random vehicle inspections. Security is a top priority, so follow all posted instructions and remain alert. Visitors and family members without military credentials must stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass before entering 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 applicable)
Fort Myer offers a robust sponsor program for all incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit’s administrative office as soon as you receive your assignment. They will assign a sponsor who can answer questions, assist with in-processing, and help you settle in. If you have not been contacted by a sponsor, reach out directly to your unit or the Fort Myer Welcome Center for assistance.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 202, near the main entrance to Fort Myer. Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 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 specific needs and required briefings. Arrive early with all necessary documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Hatfield Gate at Fort Myer. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsoring non-DoD visitors. All guests must be sponsored by an authorized ID cardholder and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Because peak permanent change of station moving season is upon us, it is advisable if you already have your PCS orders to schedule you household packing and shipment with transportation and personal property, said Connie Silk, Army Community Service. Currently on Fort Campbell there could be a four- to six-week delay to get an appointment. (U.S. Army)
Arriving at Fort Myer starts with receiving official PCS orders. Once you have your orders, contact the Fort Myer Transportation Office to coordinate your move. Most service members choose between 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 and track your shipment. This online portal is required for all DoD moves and ensures you stay updated on your shipment status.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Fort Myer Transportation Office early to book movers.
- Keep orders, IDs, and essential documents with you during travel.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out.
- Plan pet transportation and lodging in advance—pet-friendly options are limited near DC.
- Review traffic and parking rules at Fort Myer—space is limited.
- Check for local lodging availability early, especially during summer PCS season.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find current rates for TLE, DLA, and per diem.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your PCS.
Key information for new arrivals at Fort Myer.