NSA Washington
NSA Washington PCS Guide
Military Base History
190604-N-YB753-0065 WASHINGTON (June 4, 2019) Retired Area Fire Marshal William “Bill” Hennessey Sr., a native of Waterford, Connecticut, speaks to attendees after being inducted into the Navy F&ES Hall of Fame at the Cold War Museum on board the Washington Navy Yard, D.C., June 4....
Naval Support Activity (NSA) Washington began in the early 20th century, when the U.S. Navy needed a central hub for support in the nation’s capital. The installation provided critical infrastructure and services for Navy operations in Washington, D.C.
NSA Washington supported both fleet and shore commands, ensuring smooth administrative and logistical functions. The base quickly became essential for Navy activities in the region.
During World War II, NSA Washington played a vital role in coordinating naval logistics, communications, and personnel management. The base expanded rapidly, adding new facilities to meet the surge in military activity.
Key units, including administrative headquarters and support detachments, were stationed at NSA Washington. This ensured efficient wartime operations and helped the Navy respond to evolving demands.
Throughout the Cold War, NSA Washington evolved to serve as a nerve center for Navy administration and support. The installation adapted to changing defense needs, hosting a range of tenant commands.
NSA Washington provided essential services to both military and civilian personnel. The base’s flexibility supported ongoing Navy missions during periods of global tension.
Today, NSA Washington serves as the headquarters for Navy District Washington and supports numerous commands, including the Chief of Naval Operations. The base remains a cornerstone of Navy operations in the capital region.
NSA Washington offers administrative, logistical, and ceremonial support. The installation has consistently operated under the NSA Washington designation, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
Patches, including one showing his Navy rating badge and rank, adorn the motorcycle vest of Fire Department Battalion Chief John “Johnny Mac” McDonald during his memorial service. McDonald served as vice president of the Northern Virginia chapter of the Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club, which...
Major Units
Naval District Washington (NDW) Headquarters
Serves as the regional command for the National Capital Region, providing command and control, installation support, and operational oversight for Navy activities in the area.
U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard
Performs ceremonial duties in the National Capital Region, including funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, official ceremonies at the White House and Pentagon, and other high-visibility events.
Naval Support Activity Washington (NSA Washington) Command
Provides base operations support, security, and services to tenant commands and visiting naval units in the Washington, D.C. area.
Training Schools
U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Training
Overview
Prepares sailors for ceremonial duties, including precision drill, uniform standards, and protocol for high-visibility events and funerals.
Course Length
8 weeks
Who Attends
Newly assigned sailors to the Ceremonial Guard
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NSA Washington! Arriving at a new base can be a big step for you and your family. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process will help you start smoothly. For more details, visit the official NSA Washington website.
NSA Washington's main gate is known as the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) Main Gate. It is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved federal ID. State driver's licenses must meet REAL ID Act requirements. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's strong security posture. For family members or visitors, you must request a visitor pass in advance. The sponsor must be present or submit required paperwork to the Visitor Control Center. Always allow extra time for security procedures, especially during peak hours.
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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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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
NSA Washington offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or command. They will assign a sponsor who can answer questions, provide local information, and assist with your in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the NSA Washington Welcome Center, located near the main entrance. Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. Key steps include checking in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most personnel complete in-processing within 2-3 business days, depending on requirements and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the NSA Washington Main Gate. It is open Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and processes sponsorship paperwork for family members and official visitors. Bring valid photo ID and required documents for all guests.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A moving crew packs up a family's belongings as they prepare to move from Fort Leavenworth. (U.S. Army photo by Jeff Hollaway)
NSA Washington welcomes new arrivals with a streamlined PCS process. Start by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office to discuss your move options. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Both options require you to use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment.
You're entitled to key benefits during your move. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) covers up to 10 days of hotel costs while you search for housing. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset miscellaneous moving expenses. NSA Washington is located in the heart of the National Capital Region, so plan early for traffic and lodging. Check with the base Transportation Office for local moving guidance and to avoid common pitfalls in the D.C. area.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as you receive orders; D.C. fills quickly.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Double-check weight allowances to avoid excess costs.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of high-value items for claims.
- Plan for pets; some hotels and rentals have restrictions.
- Schedule HHG pickup and delivery dates early to secure your preferred timeline.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find current per diem rates and travel entitlements.
Get PCS checklists, planning tools, and support.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Base-specific information for incoming personnel.