Katterbach Kaserne
Katterbach Kaserne PCS Guide
Military Base History
Soldiers from Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, were welcomed home in a ceremony from a nine-month deployment to the Eastern Flank on Katterbach Kaserne, Ansbach, Germany, February 26, 2024. The unit, part of the 52D Air Defense Artillery Brigade, was the first in...
Katterbach Kaserne originated as a Luftwaffe airfield in the 1930s, constructed by Nazi Germany for military aviation. Its initial mission centered on supporting German air operations, and it served as a base for fighter and bomber units during World War II.
The airfield’s infrastructure expanded significantly to handle increased wartime activity. Heavy use during the war led to the development of additional facilities and runways to support ongoing missions.
After World War II, U.S. forces assumed control of the site in 1945. The installation was renamed Katterbach Kaserne and adapted to support the U.S. Army’s presence in Germany, marking a shift in its strategic role.
During the Cold War, the base became a central hub for Army aviation units, including attack helicopter battalions and support elements. New hangars and facilities were constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting the base’s growing importance in NATO’s defense strategy.
Throughout its history, Katterbach Kaserne has hosted several significant units, such as the 1st Infantry Division and the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade. The base played a vital role in maintaining readiness during periods of heightened tension, including the Berlin Crisis and the Gulf War.
Its aviation assets provided rapid response capabilities across Europe. These capabilities supported U.S. and allied operations during critical moments in European security history.
Today, Katterbach Kaserne remains an active U.S. Army installation and serves as the headquarters for the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade. The base supports ongoing training, logistics, and partnership missions with NATO allies.
Katterbach Kaserne continues to be a strategic asset for U.S. and allied operations in Europe. There have been no significant official name changes since its designation as Katterbach Kaserne after World War II.
Major Units & Training Programs
ANSBACH, Germany (December 21, 2023) - U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Religious Support Office kicked off the Awana program after more than a five-year pause for the garrison earlier this year on Katterbach Kaserne. The older children who are in the Truth & Training group go over their workbooks and...
Major Units
12th Combat Aviation Brigade
Provides aviation support including attack, reconnaissance, and air assault capabilities to U.S. Army Europe and Africa. The brigade enhances operational reach and flexibility for ground forces across the theater.
5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment
Delivers air and missile defense coverage for U.S. and allied forces in Europe, protecting critical assets from aerial threats. The battalion is equipped with advanced air defense systems and supports NATO operations.
Training Schools
Aviation Unit Maintenance Training
Overview
Provides advanced technical instruction for aviation maintainers, focusing on the upkeep and repair of helicopters and related equipment. Training ensures readiness and safety for aviation operations.
Course Length
Varies (typically 2-8 weeks)
Who Attends
Aviation maintenance personnel assigned to tenant units
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to Katterbach Kaserne! Arriving at a new base can be a busy time, but being well-prepared helps ensure a smooth start. Review the steps below to make your check-in at Katterbach Kaserne efficient and stress-free. For more details, visit the official Katterbach Kaserne website.
The main entrance to Katterbach Kaserne is the Katterbach Main Gate, which is the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized individuals. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID at the gate. If you use a state-issued driver's license, it must meet REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant IDs are not accepted for base access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of heightened security measures. If family members or visitors need access, they must be sponsored by an authorized ID holder and obtain a visitor pass at the Visitor Control Center. Always allow extra time during your first arrival or when bringing guests.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member ID Cards
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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 and Dental Records
Katterbach Kaserne offers a robust sponsor program to assist new arrivals. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or submit a request through your unit's administrative office. If unsure, reach out to the base's Relocation Office for guidance. Your sponsor will help coordinate your arrival and answer questions about the community.
Formal in-processing for Katterbach Kaserne takes place at the Welcome Center, located in Building 5817 near the main installation area. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0800–1630. During in-processing, you will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete initial steps within 2–3 business days, though some requirements (such as housing or medical appointments) may extend the timeline.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Katterbach Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0700–1700, and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsoring non-ID cardholders. Bring valid photo identification and be prepared for background screening.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
During the summer surge of Permanent-Change-of-Station moves for Army families, installations like Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, offer PCS Open House events where Soldiers and families can obtain information on programs and services. Army leadership is committed to improving Quality of Life for Soldiers in the areas of Housing, PCS Moves, Child and Youth Programs, and Spouse Employment. (U.S. Army Photo)
When you receive PCS orders to Katterbach Kaserne, your first step is to review your orders and contact your local Transportation Office. They will help you set up your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which is the DoD’s online platform for scheduling Household Goods (HHG) shipments or Personally Procured Moves (PPM/DITY). Use DPS to track your move and communicate with your moving company.
Most service members choose a government-arranged HHG shipment, but you can also opt for a PPM if you want more control and possibly extra reimbursement. Make sure you understand your weight allowances and keep all receipts if you choose PPM.
You are eligible for entitlements such as Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to offset hotel costs while house-hunting, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation expenses. Be sure to keep receipts and submit claims promptly. For more details, check the official DoD travel site and speak with your Transportation Office for base-specific guidance.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local guidance.
- Keep orders, passports, and medical records with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance before scheduling your move.
- Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.
- Label boxes clearly with room and contents.
- Plan pet travel and paperwork well in advance.
- Monitor DPS for updates and communicate with your moving company.
Important Forms & Links
Start, track, and manage your PCS move online.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and per diem.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS journey.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) amount.