MCAGCC Twentynine Palms
MCAGCC Twentynine Palms PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Jason Lintz, a Michigan native, service level training instructor with Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group, Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, top center, provides instruction to Marines with 3rd Littoral...
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) Twentynine Palms began as a World War II training site for Army glider pilots in 1942. After the war, the military transferred the site to the Navy and then to the Marine Corps in 1952, reflecting the need for a large, remote training area.
The original mission focused on live-fire and combined-arms exercises, taking advantage of the vast Mojave Desert terrain. This unique environment allowed Marines to train in realistic and challenging conditions.
Major expansions occurred in the 1950s and 1970s as the Marine Corps developed the base into its premier combined-arms training facility. The base grew to over 998 square miles, making it the largest Marine Corps base in the world.
Key construction included ranges, airfields, and support infrastructure to accommodate evolving training needs. These improvements ensured the base could support increasingly complex exercises and larger numbers of personnel.
Significant units have called MCAGCC home, including the Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command (MAGTFTC) and elements of the 1st Marine Division and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The base has hosted large-scale exercises such as CAX (Combined Arms Exercise) and ITX (Integrated Training Exercise).
These exercises prepare Marines for deployments worldwide, ensuring they are ready for a variety of missions. The base’s resources and location make it ideal for realistic training scenarios.
During the Cold War and post-9/11 era, MCAGCC played a vital role in preparing Marines for conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Its unique training environment simulates harsh, real-world conditions.
Today, the base remains essential for Marine Corps readiness, supporting joint and multinational exercises. It also contributes significantly to the local economy through jobs and community partnerships.
Name changes reflect the base’s evolving mission. The installation was originally known as the "Navy Auxiliary Air Station Twentynine Palms" before becoming the "Marine Corps Training Center Twentynine Palms" in 1952.
In 1978, the base was officially designated as "Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms", highlighting its expanded mission and scope.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marine Corps students with Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School, Training Command, Training and Education Command, run during unit physical training at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 1, 2025. Physical training helps Marines build the...
Major Units
Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command (MAGTFTC)
MAGTFTC is responsible for providing advanced, combined arms, live-fire training for Marine units, ensuring combat readiness for deployment. It manages major exercises such as Integrated Training Exercise (ITX) and supports Marine Corps operational doctrine development.
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) Headquarters Battalion
This battalion provides command and control, administrative, logistical, and security support for all units stationed at MCAGCC, enabling effective base operations and mission execution.
7th Marine Regiment (Reinforced)
The 7th Marines serve as a key infantry regiment, conducting ground combat operations and supporting Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) missions during training and deployments.
Training Schools
Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG)
Overview
MCTOG provides advanced training for Marine officers and staff in the planning and execution of ground combat operations, focusing on tactics, command and control, and operational planning.
Course Length
6-8 weeks
Who Attends
Marine officers and staff, primarily from battalions and regiments
Arrival & In-Processing
A competitor drives through the gate for the King of the Hammers, Every Man Challenge, at the Johnson Valley Shared Use Area, Twentynine Palms, California, Feb. 7, 2025. Approximately 53,000 acres of Johnson Valley are shared with the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center for military use, and...
Welcome to MCAGCC Twentynine Palms! Arriving at a new base is an important step in your military journey. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. For more details, visit the official MCAGCC Twentynine Palms website.
The main entrance to MCAGCC Twentynine Palms is the Condor Gate, which is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. The Ocotillo Gate provides additional access during peak hours, but confirm current schedules before arrival. All vehicles and occupants must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved visitor pass at the gate. If using a state-issued driver's license, ensure it is REAL ID Act compliant. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections to maintain base security. Family members and visitors must obtain a temporary pass, which requires valid photo ID and may include a background check. Plan extra time for security procedures, especially during high-traffic periods or if bringing guests.
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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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Housing Assignment or Application
MCAGCC Twentynine Palms offers a sponsor program to help you settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office as soon as you receive orders. They will assign a sponsor who can answer questions and assist with your arrival.
Report to the Welcome Center (Building 1407) for in-processing. The center operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include checking in with Personnel Administration, Finance, Housing, and Medical. You may also meet with your unit representative. Most in-processing tasks are completed within 2-3 business days, depending on your schedule and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Condor Gate. It is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Saturday/Sunday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and processes sponsorship requests for non-military visitors. Bring valid photo ID and allow time for background checks.
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 MCAGCC Twentynine Palms starts with receiving official orders and promptly contacting your local Transportation Office to coordinate your move. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment—where movers pack and transport your belongings—or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), which lets you move items yourself for possible reimbursement. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at Move.mil is your central hub for scheduling, tracking, and managing your move; register early to avoid delays.
You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days while securing housing, plus a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset relocation costs. Be sure to keep all receipts and documentation for lodging and travel. MCAGCC’s remote desert location means planning ahead is key—housing can be limited, and summer heat is intense. Check base-specific resources and reach out to your sponsor for local insights.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to get local insights and support.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as orders arrive—on-base spaces fill fast.
- Keep all important documents (orders, IDs, receipts) with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of valuable items before pack-out.
- Plan for desert climate—pack essentials for heat and limited shade.
- Contact the housing office ahead of arrival to discuss wait times and options.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Official DoD site for per diem, TLE, and DLA rates.
Guides and tools for every stage of your move.
Base-specific arrival information, contacts, and local tips.