Puget Sound Naval Shipyard
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Puget Sound Naval Shipyard was established in 1891 as a key shipbuilding and repair facility for the U.S. Navy on the West Coast. Its original mission focused on constructing, maintaining, and modernizing naval vessels to support the growing Pacific Fleet.
The shipyard's strategic location in Bremerton, Washington allowed it to play a vital role in U.S. maritime operations from its earliest days. Its proximity to the Pacific made it essential for fleet readiness and rapid response.
Major expansions occurred during World War I and World War II, as the shipyard ramped up production and repair capabilities to meet wartime demands. During World War II, the facility became one of the nation's busiest naval shipyards, repairing battle-damaged ships and converting vessels for new missions.
The shipyard's workforce swelled and its infrastructure expanded with new dry docks and specialized shops. This growth enabled the facility to handle a greater volume and variety of naval vessels during critical periods.
Throughout the Cold War, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard adapted to changing naval technology. The yard focused on the overhaul and maintenance of nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers.
It became a center for nuclear ship recycling and decommissioning, reflecting its evolving technical expertise. This shift positioned the shipyard as a leader in handling complex, modern naval assets.
Today, the shipyard operates as Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility, supporting the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet with maintenance, modernization, and decommissioning services.
It remains a major employer in the region and a critical asset for national defense. The installation has retained its original name, with the current official designation reflecting its expanded mission and capabilities.
Major Units & Training Programs
Angelica Mendoza, a Puget Sound Naval Shipyard contractor, from Manila, Philippines, organizes supplies in the hangar bay aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), while in-port Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Washington, May 7, 2025. Ronald Reagan is undergoing scheduled...
Major Units
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF)
Provides maintenance, modernization, and repair for the U.S. Navy’s ships and submarines, supporting fleet readiness and operational capability.
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Detachment, Puget Sound
Oversees engineering, logistics, and technical support for shipyard operations, ensuring the effective completion of maintenance and modernization projects.
Submarine Squadron 19 (SUBRON 19) Detachment
Coordinates the maintenance and operational readiness of assigned submarines undergoing overhaul and repair at the shipyard.
Training Schools
Apprenticeship and Training Department (PSNS & IMF)
Overview
Provides technical and trade skill training for civilian shipyard workers in areas such as welding, pipefitting, and electrical work.
Course Length
Varies (typically 4 years for full apprenticeship)
Who Attends
Civilian employees and new hires at the shipyard
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Arriving prepared will help you navigate base access and check-in smoothly. Review the following steps to ensure a seamless transition for you and your family. For more details, visit the official Puget Sound Naval Shipyard website.
The main entrance to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard is the Charleston Gate, located near the primary base area. This gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All personnel and drivers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID for entry. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require secondary identification. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. To bring visitors or family members, you must obtain a visitor pass in advance. Sponsors should accompany guests to the Visitor Control Center for processing. Be prepared for brief delays during peak hours and heightened security periods.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Spouse ID Cards
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Marriage Certificate
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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
You can request a sponsor through your gaining unit or command at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Contact your command's administration office or use the Navy's online sponsorship request form if available. Your sponsor will help coordinate your arrival, answer questions, and assist with in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Fleet & Family Support Center, typically located near the main administrative area. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical/Dental, and gaining unit orientation. Plan for in-processing to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific requirements and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Charleston Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during high-traffic periods.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
The first step in the move out process is letting Campbell Crossing staff know of the impending move as soon as possible and filling out a notice to vacate form, said Karsten Haake, Lendlease project director for the Campbell Crossing community. Campbell Crossing is preparing for a 20-30% spike in turnover as permanent change of station, or PCS, season begins.
Receiving PCS orders to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard? Start by reviewing your orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. You’ll need to set up your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which manages all military household goods shipments. Early action helps secure preferred move dates and reduces stress. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may earn reimbursement. Each option has pros and cons, so review details in DPS before deciding. You’re entitled to key PCS benefits. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps offset hotel costs while you search for housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) assists with moving-related expenses. Be sure to keep all receipts and understand your weight allowance to avoid out-of-pocket costs. Puget Sound Naval Shipyard sees high traffic in summer, so book early and stay in touch with your Transportation Office for updates. Local resources and base-specific checklists can help you prepare for the unique climate and housing market in the Bremerton area.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help navigate local resources.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes with your name and new address for easier delivery.
- Take photos or videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Plan pet travel and lodging well in advance—local kennels fill up fast.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as you receive orders, especially for summer moves.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Official rates and allowance information including DLA and TLE.
Guidance, checklists, and support for every step of your PCS.
Base-specific info for arriving personnel.