Fort Riley
Fort Riley PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Cody Schickedanz, project engineer at the Fort Riley Resident Office, Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, discusses how the widows of Building 223 were replaced as part of its historic renovation on March 25, 2024. The Kansas City District completed the project in October 2023.
Fort Riley was established in 1853 to protect settlers and trade routes along the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails. Its original mission focused on safeguarding westward expansion and maintaining order in the Kansas Territory.
The post's location near the confluence of the Republican and Smoky Hill Rivers made it a strategic site for military operations on the frontier.
Construction at Fort Riley began with simple wooden structures, but by the late 19th century, the Army replaced these with enduring limestone buildings. The post expanded significantly during the Indian Wars.
Fort Riley served as a key training and staging area for cavalry units. The Cavalry School, established in 1887, cemented Fort Riley's reputation as a premier training center for mounted troops.
During World War II, Fort Riley saw rapid growth as it mobilized and trained thousands of soldiers. The 1st Infantry Division, known as "The Big Red One," was stationed here before deploying overseas.
The post played a vital role in preparing troops for combat and adapting to mechanized warfare.
Today, Fort Riley is home to the 1st Infantry Division and continues to serve as a major training and deployment hub for the U.S. Army.
The installation supports active-duty personnel, families, and civilian employees, contributing significantly to the local economy and community.
Fort Riley has maintained its original name since its founding, honoring its historical legacy without any official name changes.
Namesake
He is best known for leading the first military escort along the Santa Fe Trail in 1829, ensuring the safety of traders and settlers. General Riley's leadership and commitment to westward expansion made him a fitting namesake for this important frontier post.
Major Units & Training Programs
A Soldier from the 82nd Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, picks up firing line near a radio repeater tower after combat engineers felled the structure in Teterville, Kansas, April 23, 2025. Fort Riley Soldiers brought down the tower for the Tulsa District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers...
Major Units
1st Infantry Division
The 1st Infantry Division, known as 'The Big Red One,' is the primary active-duty division at Fort Riley. Its mission is to deploy, fight, and win in ground combat operations, and it serves as a key force provider for contingency operations worldwide.
1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division
This brigade provides armored combat power and is responsible for conducting offensive, defensive, and stability operations as part of the division’s mission. It is equipped with tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and supporting assets.
2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division
The 2nd ABCT specializes in combined arms maneuver and is trained to deploy rapidly in support of national defense objectives. It integrates infantry, armor, artillery, and support units for full-spectrum ground operations.
Training Schools
Digital Training Facility (DTF) Programs
Overview
Provides soldiers with computer-based training in leadership, technical skills, and professional development. Courses are often self-paced and support ongoing education.
Course Length
Varies (from a few days to several weeks)
Who Attends
Active duty soldiers, NCOs, and officers assigned to Fort Riley
Arrival & In-Processing
David Jones, operation manager, Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation explained the partnership between the Department of Defense and public schools serving military families started at Fort Riley when a parent asked a question about support to on-post schools to then Secretary of...
Welcome to Fort Riley! Arriving at a new installation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared makes your check-in smooth and stress-free. Review these steps to ensure you and your family have everything needed for a successful start. For more details, visit the official Fort Riley website.
Fort Riley's primary entry point is the Henry Gate, which operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Marshall Army Airfield Gate and Trooper Gate have limited hours, so check the base website for updates. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a state-issued driver's license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Non-compliant IDs are not accepted for access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security is strict—ensure your vehicle registration and insurance are current. Visitors and family members without a DoD ID must get a visitor pass from the Visitor Control Center before entering. Sponsors can assist with pre-approval for smoother access.
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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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Housing Assignment paperwork (if available)
Fort Riley offers a robust sponsor program to help newcomers settle in. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit or through the Army Career Tracker (ACT) Sponsorship Module. Your sponsor will provide local insights and help coordinate your arrival.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 210 on Custer Avenue, for in-processing. The center 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 business days, depending on your needs and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Henry Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday/Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in here before accessing the base.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Before packing personal property for a permanent change of station move overseas, there are three critical steps Soldiers must complete to successfully make a smooth OCONUS transition, said Connie Silk, supervisor of the Relocation Readiness Program, Army Community Service. For more information, call 270-798-6313 or 270-798-0513.
When you receive PCS orders to Fort Riley, start by reviewing your orders and contacting the Transportation Office to discuss your move options. The two main types are Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, and Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called DITY, where you move your belongings yourself for possible reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your move, upload documents, and communicate with your transportation office. DPS is the required system for all official military moves, so register early and keep your login handy. You may be eligible for key entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to help cover hotel costs while house hunting, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving expenses. Check the latest rates and rules for both, and keep receipts for all related expenses.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a Fort Riley sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Schedule your move in DPS early to secure preferred dates.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important papers in your carry-on bag.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out for insurance.
- Double-check weight allowances to avoid excess charges.
- Contact the Transportation Office with any questions—don’t wait.
- Plan ahead for pet transportation and local housing availability.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move online.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS.
Base-specific arrival info and resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Childcare Options
Fort Riley Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for young children. The center is NAEYC accredited, offering a safe, nurturing environment with age-appropriate activities.
Fort Riley School Age Center (SAC)
The SAC offers before- and after-school care, as well as full-day programs during school breaks. Activities focus on homework support, recreation, and social development. Accredited by COA.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer flexible, home-based care on Fort Riley. Options include full-day, part-day, and hourly care. All providers are certified and monitored for quality and safety.
Local Schools
Geary County USD 475
USD 475 serves most of Fort Riley and Junction City. The district has a strong partnership with the military community and offers dedicated programs for military children. GreatSchools.org ratings are average to above average, with some schools recognized for STEM and support services.
Manhattan-Ogden USD 383
USD 383 covers Manhattan, KS, and is known for strong academics, advanced placement courses, and robust extracurriculars. The district receives high marks for college readiness and has above-average GreatSchools.org ratings.
St. Xavier Catholic School
St. Xavier offers a faith-based education for PreK-12. The school is praised for its small class sizes, personalized attention, and supportive environment. Parent reviews highlight community involvement and academic rigor.