West Point
West Point Military Base Guide
Military Base History
200303-N-VI515-0021 SAN DIEGO (Mar. 3, 2020) Capt. Bradford L. Smith, Naval Medical Center San Diego’s (NMCSD) commanding officer (center), points out the historical locations of NMCSD’s campus to Patty Maysent, University of San Diego Health’s chief executive officer (left), during a tour...
West Point is officially known as the United States Military Academy (USMA) and was established in 1802 to train officers for the U.S. Army. Its location on the Hudson River was chosen for its strategic value during the American Revolution, when it served as a critical defensive fortification against British forces.
The academy’s original mission focused on engineering and military science, reflecting the nation’s early needs for skilled Army leaders. This focus helped shape the curriculum and reputation of West Point in its formative years.
Throughout the 19th century, West Point expanded its facilities and academic programs to support a growing student body. The construction of new barracks, classrooms, and training areas enabled the academy to accommodate more cadets and improve instruction.
West Point became a model for military education worldwide, producing leaders who played pivotal roles in the Civil War, both Union and Confederate. Its influence extended beyond the United States as other nations adopted similar training methods.
During World War I and World War II, West Point accelerated its curriculum to meet wartime demands, graduating officers at a rapid pace. The Cold War era brought further modernization, with new academic buildings and advanced training resources added to keep pace with technological changes in warfare.
The academy’s modernization efforts ensured that cadets received up-to-date instruction in both leadership and technology, preparing them for evolving military challenges.
Today, West Point continues to serve as the premier leadership development institution for the U.S. Army. It remains a vital part of the local community and the nation, producing graduates who serve in key military and civilian roles.
The installation has always been known as West Point or the United States Military Academy, with no significant official name changes since its founding.
Major Units & Training Programs
ROTC cadets compete in the Northern Warfare Challenge on Feb. 21, 2025, at Fort McCoy, Wis. ROTC teams with U.S. Army Cadet Command came from all around the United States as they battled through a wide variety of challenges and long ruck marching courses in cold and snow to fight for the top...
Major Units
United States Corps of Cadets
Serves as the student body and primary training element of the United States Military Academy, preparing future Army officers through academic, military, and physical development programs.
U.S. Military Academy Garrison (West Point Garrison)
Provides installation support, services, and resources to enable the training, education, and readiness of cadets, faculty, and tenant units at West Point.
Training Schools
United States Military Academy (USMA)
Overview
Four-year undergraduate program combining academic education, military leadership development, and physical fitness training to commission graduates as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army.
Course Length
4 years
Who Attends
Cadets (future Army officers)
Arrival & In-Processing
240408-N-AS200-1025 PORT HUENEME, Calif. – Capt. Jason Kranz, chief staff officer, Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), center-left, Cmdr. Michael Warren, public works officer, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Southwest NBVC, center-left, joins staff members and partners to officially...
Welcome to West Point! Arriving at this historic installation is an exciting step. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding base access procedures will help ensure a smooth start for you and your family. For more details, visit the official West Point website.
West Point’s main entry point is Thayer Gate, located near the southern end of the installation. Thayer Gate is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. You must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved visitor pass for entry. All drivers’ licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant licenses require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks at the gate. Security teams may conduct random vehicle inspections to maintain a high security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass from the Visitor Control Center before entering. Sponsors should coordinate with the Pass Office for guest access.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates (for dependents)
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical and Dental Records
-
Proof of Housing (if arranged)
West Point offers a robust sponsor program. Incoming personnel should contact their gaining unit or the West Point Relocation Office to request a sponsor. Sponsors help guide you through arrival, in-processing, and local orientation.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, located near Thayer Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include check-in at Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Most in-processing tasks are completed within 2–3 business days, but plan for additional time if required by your unit.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside Thayer Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and weekends from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in at the VCC before entering the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
During the summer surge of Permanent-Change-of-Station moves for Army families, installations like Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, offer PCS Open House events where Soldiers and families can obtain information on programs and services. Army leadership is committed to improving Quality of Life for Soldiers in the areas of Housing, PCS Moves, Child and Youth Programs, and Spouse Employment. (U.S. Army Photo)
Understand your entitlements before you move. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) covers up to 10 days of lodging and meals in the local area while you secure permanent housing. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset PCS costs not covered by other reimbursements. Keep all receipts and documentation for reimbursement. Check current rates and entitlements on official DoD sites. Reach out to your assigned sponsor or the West Point Relocation Assistance Program for local insights and support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and inprocessing.
- Contact the West Point Housing Office as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS orders, receipts, and key documents in a safe, accessible folder.
- Check vehicle and ID requirements for West Point access before arrival.
- Plan for limited on-post lodging, especially during summer peak season.
- Photograph valuable items before pack-out for insurance purposes.
- Ask about local pet policies and boarding options if bringing pets.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and manage your move.
Find official DoD travel and transportation rates, including DLA and TLE.
Guides, checklists, and support for every step of your PCS.
Information on on-post and off-post housing options at West Point.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for this PCS move.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable