Fort Sill
Fort Sill PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Representatives of AUSA visit Fort Sill and express their gratitude to Soldiers during a live fire training event.
Fort Sill was established in 1869 as a frontier outpost during the Indian Wars. Its original mission was to control the Southern Plains and protect settlers in Indian Territory.
The post quickly became a key hub for military operations in the region. It supported campaigns against the Comanche, Kiowa, and other tribes.
Major construction and expansion occurred in the early 20th century as Fort Sill transitioned into a center for artillery training. The Field Artillery School was founded in 1911, cementing the base's reputation as the "Home of the Field Artillery."
During World War I and World War II, the installation expanded rapidly to train tens of thousands of soldiers. Notable units included the famed 45th Infantry Division and other artillery groups.
Throughout the Cold War and into the present day, Fort Sill has remained the primary training site for U.S. Army field artillery. The base also became home to the Air Defense Artillery School in 2010, further expanding its mission.
Today, Fort Sill trains soldiers from across the U.S. and allied nations. The base supports advanced weapons testing and serves as a major employer in southwest Oklahoma.
Fort Sill has retained its original name since its founding. There have been no significant official name changes.
The installation continues to play a vital role in Army readiness and the local community.
Namesake
General Sill was killed in action at the Battle of Stones River in Tennessee on December 31, 1862. His legacy of service and sacrifice is honored through the naming of the installation, reflecting his commitment to duty and the Army.
Major Units & Training Programs
Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 75th Field Artillery Brigade (75th FAB), learned about diet and fitness from the Armed Forces Wellness Center staff as part of their Military Readiness Training class in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, March 28, 2025. Every Soldier in the 75th FAB...
Major Units
U.S. Army Field Artillery School (USAFAS)
Responsible for training and developing Army Field Artillery soldiers and officers, establishing doctrine, and advancing artillery capabilities for U.S. and allied forces.
75th Field Artillery Brigade
Provides combat-ready field artillery forces to support joint and combined arms operations, specializing in long-range precision fires.
428th Field Artillery Brigade
Conducts advanced individual training for field artillery enlisted soldiers and officers, preparing them for operational assignments.
Training Schools
Basic Officer Leader Course (Field Artillery)
Overview
Prepares newly commissioned Army officers for leadership and technical responsibilities in field artillery units, including tactics, gunnery, and fire support.
Course Length
18 weeks
Who Attends
Newly commissioned Army officers assigned to the Field Artillery branch
Advanced Individual Training (13-series MOS)
Overview
Provides specialized instruction in field artillery occupational specialties, such as cannon crewmember (13B), fire support specialist (13F), and other related MOSs.
Course Length
7-9 weeks (varies by MOS)
Who Attends
Enlisted soldiers entering field artillery specialties
Arrival & In-Processing
Firefighters from Station 1, along with Sparky the Fire Dog and Cory Gerrard, assistant fire chief, Fort Sill Fire Department, stand by the Fire Prevention Week banner Oct. 11, 2023, and wave to motorists entering Fort Sill at Key Gate.
Welcome to Fort Sill! Arriving at a new installation can feel overwhelming, but preparation is key to a smooth transition. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during in-processing will help you settle in quickly. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Fort Sill website.
Fort Sill's main entrance is the Bentley Gate, located off Sheridan Road. The Bentley Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel, making it the primary access point for most arrivals. Additional gates, such as Key Gate East and West, have limited hours—check the Fort Sill website for current schedules. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a state-issued driver's license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates. Vehicle inspections are random but thorough; ensure your registration and insurance are up to date. Security is strict to protect the community. Visitors and family members without DoD credentials must stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or submit pre-approval paperwork for guests. Plan for extra time during high-traffic periods or when bringing visitors.
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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 arranged in advance)
Fort Sill offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or use the Army's Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) online portal. Your unit S1 or personnel office can assist if you have not been assigned a sponsor before arrival.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 4700, near the main installation area. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During in-processing, you'll visit key offices such as Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most new arrivals complete this process within two to three business days, though timing may vary based on individual needs.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Bentley Gate, making it easy to access before entering Fort Sill. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering guests in DBIDS, and processing sponsorship paperwork. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak hours or holidays.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Former claims advisor, current quality assurance/quality control inspector at the 403rd Army Field Support Brigade Logistics Readiness Center-Daegu, and military spouse, Chalon Conley-Mosley, shows one of the informational booklets she made to educate and inform service members about how to submit a claim.
Arriving at Fort Sill starts with receiving your official PCS orders. Next, contact the Fort Sill Transportation Office to schedule your move and discuss shipment options. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move, where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to manage your move, track shipments, and upload required documents. DPS is your main tool throughout the relocation process.
You may be eligible for key entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to help cover hotel costs while house hunting or waiting for housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset miscellaneous moving costs. Be sure to keep all receipts and check current rates. Fort Sill has unique in-processing steps, so review the base’s newcomer guides and reach out to your sponsor for details on local procedures. Early planning and communication are essential for a smooth transition.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Schedule your HHG or PPM move early to secure preferred dates.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out for insurance.
- Label boxes by room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Contact Fort Sill Housing early if you need on-post accommodations.
- Check local pet policies and plan for veterinary care in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Access and manage your PCS move online.
Official rates for DLA, TLE, and other PCS entitlements.
Comprehensive PCS planning tools and relocation support.
Base-specific information and in-processing steps.
Schools & Childcare
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Families stationed at Fort Sill rely on local public school districts for K-12 education, as there are no DoDEA schools on the installation. The Lawton Public Schools district serves most military-connected students living on and near Fort Sill, offering a range of academic and extracurricular programs. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your key contact for navigating school enrollment, understanding district policies, and connecting with special education services. Reach out to the SLO early to get tailored guidance and support for your family's needs.
Childcare Options
Fort Sill Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The center is NAEYC-accredited, ensuring high-quality early childhood education.
Fort Sill School Age Center (SAC)
The SAC provides before- and after-school care, holiday care, and summer camps. Programs focus on homework help, recreation, and social development. Accredited by Council on Accreditation (COA).
Fort Sill Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers care in certified on-base homes, with flexible hours and small group settings. Options include full-time, part-time, and hourly care. Providers are trained and regularly inspected.
Local Schools
Lawton Public Schools
Lawton Public Schools is the primary district for Fort Sill families, known for its diverse programs and support for military children. The district offers STEM magnet programs, Advanced Placement, and career tech options. Ratings on GreatSchools.org vary by campus, but the district is praised for its military family resources.
Eisenhower High School
Eisenhower High School, part of Lawton Public Schools, offers strong academic and athletic programs. It is recognized for its JROTC program and a range of AP courses. The school has above-average ratings for college readiness and graduation rates (GreatSchools.org).
St. Mary’s Catholic School
St. Mary’s Catholic School in Lawton provides a faith-based education for Pre-K through 8th grade. The school is noted for small class sizes, a close-knit community, and strong academic outcomes.