Schofield Barracks
Schofield Barracks PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Sgt. Garry Sutton, Schofield Barracks Branch food inspection sergeant, walks through an arch of crossed swords to officially become a member of the NCO Corps during an NCO Induction Ceremony, March 13, 2020, in the Richardson Theater on Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Public Healthy Activity – Hawaii...
Schofield Barracks was established in 1908 to provide a permanent home for U.S. Army forces in Hawaii. The base’s original mission focused on defending Pearl Harbor and the strategic approaches to Oahu, highlighting the Pacific’s growing importance in U.S. military planning.
The Army named the installation after Lieutenant General John M. Schofield, a former commanding general and Secretary of War. He advocated for military defenses in Hawaii, shaping the base’s early purpose and legacy.
Construction began in 1909, with the first troops arriving soon after. Over the next decades, Schofield Barracks expanded, adding barracks, training ranges, and support facilities to meet the Army’s growing needs.
By the 1930s, Schofield Barracks had become one of the largest Army posts in the United States. It supported the Hawaiian Division and later the 25th Infantry Division, known as the "Tropic Lightning."
During World War II, Schofield Barracks played a critical role as a staging and training area for Pacific operations. The base was on alert during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 and contributed troops to campaigns across the Pacific Theater.
In the Cold War era, Schofield remained a vital hub for U.S. military presence in the Pacific. The installation hosted joint exercises and supported rapid deployment forces, maintaining its strategic importance.
Today, Schofield Barracks continues to serve as the headquarters for the 25th Infantry Division and other key Army units. The base supports regional security, disaster response, and training missions, while also contributing to the local Hawaiian community through partnerships and economic impact.
The installation has retained its original name since its founding, with no significant official name changes throughout its history.
Namesake
After the war, Schofield became U.S. Secretary of War and later Commanding General of the Army. He advocated for the strategic importance of Hawaii, which influenced the decision to name the barracks in his honor.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Soldiers from the 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division train alongside Japan Ground Self-Defense during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 25-01 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Oct. 15, 2024. The Joint Pacific Multinational...
Major Units
25th Infantry Division
The 25th Infantry Division, known as "Tropic Lightning," provides rapid deployment, ground combat power, and support throughout the Indo-Pacific region. The division specializes in jungle, light infantry, and Stryker brigade operations.
8th Military Police Brigade
The 8th Military Police Brigade provides law enforcement, security, and force protection for U.S. Army Hawaii and supports military operations in the Pacific theater.
3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division
The 3rd Brigade Combat Team (Bronco Brigade) delivers versatile, deployable infantry forces for contingency operations and exercises throughout the Indo-Pacific.
Training Schools
Lightning Academy
Overview
Lightning Academy offers specialized training in air assault, jungle operations, and other advanced infantry skills to enhance soldier readiness in challenging environments.
Course Length
Varies by course (typically 1-3 weeks)
Who Attends
Active duty soldiers, primarily within the 25th Infantry Division and other U.S. Army Pacific units
Arrival & In-Processing
WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii – Installation access improvements start Friday, April 29, at Schofield Barracks' Lyman Gate and vehicle processing center.
Welcome to Schofield Barracks! Arriving at a new installation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and understanding base access procedures will make your transition much smoother. For the most current updates and resources, visit the official Schofield Barracks website.
Schofield Barracks' main entrance is the Lyman Gate, located on the east side of the installation. Lyman Gate operates 24/7 for all personnel. The Macomb Gate provides additional access but may have limited hours; check the base website for updates. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved credentials. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates, and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base's strong security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center outside Lyman Gate with valid photo ID and sponsor information.
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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
Schofield Barracks offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit or through the Army Career Tracker (ACT) Sponsorship Module. Your sponsor will provide guidance before and during your move.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 750, near the Lyman Gate for in-processing. The center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit Check-in. Plan for the process to take 2-3 days, depending on your needs and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Lyman Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with guest sponsorship. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied by a sponsor if required.
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 your PCS orders to Schofield Barracks, start by contacting your current installation’s Transportation Office. They’ll help you access the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), where you’ll schedule your move and track your shipment. Most service members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, managed by the government, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Schofield Barracks is located on Oahu, Hawaii, but is considered a CONUS installation for PCS purposes, so standard entitlements apply. You’re eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to help cover short-term housing costs, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset relocation expenses. Use DPS to manage your move, submit claims, and keep your orders and inventory organized. Check with the Schofield Barracks Transportation Office for local procedures, as some steps may differ from mainland moves.
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; on-base fills quickly.
- Hand-carry important documents, including orders, IDs, and medical records.
- Check Hawaii’s pet quarantine and import rules before moving pets.
- Understand your weight allowance for HHG shipments to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of valuables and electronics before pack-out for claims.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and communicate with your moving company.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Find official rates for TLE, DLA, and other allowances.
Guidance, checklists, and support for your PCS.
Base-specific arrival information and relocation support.
Schools & Childcare
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Military families at Schofield Barracks access education through local public schools, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. Most children attend schools in the Leilehua Complex, part of the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE). The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for enrollment guidance, transition support, and connecting with special programs. Contact the SLO early to ease your move and ensure your child’s needs are met.
Childcare Options
Schofield Barracks Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and prioritizes military families.
Schofield Barracks School Age Center (SAC)
The SAC provides before- and after-school care, school break camps, and summer programs. Staff support homework, enrichment, and recreation in a safe setting.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers home-based care by certified providers on or near Schofield Barracks. The program emphasizes small group sizes and flexible hours for military families.
Local Schools
Leilehua-Mililani-Waialua Complex Area (HIDOE)
This public school district serves Schofield Barracks and is known for strong community support and diverse academic offerings. Schools in the complex often receive above-average ratings on GreatSchools.org, especially for their STEM and JROTC programs.
Wheeler Elementary School
Wheeler Elementary, located near Schofield Barracks, is praised for its inclusive environment and military family support. GreatSchools.org rates it above average for test scores and student progress.
Leilehua High School
Leilehua High is recognized for robust college prep, AP courses, and a well-regarded JROTC program. The school receives solid marks for diversity and extracurriculars on GreatSchools.org.