USAG Ansbach
USAG Ansbach PCS Guide
Military Base History
ANSBACH, Germany (May 10, 2024) – During an overview tour of U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Ansbach, Lt. Gen. Patrick Matlock, U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, was raised in an Aerial Ladder Truck with USAG Ansbach Commander, Col. Aaron Dixon and Brig. Gen. Steven Carpenter, Commanding...
USAG Ansbach began as a Luftwaffe airfield in the 1930s, built by Nazi Germany for military aviation. Its original mission was to support German air operations during the lead-up to and throughout World War II. The site included several hangars, barracks, and support buildings, reflecting its strategic importance to the German military.
After World War II, U.S. forces took control of the installation in 1945. The base, then known as Katterbach Kaserne, became a key site for the U.S. Army in occupied Germany.
During the Cold War, USAG Ansbach expanded to support NATO operations and housed aviation and armored units, including the 1st Armored Division and later, aviation brigades. The base grew with new facilities and infrastructure to meet evolving military needs.
Throughout the Cold War and into the 21st century, USAG Ansbach played a vital role in U.S. and NATO defense strategy. It served as a hub for helicopter operations, particularly for the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade.
The installation also supported family housing, schools, and community services for American personnel stationed in Germany.
Today, USAG Ansbach continues to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, focusing on aviation readiness and multinational training. The garrison provides essential support to rotational forces and strengthens U.S.-German partnerships.
The installation's name has remained consistent since its designation as U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, with its primary area, Katterbach Kaserne, retaining its historical name.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Soldiers utilize the Aviation Combined Arms Tactical Training system for Polish Armed Forces observers during the second Polish Apache Initiative summit at U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach, Germany, Jan. 24, 2025. Hosted by the 12th CAB, the second Polish Apache Initiative summit provided the...
Major Units
12th Combat Aviation Brigade
Provides aviation support—including attack, reconnaissance, and air assault capabilities—for U.S. Army Europe and Africa operations. The brigade enhances mobility, surveillance, and combat power for ground forces across the European theater.
5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment
Delivers air and missile defense for U.S. and allied forces in Europe, protecting critical assets and supporting deterrence operations against aerial threats.
Arrival & In-Processing
USAG Ansbach’s Directorate for Public Work (DPW) hosted Earth Day Event for American and German elementary school students. Event sited on a small lake, so called Soldier’s Lake at the gates of Urlas Kaserne. Ansbach DPW work on the site to provide an environmental center with water...
Welcome to USAG Ansbach! Arriving at a new duty station is an exciting step, and being prepared will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Familiarizing yourself with base access and check-in procedures will save time and reduce stress. For the latest updates, visit the official USAG Ansbach website.
USAG Ansbach’s main access point is the Katterbach Kaserne Main Gate, which is the primary entry for incoming personnel and families. This gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access. All personnel must present a valid Military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) at entry. For family members and visitors, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or passport is required. The base enforces 100% ID checks and may conduct random vehicle inspections to maintain a high security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center (VCC) just outside the Main Gate with valid identification and your sponsor’s information. All vehicles entering the installation must be properly registered and insured.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Passports (for all family members)
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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
USAG Ansbach offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or use the sponsorship request form available through your unit’s S1 or the Military Personnel Division. Your sponsor will provide local guidance, meet you upon arrival, and assist with in-processing steps.
In-processing at USAG Ansbach takes place at the Welcome Center, located in Building 5817 on Katterbach Kaserne, near the main gate. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include checking in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as completing unit-specific requirements. Most personnel complete in-processing within 2-3 business days, depending on individual needs and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Katterbach Kaserne Main Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering guests in DBIDS, and processing sponsorship for non-military visitors. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak PCS season.
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)
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to USAG Ansbach starts with receiving official orders. Once you have orders, contact your local Transportation Office to set up your move. 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 receive reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to manage your move, track shipments, and upload documents. DPS is required for scheduling and monitoring your HHG or PPM. You'll need to keep your orders, inventory lists, and receipts handy throughout the process. Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help cover out-of-pocket costs during your move. TLE covers lodging and meals for a set number of days while you secure housing. DLA helps offset miscellaneous moving expenses. Make sure to review your entitlements and submit claims promptly. USAG Ansbach offers support for incoming families, but housing and school registration can take time. Plan ahead and reach out to your sponsor for local tips and resources.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep orders and important documents with you during travel.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and contact info.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Coordinate pet travel early; Germany has strict import rules.
- Contact Ansbach housing office before arrival to check availability.
- Review local school registration requirements if moving with children.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and track your move, upload documents, and manage your shipment.
Check per diem rates and travel entitlements.
Guidance and resources for every step of your PCS.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance (DLA) for your move.
Official base guide for incoming personnel and families.
Schools & Childcare
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On-Base Schools
Ansbach Elementary School
DoDEA elementary school located on USAG Ansbach, serving children from preschool through 5th grade. The school supports military families with a familiar curriculum and dedicated staff.
Ansbach Middle High School
DoDEA middle/high school on-base providing education for grades 6 through 12. The school offers AP courses, sports, and activities designed for military-connected students.
Childcare Options
Ansbach Child Development Center (CDC)
Full-day and part-day care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Accredited by NAEYC, the CDC offers age-appropriate learning and play in a safe environment.
School Age Center (SAC)
Before- and after-school care, holiday camps, and summer programs for elementary-age children. Accredited and designed to support working military families.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
On-base certified providers offer flexible, in-home care options for infants, toddlers, and school-age children. Great for families needing non-traditional hours or smaller settings.
Local Schools
Staatliche Realschule Ansbach
Well-regarded German public secondary school (grades 5-10) offering a strong academic program with a focus on science and technology. Instruction is in German; best suited for fluent speakers.
Gymnasium Carolinum Ansbach
Historic German public high school (grades 5-12) known for academic rigor and a broad curriculum, including strong STEM and language programs. Instruction is in German.
International School of Nuremberg
Private, English-language international school about 40 minutes from Ansbach. Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program and is highly rated by expat families for its global curriculum.