Fort Shafter
Fort Shafter PCS and Relocation Guide
Base History & Name
Command Sgt. Maj. Scott A. Brzak, incoming U.S. Army Pacific command sergeant major, gives his remarks at USARPAC’s change of responsibility ceremony July 10, 2020, at Historic Palm Circle, Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Brzak was former Command Sergeant Major for G3/5/7 Operations, Plans and Training...
Fort Shafter was established in 1907 as the headquarters for the U.S. Army in Hawaii. The base’s original mission focused on coastal defense and regional command, reflecting the growing strategic importance of Hawaii to U.S. military planning in the early 20th century.
Construction began in 1905, with Palm Circle and the iconic barracks and administrative buildings forming the core of the installation. Over time, Fort Shafter expanded to accommodate new units and missions, especially during periods of heightened military activity.
World War II marked a major turning point for Fort Shafter. The base served as the headquarters for U.S. Army Forces in the Pacific, coordinating defense and logistics for the entire theater.
Key units, including the U.S. Army Pacific Command, operated from Fort Shafter, making it a nerve center for Allied operations during the war.
During the Cold War and beyond, Fort Shafter remained a vital command post, adapting to new missions as the U.S. military’s focus shifted. Today, it houses the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) headquarters, overseeing Army operations across the Asia-Pacific region.
The base also supports local communities through partnerships and disaster response efforts, strengthening its ties to Hawaii beyond its military role.
Fort Shafter has retained its original name since its establishment, honoring Major General William Rufus Shafter. There have been no significant official name changes throughout its history.
Namesake
General Shafter's leadership during the Santiago campaign in Cuba earned him national recognition. His career exemplified dedication and service, making him a fitting namesake for this key Army installation in the Pacific.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Michael D. Rose, Commander of the 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force, hosts Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd, Deputy Commander U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, for discussions on the 3rd MDTF’s role in supporting Army transformation and advancing Multi-Domain Operations across the Indo-Pacific,...
Major Units
U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC)
USARPAC is the Army component command for the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, responsible for overseeing Army operations and readiness across the Asia-Pacific region.
8th Theater Sustainment Command
The 8th Theater Sustainment Command provides logistics, sustainment, and support operations for Army forces throughout the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility.
311th Signal Command (Theater)
The 311th Signal Command delivers and manages communications, cyber, and information systems support for Army operations in the Pacific region.
Arrival & In-Processing
FORT SHAFTER FLATS, HAWAII—4960th Multi-Functional Training Brigade School House, Senior Instructor Sgt. First Class Gates provides remedial training to Maj. Faasaviglia Tafao during the Interior Electrician Course. Installing electrical switches is one of the many requirements to graduate...
Welcome to Fort Shafter! Arriving at a new installation can be a busy time, but being prepared will help your check-in go smoothly. Review these steps to ensure you and your family have a seamless arrival. For more detailed information, visit the official Fort Shafter website.
Fort Shafter’s main entrance is the Buckner Gate, located near the base’s central area. Buckner Gate is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a state driver’s license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for entry. Expect 100% ID checks at all times, and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. Family members and visitors without DoD credentials must stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass. Sponsors must be present or provide pre-approval for guest 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 Documents (if available)
Most incoming personnel are assigned a sponsor through their gaining unit. To request a sponsor, contact your unit’s administrative office or use the Army’s Sponsorship Program via the Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) portal. Your sponsor will guide you through arrival, in-processing, and local resources.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 750, located near the main part of Fort Shafter. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During in-processing, you will visit Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. The process usually takes 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and required briefings. Arrive early to maximize your time and complete all steps efficiently.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside Buckner Gate, the main entrance to Fort Shafter. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in here before accessing the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
With a large portion of military moves requiring the involvement of packers and movers, it’s the Army Transportation Office’s job to ensure standards are being met.
Arriving at Fort Shafter starts with receiving your official PCS orders. Next, contact the Transportation Office to schedule your move and get guidance. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and ship your items, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY), where you handle your own move and may be reimbursed. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up, track, and manage your shipment. This system is essential for all military moves and keeps you updated throughout the process.
Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help cover costs during your move. TLE covers part of your temporary lodging and meals while you secure housing at Fort Shafter. DLA helps offset moving costs not covered by other allowances. Check current rates and eligibility before you move. Early planning and using official resources will make your PCS to Fort Shafter smoother.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as possible.
- Book temporary lodging early; on-base options fill quickly.
- Keep orders, medical records, and important documents with you during travel.
- Double-check weight allowances to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of high-value items before the movers arrive.
- Label boxes with your name and new address for easier delivery.
- If moving with pets, review Hawaii’s quarantine and entry requirements well in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Set up and manage your household goods shipment.
Check current TLE, DLA, and other PCS allowances.
Comprehensive PCS planning tools and checklists.
Base-specific information and arrival resources.