FORT BENNING
ARMY
Columbus, GA
United States
FORT BENNING
ARMY
Columbus, GA
United States
Fort Benning
Home of the Infantry
Base Essentials
Home of the Infantry and Armor schools and the Maneuver Center of Excellence near Columbus, GA, Fort Moore is a major training and operational installation with a large, tightly-knit military community.
Base Details
Type
Army Post
Branch
ARMY
Command
TRADOC
Status
Active
Est.
1918
Acres
182,000
Active Duty
30,000
Civilian
9,000
Population
320,000
Economic Impact
$5.6 billion
Fort Benning History
Named AfterBrigadier General Henry Lewis Benning (Confederate)
Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia, was established in 1918 as a major infantry training center. Renamed Fort Moore in 2023 in honor of Lieutenant General Hal Moore and his wife Julia, replacing its previous Confederate namesake, it has served as the "Home of the Infantry" for over a century. The installation hosts the Maneuver Center of Excellence, Airborne and Ranger Schools, the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation, and numerous other training organizations. It produces the bulk of the Army's infantry, armor, and cavalry officers and soldiers and remains indispensable to the Army's combat training pipeline.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Maneuver Center of Excellence
—
—
Infantry School / Armor School
—
—
Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade
—
—
Historic Timeline
1918
Camp Benning Established; Infantry School Relocates Here
1942
Airborne School Activated; Paratrooper Training Begins
1951
Ranger School Founded During Korean War
1963
Air Assault Division Tests Airmobile Concept at Benning
2023
Fort Benning Renamed Fort Moore Honoring Lt. Gen. Hal Moore
—
View Key Moments
(5)
1918
Camp Benning Established; Infantry School Relocates Here
Camp Benning was established on October 19, 1918, near Columbus, Georgia. Congress quickly voted to make it permanent, and by 1920 had appropriated over $1 million for the Infantry School of Arms, consolidating training from Fort Sill, Camp Perry, and Augusta at the new post. In 1922 the camp was upgraded to fort status, becoming Fort Benning.
1942
Airborne School Activated; Paratrooper Training Begins
Following the War Department's 1940 approval of an experimental airborne test platoon drawn from Fort Benning's 29th Infantry Regiment, the Army formally organized a centralized Airborne training facility there on May 15, 1942. The school became the sole source of Army paratrooper qualification, training tens of thousands of soldiers for World War II airborne operations and remains the home of the U.S. Army Airborne School today.
1951
Ranger School Founded During Korean War
Ranger training was initiated in September 1950 in response to Korean War combat demands, and on October 10, 1951, the Ranger Training Command was reconstituted as the Ranger Department under the Infantry School at Fort Benning. The first Ranger class for individual candidates graduated on March 1, 1952, institutionalizing elite small-unit leadership training that remains one of the most demanding courses in the U.S. military.
1963
Air Assault Division Tests Airmobile Concept at Benning
On February 15, 1963, the 11th Air Assault Division (Test) was activated at Fort Benning to validate the airmobility doctrine recommended by the Army's Howze Board. Extensive field exercises proved that helicopter-borne infantry could revolutionize battlefield mobility, and on July 1, 1965, the unit was re-flagged as the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), which deployed to Vietnam 27 days later.
2023
Fort Benning Renamed Fort Moore Honoring Lt. Gen. Hal Moore
On May 11, 2023, Fort Benning was officially redesignated Fort Moore in honor of Lieutenant General Harold "Hal" Moore — commander of American forces at the 1965 Battle of Ia Drang Valley — and his wife Julia Moore, who pressured the Army to deliver death notifications in person. It was the first time a military spouse had been honored through a base renaming.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for Fort Benning.
Fort Benning Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for Fort Benning.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from Fort Benning.
Information
Fort Benning Housing: 10 On-Post Options
Read
Information
Welcome to Fort Benning, Georgia: Your Comprehensive Guide
Read
Information
20 of the Best Things to Do in Fort Benning, GA
Read
Health & Fitness
Why Hunters and Fishermen Should Sign Up for iSportsman Fort Benning
Read
Information
How To Prepare for Your Hike at Providence Canyon State Park
Read
PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to Fort Benning.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
ACS Relocation Readiness Program
Phone
(706) 545-4374Hours
Mon–Tue, Thu: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wed: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM; Fri: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
In-Processing
Report to the Installation Reception Center (IRC) at Building 35 (Ridgway Hall), Room 239, 969 Lincoln Street in duty uniform during duty hours (Monday–Thursday 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Friday 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM). The 24/7 staff duty line is (706) 905-0560.
After hours, weekends, or federal holidays, report to the MCoE Staff Duty desk at Building 4 (McGinnis-Wickam Hall) first, then report to Building 35, Room 239 by 9:00 AM the next business day. Civilian attire is acceptable for after-hours reporting. Senior Officers (O-5+ and E-9) report to Building 35 at 0900 the following duty day.
In-processing takes approximately 7 days and covers Medical, Finance, Transportation, Housing, and Education. Single Soldiers receive temporary barracks in Building 976 during processing. Newcomers Orientation is held every Wednesday at 9:00 AM at Building 7 (ACS). Spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend. A lending closet is available at Building 7 with household items on 30-day loan.
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Open PCS Entitlements Estimator
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Download Full Base Guide PDF
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for Fort Benning.
On-post housing at Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning) is managed by Lendlease, which operates communities including Custer Terrace and Sand Hill neighborhoods offering 2- to 5-bedroom homes organized by rank and family size across the installation near Columbus, Georgia. Lendlease maintains modern interiors with open floor plans and updated appliances, 24/7 maintena…
Local Market
$1,150/mo
rent
/
$195,000
avg. home
2026 BAH Calculator
Loading calculator...
View Full BAH Rates
Cost of Living Around Fort Benning
82
18% Below National Average
Housing
Calculate Your Buying Power
See what you can afford using your rank, BAH, and local market data.
Open Calculator
Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near Fort Benning.
School Liaison Officer
Post School Liaison Officer
5
Elementary Schools
View schools
2
Middle Schools
View schools
2
High Schools
View schools
3
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
Fort Moore — still listed as Fort Benning in most systems — is located in Muscogee County, Georgia, with portions extending across the Alabama state line into Russell County. Columbus, Georgia, is the primary metro area, offering a full range of urban amenities. Many families also choose Phenix City, Alabama, just across the Chattahoochee River, which benefits from Alabama's lack of state income tax on military pay.
Columbus (North Columbus / Midland)
Suburban
North Columbus and the Midland area sit just outside Fort Moore's main gate and offer the most convenient off-post living for soldiers at Benning. The area has a mix of older and newer subdivisions with good rental availability across all price points. Muscogee County schools are serviceable and the commercial corridor along Veterans Pkwy provides everything families need day-to-day.
Commute: 10–20 min
Gate: Main Gate (Victory Dr)
Schools: Muscogee County School District
Families with kids
Single service members
Budget-friendly
Dual military
Proximity to the National Infantry Museum just outside the gate. Columbus has a growing restaurant scene, a minor league baseball team, and Chattahoochee River access. Alabama is minutes away for additional options.
Phenix City, AL
Suburban
Phenix City sits directly across the Chattahoochee River from Fort Moore and has become increasingly popular with military families due to lower Alabama taxes, more affordable housing, and newer suburban development. Russell County schools are a mixed bag, but many families use it as a base while seeking private school options or homeschooling. The cross-bridge commute is short.
Commute: 10–15 min
Gate: Main Gate (Victory Dr)
Schools: Russell County Schools / Phenix City Schools
Budget-friendly
Families with kids
Single service members
Alabama has no state income tax, which meaningfully increases take-home pay. Newer subdivisions along US-431 offer better housing stock. Short bridge crossing to all Columbus amenities.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at Fort Benning.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Partially exempt
Retirement Pay
Partially exempt
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Georgia taxes active duty pay of Georgia residents at a flat 5.39% for 2025 tax year. Starting January 1, 2026 (Governor…
Spouse Income Tax
Nonresident military spouses accompanying a service member stationed in Georgia are exempt from Georgia income tax on wa…
Vehicle Registration
Nonresident active duty service members (home of record outside Georgia) may be exempt from Georgia's Title Ad Valorem T…
Property Tax
Disabled veterans receive a $121,812 assessed-value homestead exemption (2025 figure). Additional county-level exemption…
Resources
Pet Policies at Fort Benning
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at Fort Benning.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
Fort Moore Veterinary Clinic
Phone
(706) 545-1127Hours
Mon–Fri (call to confirm current schedule)
Restricted Breeds
8
Prohibited Animals
13
Dog Parks
2
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at Fort Benning.
Commissary
1
Fort Moore Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
PX
Mon–Sat 8:30am–7pm, Sun 10am–6pm
Medical
1
Martin Army Community Hospital — Hospital
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
MWR & Recreation
2
Fitness Center
Outdoor Rec
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Fort Benning.
01
What are the visitor gate hours?
Main Gate (I-185 / Lindsey Creek) is the main visitor access gate and is open 24 hours a day. Other gates are restricted to military and DoD ID holders — see the Gates section for full schedules.
Read answer
02
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Fort Moore Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Call (706) 544-3965 for current hours.
Read answer
03
Is there a PX on base?
Yes, Fort Benning has a PX (Post Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Sat 8:30am–7pm, Sun 10am–6pm.
Read answer
04
What is the base hospital or clinic?
Martin Army Community Hospital is the primary military treatment hospital serving Fort Benning. Call (706) 544-2516 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
Read answer
05
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, Fort Benning has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering full-day and part-day programs. Waitlists fill quickly — register at MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as orders are received.
Read answer
06
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, Fort Benning has on-post temporary lodging available for incoming PCS personnel and TDY visitors. Reserve early — spaces fill fast during peak PCS season (May through August).
Read answer
07
What school district serves the base?
Muscogee County School District (rated B (Niche)) serves most military families at Fort Benning. Visit muscogee.k12.ga.us for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
Read answer
08
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at Fort Benning restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
Read answer
09
Is there a dog park on base?
Yes, Main Post Dog Park is a fenced off-leash dog park available to residents at Fort Benning. There are 2 total dog parks across the installation.
Read answer
10
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, Fort Benning has a fitness center available free of charge to active-duty, Reserve, and retired members and their eligible family members. Contact MWR for current hours and locations.
Read answer
11
How is military pay taxed in Georgia?
Partially exempt. See the Finance section of this page for a full breakdown of Georgia's tax rules for military members.
Read answer
12
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
Read answer
13
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for Fort Benning.
Read answer
14
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
Read answer
15
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near Fort Benning.
Read answer
Question
More ARMY Installations
Explore other ARMY bases and installations.
Aberdeen Proving Ground
Aberdeen, MD
Anniston Army Depot
Anniston, AL
Brooke Army Medical Center
San Antonio, TX
Camp Humphreys
Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi
Carlisle Barracks
Carlisle, PA
Detroit Arsenal
Warren, MI
Fort Barfoot
Blackstone, VA
Fort Belvoir
Fort Belvoir, VA
Fort Bliss
El Paso, TX
Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg, NC
Fort Buchanan
Guaynabo, PR
Fort Campbell
Fort Campbell, KY
Fort Carson
Colorado Springs, CO
Fort Detrick
Frederick, MD
Fort Devens
Devens, MA
Fort Drum
Watertown, NY
Fort Gordon
Augusta, GA
Fort Greely
Delta Junction, AK
Fort Hamilton
Brooklyn, NY
Fort Hood
Killeen, TX
Fort Huachuca
Sierra Vista, AZ
Fort Indiantown Gap
Annville, PA
Fort Irwin
Fort Irwin, CA
Fort Jackson
Columbia, SC
Fort Knox
Fort Knox, KY
Fort Leavenworth
Leavenworth, KS
Fort Lee
Prince George, VA
Fort Leonard Wood
Waynesville, MO
Fort McCoy
Fort McCoy, WI
Fort McPherson
Atlanta, GA
Fort Meade
Fort Meade, MD
Fort Polk
Leesville, LA
Fort Riley
Junction City, KS
Fort Rucker
Ozark, AL
Fort Sam Houston
San Antonio, TX
Fort Shafter
Honolulu, HI
Fort Sill
Lawton, OK
Fort Stewart
Hinesville, GA
Fort Wainwright
Fairbanks, AK
Hawaii – Army
Honolulu, HI
Natick Soldier Systems Center
Natick, MA
Pentagon
Arlington, VA
Picatinny Arsenal
Wharton, NJ
Presidio of Monterey
Monterey, CA
Redstone Arsenal
Huntsville, AL
Reynolds Army Health Clinic
Fort Sill, OK
Rock Island Arsenal
Rock Island, IL
Schofield Barracks/Wheeler Army Airfield
Wahiawa, HI
TRIPLER Army Community Hospital
Honolulu, HI
Tobyhanna Army Depot
Tobyhanna, PA
USAG Miami
Doral, FL
Walter Reed National Medical Center
Bethesda, MD
West Point
West Point, NY
White Sands Missile Range
White Sands, NM
Yuma Proving Ground
Yuma, AZ
Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.