MCLB Barstow
MCLB Barstow PCS Guide
Military Base History
Colonel Russell Savatt, base commanding officer, Colonel Kirk Spangenberg, commanding officer of Marine Depot Maintenance Command, and Sergeant Major Miller Daceus, base sergeant major, welcomed General Christopher Mahoney, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, for a tour of MDMC Production...
Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) Barstow was established in 1942 to support the U.S. military’s growing logistical needs during World War II. The base’s original mission focused on supply, maintenance, and repair of military vehicles and equipment.
Its strategic location along major rail and highway routes in Southern California made it a critical inland depot. This positioning enabled efficient movement of supplies and equipment to support military operations.
During the Cold War, the base expanded significantly to meet new demands. New warehouses, maintenance facilities, and support infrastructure were constructed to serve a larger, more technologically advanced Marine Corps.
MCLB Barstow became a hub for the storage and distribution of prepositioned war materiel. This role allowed the base to support U.S. military operations worldwide by ensuring rapid access to essential equipment.
Over the decades, key units such as the Marine Corps Logistics Command and various maintenance battalions have been stationed at Barstow. The base played a vital role in supporting U.S. forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and operations in the Middle East.
Rapid equipment repair and resupply at MCLB Barstow ensured that deployed forces remained mission-ready. The base’s support was crucial during major conflicts and ongoing military operations.
Today, MCLB Barstow remains a cornerstone of Marine Corps logistics. It provides depot-level maintenance, storage, and distribution services for military equipment.
The base also supports local communities through employment opportunities and partnerships. MCLB Barstow has maintained its legacy as a vital logistics hub and has not undergone any significant official name changes since its establishment.
Major Units & Training Programs
Colonel Russell Savatt, base commanding officer, Colonel Kirk Spangenberg, commanding officer of Marine Depot Maintenance Command, and Sergeant Major Miller Daceus, base sergeant major, welcomed General Christopher Mahoney, assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, for a tour of MDMC Production...
Major Units
Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow Headquarters Battalion
Provides installation support, security, and essential services to all tenant units and personnel at MCLB Barstow. Ensures the base operates efficiently to support Marine Corps missions worldwide.
Marine Depot Maintenance Command, Production Plant Barstow
Responsible for depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul of tactical vehicles and ground equipment for the Marine Corps, ensuring operational readiness of critical assets.
Arrival & In-Processing
Corporal Noah Avila, S-6 communications, checks identification of a contractor entering the back gate of MCLB Barstow, Jan. 13. Avila was performing duty as Special Augmentation Force. Avila was named Marine of the Year for 2020, a repeat honor for him as he was also Marine of the Year for 2019.
Welcome to MCLB Barstow! Arriving at a new duty station is an important milestone for you and your family. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding base access procedures will help ensure a smooth transition. For more information, visit the official MCLB Barstow website.
MCLB Barstow's main entrance is the Nebo Main Gate, the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The Nebo Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized individuals. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved DoD credential at entry. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs may require additional documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's strong security posture. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the gate or Visitor Control Center to request a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present and provide proper identification for both themselves and 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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Housing Assignment or Lease Agreement (if applicable)
MCLB Barstow offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Relocation Assistance Office. Sponsors provide guidance on local resources, in-processing steps, and community integration. Reach out as soon as you receive your orders for the best support.
Report to the Welcome Center in Building 15 for formal in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730–1630, except federal holidays. Key steps include check-ins with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete in-processing within 2–3 business days, depending on your specific requirements and appointment availability.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Nebo Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must present valid identification, and sponsors must accompany their guests during registration.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Then-Pfc. Justin Enzenbacher, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky, places his pub Ludo into his car for a ride in April 2022. Taking steps to prepare for a long road trip associated with a permanent change of station can reduce stress during a PCS move. (Photo by Ethan Steinquest)
Arriving at MCLB Barstow starts with receiving official orders. Next, contact the Base Transportation Office to discuss your move options. Most service members use either a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move. Each has different requirements and reimbursement rules. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is your main online tool for scheduling and tracking your move. Set up your DPS account early at move.mil to start your shipment request and upload required documents. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover hotel costs while you secure housing. Most CONUS moves allow up to 10 days of TLE. You may also be eligible for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset relocation costs. Check your entitlements and make sure you keep receipts for all expenses. MCLB Barstow is in the Mojave Desert, so plan for hot, dry conditions and limited local housing. Contact your sponsor or the Relocation Assistance Program for local insights and help with off-base housing. Advance planning is key for a smooth transition.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all important documents, including orders, with you during travel.
- Take photos and videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Plan for extreme heat—arrange utilities and water service early.
- Contact base housing and the Relocation Office before arrival.
- If traveling with pets, confirm pet policies at temporary lodging in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Start, manage, and track your PCS move online.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guidance, checklists, and support for military moves.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Official base site for arrival information and contacts.