Fort Rucker
Fort Rucker PCS Guide
Fort Rucker in Fort Mitchell, Alabama serves as the primary flight training base for Army Aviation. Known as the "Home of Army Aviation," this installation supports helicopter pilot training, on-base family housing, and access to quality schools. The area offers a mix of on- and off-base amenities. Fort Rucker has a reputation for its specialized mission and strong aviation community.
Base History & Name
UH-60A Black Hawk helicopter
Fort Rucker was established in 1942 during World War II as a key training center for the U.S. Army. Its original mission focused on preparing infantry divisions for combat, but its role shifted rapidly as military aviation became increasingly vital.
The base was constructed in southeastern Alabama, chosen for its favorable weather and open terrain. These conditions were ideal for year-round flight training and helped shape Fort Rucker’s future as an aviation hub.
By the early 1950s, Fort Rucker became the Army's primary aviation training center. The U.S. Army Aviation School relocated here from Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in 1955, marking a major expansion for the base.
New airfields, hangars, and classrooms transformed the installation into a hub for rotary-wing (helicopter) training. The base played a crucial role in preparing aviators for the Korean and Vietnam Wars, where helicopters became essential to Army operations.
Throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century, Fort Rucker remained the heart of Army aviation. It hosted units like the 1st Aviation Brigade and the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence.
The base adapted to evolving technology, training pilots for advanced helicopters such as the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache. Its mission expanded to include unmanned aerial systems and aviation leadership development.
In April 2023, Fort Rucker was officially renamed Fort Novosel. This change honored Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael J. Novosel, a Medal of Honor recipient and legendary Army aviator.
However, an order by President Donald Trump on June 25, 2025, announced plans to rename the base again, this time honoring WWI Aviator Captain Edward W. Rucker. The base was redesignated Fort Rucker on June 11, 2025.
Today, the installation continues to serve as the premier training site for Army aviators. It supports both national defense and the local economy in Alabama, maintaining its vital role in military aviation.
Namesake
Captain Edward W. Rucker was a World War I aviator whose contributions to early military aviation were recognized with the redesignation of the base in his honor in June 2025.
Major Units & Training Programs
Soldiers with the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade(3CAB) perform their duties during Col. Robert B. Harless’ assumption of command ceremony at the 3CAB flight line at Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, Georgia, on April 25, 2025. Harless qualified to fly the CH-47D heavy lift helicopter after...
Major Units
United States Army Aviation Center of Excellence (USAACE)
USAACE develops Army aviation doctrine, trains aviators, and manages aviation-related career fields. It is the primary organization responsible for Army aviation training and leadership development.
1st Aviation Brigade
The 1st Aviation Brigade provides aviation training and support, overseeing initial entry rotary wing training and professional military education for Army aviators.
110th Aviation Brigade
The 110th Aviation Brigade conducts flight training for Army aviators, including basic flight skills, instrument qualification, and advanced aircraft operations.
Training Schools
Army Aviation Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC)
Overview
Prepares newly commissioned officers for leadership roles as Army aviators, covering aviation fundamentals, leadership, and technical skills.
Course Length
6 months
Who Attends
Newly commissioned Army aviation officers
Initial Entry Rotary Wing Training
Overview
Provides foundational helicopter flight training, including basic maneuvers, navigation, and emergency procedures.
Course Length
32-36 weeks
Who Attends
New Army aviators (warrant officers and officers)
Aviation Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC)
Overview
Trains warrant officers in aviation leadership, technical skills, and operational procedures specific to Army aviation.
Course Length
5-7 weeks
Who Attends
New Army aviation warrant officers
Arrival & In-Processing
Soldiers of the 15Q Senior Leader Course at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence Noncommissioned Officer Academy - Fort Rucker bolster morale by holding signs as they waved and yelled cheers encouraging drivers to honk their horns just inside the Daleville gate on Fort Rucker April 15,...
Welcome to Fort Rucker, the U.S. Army’s primary flight training installation. Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Review all requirements before your arrival to avoid delays and ease your check-in process. For more details, visit the official Fort Rucker website.
Fort Rucker’s main access point is the Daleville Gate, located near the town of Daleville. This gate operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. Other gates, such as the Ozark and Enterprise Gates, have limited hours—check current schedules before arrival. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or a state driver’s license that meets REAL ID Act standards. Non-compliant licenses require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates and random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. To obtain visitor or family member passes, report to the Visitor Control Center outside the Daleville Gate with valid photo ID and your sponsor’s information. Allow extra time for processing during peak hours or high-security alerts.
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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 Rucker offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit’s administrative office or use the Army’s online sponsorship portal. Your sponsor can provide personalized support, answer questions, and assist with in-processing steps.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 5700, located near the main Daleville Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete most steps within 2–3 business days, though some requirements may extend this timeline. Bring all required documents and arrive early to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Daleville Gate, the main entrance to Fort Rucker. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering vehicles in DBIDS, and processing guest sponsorship requests. Arrive with valid photo identification and allow time for background checks.
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.
Arriving at Fort Rucker starts with receiving official PCS orders. Next, contact the Transportation Office to begin your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is the DoD’s online tool for managing all aspects of your move, including scheduling Household Goods (HHG) shipments or Personally Procured Moves (PPM/DITY). Using DPS early helps you secure your preferred move dates and track your shipment.
You can choose between a government-arranged HHG shipment or a PPM, where you move your own belongings and may be reimbursed. Each move type has different steps and paperwork, so review your options in DPS. You are also eligible for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to offset hotel costs, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with extra moving expenses. Understanding these benefits helps reduce out-of-pocket costs during your transition.
Fort Rucker has unique requirements for in-processing, so check the base’s arrival guide and connect with your gaining unit. Early coordination with your sponsor and the Transportation Office ensures a smoother welcome and helps avoid common delays.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Contact the Transportation Office as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS documents and orders in a safe, accessible place during travel.
- Take photos of your belongings before pack-out for insurance claims.
- Check Fort Rucker's pet policies and book kennels well in advance if needed.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Avoid peak summer move season if you want more flexibility with moving dates.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
View official rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for every step of your PCS.
Essential in-processing info for Fort Rucker arrivals.
Housing Options
Fort Rucker offers a mix of on-base privatized housing, government-managed units, and off-base rentals in nearby communities. Most military families find options that fit their needs, but availability can fluctuate with PCS season. Waitlists are common for some on-base neighborhoods, especially for larger homes or specific rank bands. Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates at Fort Rucker reflect the moderate cost of living in southeast Alabama. Your BAH depends on rank, dependency status, and location, so check your estimate using our BAH Calculator. Many choose off-base homes in Enterprise, Daleville, or Ozark for more space or school preferences. Utilities are a separate cost for most off-base rentals, so budget accordingly.
BAH Rates (2025)
| Status | E1 | E2 | E3 | E4 | E5 | E6 | E7 | E8 | E9 | W1 | W2 | W3 | W4 | W5 | O1E | O2E | O3E | O1 | O2 | O3 | O4 | O5 | O6 | O7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| With Dependents | $1,392 | $1,392 | $1,392 | $1,392 | $1,503 | $1,665 | $1,848 | $2,049 | $2,256 | $1,680 | $1,932 | $2,181 | $2,286 | $2,412 | $1,881 | $2,145 | $2,301 | $1,530 | $1,662 | $2,172 | $2,454 | $2,649 | $2,670 | $2,691 |
| Without Dependents | $1,137 | $1,137 | $1,137 | $1,137 | $1,224 | $1,287 | $1,395 | $1,542 | $1,692 | $1,368 | $1,539 | $1,695 | $1,728 | $1,893 | $1,500 | $1,608 | $1,725 | $1,278 | $1,470 | $1,698 | $1,857 | $1,986 | $2,163 | $2,199 |
On-Base Neighborhoods
Allen Heights
Allen Heights offers spacious single-family homes with garages, fenced yards, and modern kitchens. Residents enjoy quiet streets, playgrounds, and easy access to the main gate. This neighborhood is popular with senior enlisted and officers' families.
Bowden Terrace
Bowden Terrace features duplex-style homes and townhouses, ideal for junior enlisted and warrant officer families. Amenities include walking trails, basketball courts, and community picnic areas. Its central location is close to schools and the commissary.
Munson Heights
Munson Heights provides affordable duplexes and single-family homes for junior enlisted families. The area offers several playgrounds and is within walking distance of the youth center and CDC. Homes are pet-friendly and have small yards.
Off-Base Areas
Enterprise
Enterprise is the most popular off-base town, known for its strong schools, shopping, and family-friendly vibe. Many military families prefer Enterprise for the larger homes and community amenities. Commute times can stretch during rush hour, but most find the trade-off worthwhile for the quality of life.
Daleville
Daleville sits right outside Fort Rucker’s main gate, making it a top pick for those seeking a short commute. The town offers affordable rentals, local dining, and quick access to base services. While smaller than Enterprise, it’s convenient and military-friendly.
Ozark
Ozark offers a quieter, small-town feel with easy access to parks and outdoor activities. Rents are reasonable, and the town appeals to families who want space and a slower pace. Commute traffic is light, and local schools get solid reviews.
Lodging Options
Fort Rucker offers a mix of on-base and nearby off-base lodging to support service members and families during PCS or TDY. Advance reservations are essential, especially during peak PCS months, as on-base rooms fill quickly. TLFs and official lodging prioritize incoming and outgoing personnel on orders, but space-available bookings may open up last minute. Typical stays range from a few days up to 30 nights, depending on demand and eligibility. Pet-friendly accommodations are limited and often require early requests—always ask about availability and fees before arrival. On-base options offer convenient access to post resources, while select off-base hotels provide military rates, breakfast, and easy commutes to the main gate.
On-Base Lodging
IHG Army Hotels Building 100-300 Series
Located off US-231, just 20 miles from Dothan Regional Airport (DHN), and minutes from Daleville, we are convenient to Fort Rucker facilities including the US Army Aviation Warfighting Center, the US Army Combat Readiness Center and the US Army Warrant Officer Career Center. Also, nearby is the US Army School of Aviation Medicine.
Contact: (334) 598-5216
Visit WebsiteNearby Off-Base Hotels
Candlewood Suites Enterprise
Enterprise, AL, just off US 84, offers spacious rooms with all the essentials and suites with even more so you can settle in, and spread out for short and long-term stays.
