Rock Island Arsenal
Rock Island Arsenal PCS Guide
Military Base History
Rob Thompson, a machinist apprentice at the Rock Island Arsenal-Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center, stands inside historic Building 220 with a piece of metal, explaining how he will transform it into parts for the M1A1 Abrams tank. The Abrams is a full-tracked, low-profile, land combat...
Rock Island Arsenal was established in 1862 on the Mississippi River in Illinois to serve as a Union Army ordnance manufacturing and storage site during the Civil War. Its location leveraged river transport and existing military infrastructure, including the earlier Fort Armstrong.
The arsenal's original mission focused on producing and repairing military equipment, a role that expanded rapidly as the U.S. military grew. Over time, its responsibilities broadened to meet increasing national defense needs.
Major construction phases took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adding large stone workshops and foundries. The arsenal became a hub for the production of small arms, artillery, and military vehicles.
During both World Wars, Rock Island Arsenal played a critical role in supplying U.S. and Allied forces. Production ramped up significantly, and thousands of civilian workers were employed to meet wartime demands.
Key units, such as the Army Sustainment Command and Joint Munitions Command, have been headquartered at Rock Island Arsenal. This reflects the site's ongoing logistical importance to the U.S. military.
Throughout the Cold War, the arsenal adapted to changing military needs by focusing on advanced weapons systems and supporting overseas operations. It also became a center for research and development in military logistics and manufacturing technologies.
No major official name changes have occurred; it has been known as Rock Island Arsenal since its founding. The continuity of its name underscores its longstanding role in national defense.
Today, Rock Island Arsenal remains the largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the United States. It provides critical support for Army readiness, including logistics, engineering, and munitions management.
The base is a major local employer and a key part of the Quad Cities community. It supports both national defense and regional economic stability through its ongoing operations.
Major Units & Training Programs
Dr. (Lt. Col.) Kimberley Phillips, U.S. Army Sustainment Command’s command surgeon, conducts a staff meeting March 6 at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois. From left, Capt. Timothy Johnson, ASC environmental science and engineering officer; Sgt. 1st Class Fidel Distel, noncommissioned officer in...
Major Units
U.S. Army Sustainment Command (ASC)
Provides logistics and sustainment support to Army units worldwide, ensuring operational readiness through supply, maintenance, and distribution services.
First U.S. Army
Responsible for training, mobilization, and deployment support for Reserve and National Guard units, ensuring their readiness for operational missions.
Joint Munitions Command (JMC)
Manages the production, storage, and distribution of conventional ammunition for all U.S. military services, ensuring munitions readiness across the force.
Arrival & In-Processing
Mike Davis is the fifth direct descendant in his family to be employed by Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. His second great-grandfather, William Channon, was the Arsenal's first government civilian employee, entering the gates in 1863 as a builder and carpenter. Davis and his wife, Ruth Ann,...
Welcome to Rock Island Arsenal! Arriving at a new installation is exciting, but being prepared helps make your check-in smooth and stress-free. Review all requirements before your arrival to avoid delays. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Rock Island Arsenal website.
Rock Island Arsenal's main access point is the Moline Gate, located on Rodman Avenue. This gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved visitor pass. Under the REAL ID Act, state driver's licenses must be compliant for base access—check your state's status before arrival. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security is strict; allow extra time during peak hours. To bring family or visitors, stop at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass. Sponsors must be present for non-DoD 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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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Rock Island Arsenal offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the installation's Sponsorship Coordinator to request a sponsor. Sponsors provide local guidance, answer questions, and help with in-processing. For more details, check the Sponsorship section on the official Rock Island Arsenal website.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 56, located near the main gate. In-processing hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for 2-3 business days to complete all steps. Bring all required documents and arrive early to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Moline Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers DBIDS cards, and assists with guest sponsorship. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied by their sponsor for initial access.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Stewart, a U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and one of the first Soldiers to conduct a Permanent Change of Station, known as PCS, to Poland, stands inside his apartment shortly after moving in as a tenant, Poznan, Poland, Feb. 7, 2023.
When you receive PCS orders to Rock Island Arsenal, start by reviewing your orders and setting up your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is your main tool for scheduling, tracking, and managing your move. Contact the Transportation Office as soon as possible to discuss your options and get guidance on required paperwork. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where a moving company packs and ships your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY), where you move yourself and may receive reimbursement. You can also combine these move types if needed.
You are eligible for key entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover the cost of temporary lodging during your move, while DLA offsets miscellaneous moving expenses. Make sure you understand the documentation needed to claim these benefits. Rock Island Arsenal is a unique joint installation, so coordinate early with your gaining unit and sponsor to address any base-specific requirements. Check the Rock Island Arsenal website for in-processing details and local policies.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor through your gaining unit as soon as possible.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Contact the Transportation Office early to secure your preferred move dates.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Label boxes with room destinations for smoother unpacking.
- Book temporary lodging on or near Rock Island Arsenal well in advance, especially during summer.
Important Forms & Links
Start, track, and manage your move online.
Official DoD rates and allowances for PCS moves.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS.
Base-specific in-processing and arrival information.