MCB Camp Butler
MCB Camp Butler PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Volunteers with the Camp Hanson USO pose for a photo during the 2025 Volunteer Recognition Ceremony at the Camp Butler Officer’s Club on Plaza Housing, Okinawa, Japan, April 18, 2025. Marine Corps Community Services Okinawa hosts this event to honor volunteers who have dedicated their time and...
Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Butler serves as the headquarters for all Marine Corps installations in Okinawa, Japan. Established after World War II, the base’s original mission was to support U.S. occupation forces and provide a strategic presence in the Western Pacific. Its location enabled the U.S. military to project power and maintain stability in the region during the early Cold War era.
Camp Butler expanded rapidly in the 1950s and 1960s as tensions increased in Asia. The base became a hub for logistics, training, and support for Marine units deployed to Korea and Vietnam. Over time, it absorbed several camps and facilities across Okinawa, creating a complex network of installations under a single command structure.
Major units stationed at Camp Butler have included the III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) and Marine Corps Installations Pacific. These units play a vital role in regional security, disaster response, and joint training with Japanese and allied forces. Camp Butler has also hosted rotational deployments and supported humanitarian missions throughout the Asia-Pacific.
The base was originally known as "Marine Corps Base, Okinawa" until its official renaming in 1976 as "Marine Corps Base Camp Smedley D. Butler," honoring a distinguished Marine Corps general. Today, Camp Butler remains a cornerstone of the U.S.-Japan alliance, supporting operational readiness and community engagement on Okinawa.
Namesake
Butler was known for his leadership and outspoken views on military policy. After retiring, he became a prominent critic of U.S. military interventions. His legacy endures as a symbol of Marine Corps valor and integrity.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Kevin Dolino, a training clerk with S-3, Training, Plans, and Operations, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, records the height of Cpl. Osvaldo Hernandez, a postal clerk with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Postal, during a height/weight measurement on Camp Foster, Okinawa,...
Major Units
III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF)
III MEF is the principal Marine Air-Ground Task Force in the Pacific, responsible for forward-deployed crisis response, combat operations, and humanitarian assistance in the Indo-Pacific region.
3rd Marine Division
The 3rd Marine Division provides ground combat forces for III MEF, specializing in amphibious and expeditionary warfare to support regional security and contingency operations.
1st Marine Aircraft Wing
1st MAW delivers aviation support, including assault support, air reconnaissance, and offensive air support for III MEF and allied operations in the Pacific.
3rd Marine Logistics Group
3rd MLG supplies combat logistics, engineering, and sustainment capabilities to support III MEF operations throughout the Indo-Pacific.
Training Schools
Jungle Warfare Training Center (JWTC)
Overview
JWTC provides specialized training in jungle survival, navigation, and combat tactics for Marines and joint forces operating in dense, tropical environments.
Course Length
3-4 weeks
Who Attends
Marines, joint service members, and allied military personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
SOFA Members show off prizes they won at the annual Foster Fest on Marine Corps Base Camp Foster July 2, 2023. “It’s just really nice to see the American people and the Japanese people come out and have a good time.” Marine Corps Community Services hosted this open gate event for everyone...
Welcome to MCB Camp Butler! Arriving at a new duty station can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process will make your transition much smoother. Take a moment to review these steps and requirements before your arrival for a seamless experience. For more details, visit the official MCB Camp Butler website.
MCB Camp Butler features several main access points, with the Camp Foster Gate and Camp Lester Gate among the most commonly used. The Camp Foster Gate operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential at entry. If using a state driver’s license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for base access. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates, and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center just outside the main gate to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present and provide proper identification for their 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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Passports/Visa documents (for overseas assignments)
MCB Camp Butler offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in quickly. Request a sponsor through your gaining unit’s administrative office or by contacting the Relocation Assistance Program. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and help coordinate your arrival.
Formal in-processing for MCB Camp Butler takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 5699, located near the Camp Foster Main Gate. The center operates Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. Key steps include checking in with Personnel Administration, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific requirements and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Camp Foster Main Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 0700–1700, and offers services such as issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Arrive early to avoid peak wait times and ensure a smooth entry for your guests.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A Fort Bragg family prepares for their permanent change of station move, April 25. PCS season is in full swing and families across the installation are preparing to move to their new duty stations.
Arriving at MCB Camp Butler requires careful planning. First, review your official orders and contact the base Transportation Office to discuss your move options. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment arranged by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move. Each move type has different requirements and reimbursement options, so weigh your needs and timeline carefully. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at Move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. DPS is the central hub for managing your move paperwork and communication with your moving company. Keep your login info handy and check for updates often.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS orders and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Take photos or videos of your belongings before packing.
- Label all boxes with your name and destination address.
- Plan for pet travel and quarantine requirements if applicable.
- Contact the Camp Butler Housing Office early for availability and wait times.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for DLA, TLE, and per diem.
Guidance, checklists, and expert support for PCS moves.
Estimate your DLA entitlement.
Base-specific arrival and relocation information.
Schools & Childcare
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The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for navigating school enrollment, transitions, and special education needs. The SLO helps families connect with DoDEA schools, provides guidance on local policies, and supports students’ educational success. Contact the SLO through the Camp Butler Marine & Family Programs office for personalized assistance.
On-Base Schools
Bechtel Elementary School
Bechtel Elementary is a DoDEA school serving grades K-5 for families living on or near Camp Foster, a part of the Camp Butler complex. The school offers a U.S.-based curriculum and a supportive learning environment for military children.
Kadena Middle School
Kadena Middle School is a DoDEA school located near Kadena Air Base, within the Camp Butler area. It serves students in grades 6-8 and is known for strong academics and extracurricular programs.
Kubasaki High School
Kubasaki High School is a DoDEA high school on Camp Foster, part of the Camp Butler complex. It offers a full U.S. high school curriculum, AP courses, and a variety of clubs and athletics.
Childcare Options
Camp Foster Child Development Center (CDC)
The Camp Foster CDC provides full-day and part-day care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. It is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Camp Foster School Age Care (SAC) Program
This program offers before- and after-school care, as well as summer camps and holiday camps. Activities support learning and social development for school-age children.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer in-home care on base, with flexible hours and small group settings. All providers are certified and monitored for quality and safety.
Local Schools
Okinawa City Board of Education
Japanese public schools are highly regarded for academic rigor and discipline, but instruction is in Japanese. Most U.S. military families opt for DoDEA schools due to language and curriculum differences.
Okinawa Christian School International
This private, English-language school offers an American-style curriculum from preschool through grade 12. It is known for small class sizes and a supportive community.
Hope International Academy Okinawa
Hope International Academy is an English-language Christian school serving K-12. It focuses on individualized learning and a global perspective. The school is popular among international families.