Grafenwoehr Training Area
Grafenwoehr Training Area PCS Guide
Military Base History
Staff members from the Flossenbürg Concentration Camp tour the U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria and Grafenwoehr Training Area, hosted by the 7th Army Training Command (7th ATC) in Grafenwoehr, Germany, Aug. 22, 2024. The tour, led by retired 7th ATC Range Operations employee Josef Neubauer,...
Grafenwoehr Training Area was established in 1910 by the Royal Bavarian Army as a major artillery and maneuver training ground. Its location in Bavaria made it ideal for large-scale exercises and live-fire drills.
The facility quickly became one of the largest military training areas in Germany, supporting extensive military operations and exercises.
During World War II, the German Wehrmacht expanded Grafenwoehr for tank, infantry, and artillery training. The area also hosted prisoner-of-war camps and was bombed by Allied forces.
After Germany's defeat, U.S. Army forces took control of the site in 1945, repurposing it for their own training needs and establishing a long-term presence.
Throughout the Cold War, Grafenwoehr served as a critical NATO training hub. U.S. and allied forces used the area to prepare for potential conflict with Warsaw Pact nations.
The facility saw frequent upgrades to ranges and infrastructure, including new barracks and support buildings. Key units like the 7th Army and 1st Infantry Division have trained here.
Today, Grafenwoehr Training Area is a centerpiece of U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria, supporting multinational exercises, live-fire training, and readiness operations.
The installation is vital for U.S. and NATO forces in Europe, helping maintain interoperability and rapid response capabilities.
The name "Grafenwoehr Training Area" has remained consistent since its establishment, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Capt. Will Quackenbush, “Archer” battery commander assigned to Field Artillery Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, demonstrates loading a 155mm round into the chamber of a M777A2 howitzer at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Bavaria, Germany, May 2, 2025. In the section-level certification,...
Major Units
7th Army Training Command (7th ATC)
The 7th Army Training Command is responsible for providing realistic and relevant training to U.S. Army Europe and Africa forces, NATO allies, and partner nations. It manages the Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas, supporting multinational readiness.
Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine (JMTG-U)
JMTG-U oversees the training and readiness of Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel, coordinating multinational support and exercises to enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
41st Field Artillery Brigade
The 41st Field Artillery Brigade provides long-range precision fires in support of U.S. Army Europe and NATO operations, enhancing deterrence and defense in the European theater.
Training Schools
Combined Arms Training Center (CATC)
Overview
CATC offers a variety of courses focused on combined arms operations, leadership development, and specialized military skills to U.S., NATO, and partner nation forces.
Course Length
Varies (from several days to several weeks depending on course)
Who Attends
U.S. Army, NATO, and partner nation personnel
Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) Rotational Training
Overview
The JMRC conducts large-scale, force-on-force training exercises to prepare units for deployment and multinational operations, using realistic scenarios and live-fire exercises.
Course Length
2-4 weeks (per rotation)
Who Attends
Brigade Combat Teams, multinational units, and allied forces
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to 4th Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment fire a M777A2 Howitzer during a field artillery night live fire exercise. This training is part of Exercise Bayonet Ready 22 at the Joint Multinational Training Center in the Grafenwoehr Training Area,...
Welcome to Grafenwoehr Training Area! Arriving at a new duty station is exciting, but preparation is key for a smooth transition. Knowing what to expect at the gate and having the right documents ready will help you and your family settle in quickly. For more information, visit the official Grafenwoehr Training Area website.
Grafenwoehr Training Area's main entry point is the Main Gate, located near the center of the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring access for incoming personnel at any time. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued identification. If you use a state driver's license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant IDs will not grant access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security measures. If you have family or visitors arriving, they must check in at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a temporary pass. Always follow gate guard instructions and allow extra time for security procedures, especially during peak hours or heightened security postures.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Passports (for all family members, if applicable)
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Marriage Certificate
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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
Grafenwoehr Training Area offers a robust sponsor program to help you settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office or use the Army's online sponsorship portal. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and help with local in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Bldg 244, located near the Main Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. Key steps include Personnel and Finance briefings, Housing office visits, Medical and Dental check-ins, and unit orientation. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your arrival time and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturdays, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsorship paperwork for family and friends. Arrive early to avoid wait times, especially during high-traffic periods.
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 Grafenwoehr Training Area starts with receiving your official PCS orders. Next, contact your current installation’s Transportation Office to schedule your move and discuss your options: Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Each method has specific requirements and reimbursement options, so review details in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil.
You may be eligible for key entitlements, including Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs, and Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover short-term housing while you secure permanent quarters. Using DPS is crucial—it tracks your shipment, lets you upload documents, and provides status updates. Start early, keep records, and use official resources to avoid delays. For Grafenwoehr, coordinate closely with the local Transportation Office for area-specific guidance and in-processing requirements.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep original orders and key documents with you during travel.
- Double-check HHG weight limits to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination.
- Schedule pet travel and vaccinations early.
- Contact the Grafenwoehr Transportation Office for local move guidance.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find official travel and transportation allowance rates.
Comprehensive relocation resources and support.
Estimate your DLA entitlement.
Official arrival and in-processing information for Grafenwoehr.