JBSA Fort Sam Houston
JBSA Fort Sam Houston PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Brazilian army Col. Sergio Reis Matos, the Brazilian partner nation liaison officer at U.S. Army South (USARSOUTH), poses for a photo in his office at the USARSOUTH headquarters at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, on Jan. 7, 2025. Since July 2023, Matos has worked to strengthen the historic partnership...
Fort Sam Houston began in 1876 as a strategic U.S. Army outpost in San Antonio, Texas. The Army established the post to support frontier defense and regional military operations, leveraging San Antonio’s historic role as a military crossroads.
Over the decades, the post expanded with new barracks, headquarters, and training facilities. These additions reflected Fort Sam Houston’s growing importance within the U.S. military infrastructure.
During World War I and World War II, Fort Sam Houston became a major mobilization and training center. The post hosted key units such as the 2nd Division and the Army Medical Department, playing a critical role in preparing troops for deployment.
The installation’s medical mission grew rapidly with the construction of Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) in the 1930s and 1940s. This development cemented Fort Sam Houston’s reputation as the “Home of Army Medicine.”
The Cold War era saw further growth, as the post supported both Army and Air Force missions. The installation adapted to evolving defense needs, expanding its facilities and capabilities.
In 2010, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process merged Fort Sam Houston with Lackland and Randolph Air Force Bases. This merger formed Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), streamlining support and operations across all services.
Today, JBSA Fort Sam Houston is a cornerstone of military medicine and joint training. The installation houses the U.S. Army North, U.S. Army South, and the Medical Education and Training Campus (METC), serving as a hub for defense health and regional command.
The installation remains vital to both the military and the San Antonio community. JBSA Fort Sam Houston supports readiness and innovation across the Department of Defense, ensuring continued excellence in military operations and healthcare.
Namesake
He later became the first President of the Republic of Texas, a U.S. Senator, and Governor of Texas. Houston's leadership and legacy as a statesman and military commander made him a fitting namesake for this historic installation.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Abril Martinez-Vasquez, 502d Security Forces Squadron non-commissioned officer in charge of training, delivers Spanish language translation during the Great Texas Freedom Fest at Joint Base San Antonio–Fort Sam Houston, Texas, April 12, 2025. The event’s theme,...
Major Units
502d Air Base Wing
Provides installation support and mission support for Joint Base San Antonio, including airfield operations and base services for all tenant units.
59th Medical Wing
Delivers medical education, training, and healthcare support for Air Force personnel, and manages aeromedical evacuation operations.
Air Force Medical Readiness Agency (AFMRA)
Oversees Air Force medical readiness, policy, and training programs, ensuring operational medical support for Air Force missions worldwide.
Training Schools
U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM) - Detachment at JBSA
Overview
Provides training in aerospace medicine, aeromedical evacuation, and operational medical support for Air Force personnel.
Course Length
Varies by course (typically 2-12 weeks)
Who Attends
Air Force medical officers, enlisted medical personnel, and aerospace medicine specialists
Aeromedical Evacuation Initial Qualification Course
Overview
Trains Air Force personnel in the fundamentals of aeromedical evacuation, including in-flight patient care and air operations procedures.
Course Length
6 weeks
Who Attends
Air Force aeromedical evacuation crew members and medical staff
Arrival & In-Processing
Caitlin Chun, executive assistant Naval Medical Forces Support Command, right, U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Cynthia Kuhner, NMFSC commander, center, and U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Jason Reynolds, NMFSC CMC, left, hold encouragement signs during a "Stand Against Sexual Assault" drive-by information...
Welcome to JBSA Fort Sam Houston! Arriving at a new base can be a big transition, but being prepared with the right documents and information will help your check-in go smoothly. Review these steps carefully to ensure a stress-free arrival. For more details, visit the official JBSA website.
JBSA Fort Sam Houston's main entrance is the Walters Street Gate. This gate is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. Other gates, such as the Harry Wurzbach and Winfield Scott gates, have limited hours—check current schedules before arrival. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved credentials. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all entry points. Security is a top priority, so allow extra time for gate processing. Visitors and family members without DoD credentials must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center. 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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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
JBSA Fort Sam Houston offers a robust sponsor program. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or request assignment through your unit's administrative office. Many units also provide an online sponsor request form. Your sponsor will help you with arrival, in-processing, and local resources.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 367, located near the main installation area. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit in-processing. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Walters Street Main Gate. 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. Bring valid photo ID and any required paperwork for your visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Jerry Leama, Barry Van Lines mover, carries a box of household goods onto a moving truck on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, July 16, 2021. Dover AFB and the Air Force Aid Society provide 20 hours of free permanent change of station care for each child upon arrival to and departure from their duty stations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicole Leidholm)
Log in to the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) as soon as you have orders. DPS is the mandatory online portal for scheduling, tracking, and managing your move. You will also need to understand key entitlements: Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover short-term lodging and meals while you secure housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset relocation costs. Check current rates and eligibility to maximize your benefits.
JBSA Fort Sam Houston is a busy joint base serving all branches. Plan for possible delays during peak PCS season (May–August). Contact the local Transportation Office for guidance on local rules and resources. Review base-specific arrival guides for info on in-processing and support services.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local insights and in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos or videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Contact the Transportation Office to confirm delivery dates and procedures.
- Plan pet travel and lodging in advance, as pet-friendly options fill fast.
Important Forms & Links
Access the system to schedule and track your move.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Get relocation support, checklists, and counseling.
Official JBSA arrival information and resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Childcare Options
Fort Sam Houston Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is nationally accredited and follows DoD curriculum standards.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers home-based childcare by certified providers on-base and in affiliated homes. Services include full-day, part-day, and hourly care, with flexible options for military schedules.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
SAC provides before- and after-school care, holiday camps, and summer programs for school-age children. The program is accredited and offers homework help, enrichment, and recreation.
Youth Programs at Fort Sam Houston Youth Center
The Youth Center offers after-school activities, leadership clubs, sports, and summer camps for preteens and teens. Programs are designed to build confidence and social skills in a safe environment.
Local Schools
San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD)
SAISD is the primary district serving Fort Sam Houston. The district offers diverse academic programs, including STEM, dual language, and gifted education. Some schools have earned high ratings for college readiness and extracurricular opportunities (source: Texas Education Agency).
Alamo Heights Independent School District
Alamo Heights ISD is known for strong academics, high graduation rates, and robust arts programs. Schools in this district often receive A or B ratings from the Texas Education Agency and above-average reviews on GreatSchools.org.
Keystone School
Keystone School is a top-rated private school in San Antonio, recognized for its rigorous college-prep curriculum and small class sizes. The school consistently ranks among the best in Texas for academics and student outcomes (source: Niche.com).
IDEA Public Schools - San Antonio
IDEA Public Schools offer tuition-free, college-preparatory education with a strong focus on STEM and college readiness. Several IDEA campuses in San Antonio have received high marks for academic growth and student achievement (source: GreatSchools.org).
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
JB San Antonio-Lackland, TX Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from JB San Antonio-Lackland, TX, 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.