Guantanamo Bay
Guantanamo Bay PCS Guide
Military Base History
Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Commanding Officer, Capt. Mike Stephen, talks to Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) aboard a U-boat in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on March 28, 2025. Stephen provided a brief about the base and provided a tour of the installation with Command Master Chief, Kenneth Nixon. Commander,...
Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, often called "GTMO," is the oldest overseas U.S. Navy base. The United States established the base in 1898 during the Spanish-American War, securing a strategic foothold in the Caribbean.
The base’s original purpose was to serve as a coaling and naval station. The 1903 Cuban–American Treaty formalized U.S. control, granting the Navy a permanent lease on the site.
Major construction and expansion occurred during World War II, transforming GTMO into a critical logistics and training hub for Atlantic and Caribbean operations. The base supported anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort missions, hosting thousands of personnel.
During the Cold War, GTMO’s role shifted to monitoring Soviet activity and serving as a deterrent near communist Cuba.
Key units at the base have included fleet support, Marine security detachments, and logistics commands. In the 1990s, the base housed Haitian and Cuban migrants during regional crises.
After 2002, the U.S. established detention facilities for suspected terrorists, making GTMO a focal point in the Global War on Terror.
Today, Guantanamo Bay Naval Base supports U.S. Navy operations, provides regional security, and serves as a logistics hub. It also houses the controversial detention center.
The base has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
A U.S. Marine assigned to Joint Task Force Southern Guard stands guard on the flight line during an illegal alien removal flight at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, April 30, 2025. The JTF-SG is providing support to illegal alien holding operations led by the Department of Homeland security....
Major Units
Naval Station Guantanamo Bay
Serves as the primary U.S. naval base in the Caribbean, providing logistical support, harbor operations, and security for U.S. and allied vessels transiting the region.
Joint Task Force Guantanamo
Responsible for the operation of detention facilities and associated security, intelligence, and legal support missions at Guantanamo Bay.
Naval Hospital Guantanamo Bay
Provides comprehensive medical care and health services to military personnel, detainees, and authorized civilians on the base.
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. John Hewitt, commander, Navy Region Southeast, discuss base security operations with Marines assigned to Marine Corps Security Force Company (MCSF Co) at the Northeast...
Welcome to Guantanamo Bay! Arriving at this unique installation requires careful planning and attention to detail. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the access process will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. For more information, visit the official Guantanamo Bay website.
The main entry point to Guantanamo Bay is the Ferry Landing, which serves as the primary access for all arriving personnel and families. The Ferry Landing operates 24/7 to accommodate incoming flights and ferry arrivals. All adults must present a valid Military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) to enter. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's strict security posture. Family members and visitors must be pre-cleared and obtain a temporary pass before arrival; sponsors should coordinate with the Visitor Control Center for these passes.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Passports (for all family members)
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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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Medical and Dental Records
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
Guantanamo Bay offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or command as soon as you receive orders. Sponsors provide essential information, arrange transportation, and assist with in-processing. If you have not been assigned a sponsor, reach out to the Fleet and Family Support Center for assistance.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, located near the Ferry Landing. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday from 0800 to 1630. Key steps include check-in with Personnel Support Detachment (PSD), Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for in-processing to take 2-3 business days, depending on your arrival schedule and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located adjacent to the Ferry Landing, just outside the main entry point to the base. The VCC is open Monday through Friday from 0800 to 1600. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be pre-cleared and accompanied by a sponsor.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Ronald Jackson and Marsha Whitmire, quality assurance inspectors with the 72nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, inspect a moldy pallet at the business location of a local moving company. The company had received the pallet in less-than-desirable condition and immediately notified the Personal Property and Passenger Movement Section.
Arriving at Guantanamo Bay requires careful planning. Start by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office as soon as possible. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to set up your move and track shipments. Early coordination helps avoid delays, especially for overseas locations like GTMO. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and ship your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Know your weight allowance to avoid extra costs. Service members are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for temporary housing while waiting for permanent quarters, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset moving costs. Check the latest rates and entitlements before moving. Guantanamo Bay has unique entry requirements. Ensure all travel documents, passports, and visas (if applicable for dependents) are in order. Pets and vehicles require additional paperwork and coordination. Review the base arrival guide for local procedures and restrictions.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Double-check passport and visa requirements for all family members.
- Coordinate pet travel and required vaccinations early.
- Keep travel and medical documents with you during transit.
- Use the DPS system to monitor your HHG shipment status.
- Ask the Transportation Office about vehicle shipment rules for GTMO.
- Review the base welcome guide for local procedures and restrictions.
Important Forms & Links
Start and track your move in the Defense Personal Property System.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Comprehensive PCS planning tools and checklists.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Official base arrival information and contacts.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Air-conditioned seating area with restrooms and charging stations.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet available throughout the terminal.
Snack Bar/Vending Machines
Light snacks, beverages, and vending machines available for passengers.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax), Florida
High demand for seats; plan for flexibility and pack snacks for the flight.
Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia
Weather delays possible in hurricane season; check for updates before travel.
Miami International Airport, Florida
Limited baggage; confirm requirements in advance and arrive early for processing.