MCB Hawaii
MCB Hawaii PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCB Hawaii) began as a strategic airfield and naval installation. The U.S. military established it in 1918 as the Kuwaaohe Military Reservation to defend Oahu and support Pacific operations.
The location on the Mokapu Peninsula offered a natural harbor and proximity to key shipping lanes. This made the base vital for regional security and military logistics in the Pacific.
During World War II, the base expanded rapidly. The Navy built new runways, hangars, and support facilities, transforming it into Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay.
The installation played a critical role in anti-submarine patrols and served as a training site for pilots and Marines. It was attacked during the Pearl Harbor raid on December 7, 1941, suffering damage and casualties.
After the war, the base continued to evolve. In 1952, the Marine Corps assumed control and renamed it Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay.
The base supported Cold War operations, hosting aviation units and serving as a hub for Pacific deployments. In 1994, it became Marine Corps Base Hawaii, reflecting its broader mission and consolidation of Marine Corps activities on Oahu.
Today, MCB Hawaii is home to several key units:
- 3rd Marine Regiment
- Marine Aircraft Group 24
- Combat Logistics Battalion 3
The base serves as a key training, deployment, and support center for Marine forces in the Indo-Pacific. It also partners with local communities and supports environmental stewardship on the peninsula.
Its strategic location continues to make it a cornerstone of U.S. defense in the Pacific region.
Major Units & Training Programs
The 39th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric M. Smith, awards Cpl. Madison Franklin, a motor transportation operator with the Marines of 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 12, 2024. General Smith visited MCB Hawaii to...
Major Units
3rd Marine Regiment (now redesignated as 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment)
Serves as a forward-deployed Marine infantry regiment, providing rapid-response capability and supporting Indo-Pacific security operations. The Littoral Regiment is tailored for expeditionary advanced base operations in the Pacific theater.
Marine Aircraft Group 24 (MAG-24)
Provides aviation combat support with helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft for Marine Corps operations throughout the Pacific region. MAG-24 enhances mobility, assault support, and logistical sustainment for Marine forces.
Combat Logistics Battalion 3 (CLB-3)
Delivers logistics support including transportation, supply, and maintenance to Marine Corps units operating in the Pacific, enabling sustained expeditionary operations.
Training Schools
Jungle Warfare Training Detachment (JWTD)
Overview
Provides specialized jungle warfare and survival training tailored for operations in tropical environments, focusing on small unit tactics, navigation, and survival skills.
Course Length
1-2 weeks
Who Attends
Marine units preparing for operations or deployments in jungle environments
Arrival & In-Processing
The “Marine Corps Base Hawaii Kaneohe Bay” sign sits in building 204 prior to being returned to the Mokapu Gate aboard Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Sept. 10, 2015. The Marines removed the lime and calcium that has collected over time on the “Marine Corps Base Hawaii Kaneohe Bay” sign...
Welcome to MCB Hawaii! Arriving at a new duty station is exciting, but being well-prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Review these steps before you travel to make your check-in process fast and stress-free. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official MCB Hawaii website.
MCB Hawaii's main entrance is the H-3/Kaneohe Bay Gate, which operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. The Back Gate (Mokapu Gate) typically opens weekdays from 0500–2100. Always carry a valid Military ID or CAC for entry. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary approved form. All vehicles are subject to random inspections and 100% ID checks at all gates. The base maintains a high security posture; expect delays during FPCON escalations. For visitors or family members without DoD credentials, obtain a temporary pass by stopping at the Visitor Control Center before entering the main gate. Sponsors must be present or submit pre-approval forms.
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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
MCB Hawaii offers a robust sponsor program to help you settle in quickly. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit or through your Service's Sponsorship Coordinator. If you have not received sponsor contact information, reach out to your unit’s administrative office or check the base website for guidance.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Bldg 1043, near the main gate area. Operating hours are Monday–Friday, 0730–1630. Key steps include Personnel Administration, Finance, Housing, Medical/Dental check-in, and Unit Reception. Plan for 2–3 days to complete all required stations, depending on your arrival time and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the H-3/Kaneohe Bay Main Gate. It operates Monday–Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturday, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and processes guest sponsorships. All visitors must present valid government-issued photo ID and may be subject to background checks.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Staff Sergeant Cornel Varnado Jr., 194th Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, signs for packages May 9 as workers from River City Movers conduct a direct delivery to his home May 9 at Fort Campbell. Varnado was recently reassigned from Germany to Fort Campbell and elected to carry out a government move to transport his Family’s belongings from overseas.
When you receive PCS orders to Marine Corps Base Hawaii, act quickly to review your orders and contact the Base Transportation Office. Early action helps secure your preferred move dates and ensures a smoother transition. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the military arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Both options require registration and tracking in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), the online portal for all official moves. Use DPS to schedule, manage, and track your shipment; it’s essential for communication with your transportation office and moving companies. Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset costs during your move. TLE covers hotel stays while you search for housing, and DLA helps with unexpected relocation costs. Understanding these benefits and keeping all receipts will maximize your reimbursements. MCB Hawaii’s remote location means early planning is crucial. Shipping times can be longer due to the distance from the mainland, so coordinate with the transportation office and monitor your shipment status often. Visit official resources for the latest guidance and support throughout your move.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and housing.
- Book TLF or lodging as soon as you receive orders—Hawaii fills up fast.
- Monitor shipment status in DPS, especially for HHG sent by sea.
- Hand-carry important documents, including orders and medical records.
- Plan for pets—Hawaii has strict quarantine and entry requirements.
- Label boxes with your name, contact info, and destination address.
- Review your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule, manage, and track your PCS move online.
Check current per diem rates and travel entitlements.
Guidance, checklists, and support for every step of your move.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for your PCS move.
Official guide for arriving at MCB Hawaii.
Schools & Childcare
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Military families at MCB Hawaii rely on nearby public schools, as there are no DoDEA schools located on base. Most children attend schools within the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) Windward District, which serves the Kane'ohe area. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your key resource for navigating enrollment, understanding local school options, and connecting with special education or transition support. Contact the SLO early to get personalized guidance and up-to-date information on schools and programs.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and prioritizes military families.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers in-home care by certified providers on or near base. Flexible hours and small group settings support working parents. The program meets DoD standards for safety and learning.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
SAC delivers before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. The program is nationally accredited and supports academic and social growth.
Local Schools
Hawaii Department of Education (Windward District)
The Windward District offers a range of schools with diverse programs. Many schools are praised for their supportive staff and community feel. State report cards show steady performance, and families often note strong extracurricular activities and a welcoming atmosphere.
Aikahi Elementary School
Aikahi Elementary earns high marks for its STEM focus and supportive teachers. GreatSchools.org rates it above average for test scores and student progress.
Kalaheo High School
Kalaheo High offers robust AP and arts programs. The school is known for its inclusive culture and college prep support. GreatSchools.org notes solid academic growth and extracurricular options.