FORT BLISS
ARMY
El Paso, TX
United States
FORT BLISS
ARMY
El Paso, TX
United States
Fort Bliss
Base Essentials
Home of the 1st Armored Division and one of the Army's largest installations by land area, Fort Bliss sits outside El Paso on the Texas-New Mexico border — hot, dry climate with low COL and strong military community.
Base Details
Type
Army Post
Branch
ARMY
Command
FORSCOM
Status
Active
Est.
1849
Acres
1,120,000
Active Duty
33,000
Civilian
8,000
Population
850,000
Economic Impact
$7 billion
Fort Bliss History
Named AfterLieutenant Colonel William Wallace Smith Bliss
Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, is one of the largest military installations in the United States, encompassing over a million acres of training land. Originally established in 1849 as a frontier post, it grew into a major Air Defense Artillery center during the Cold War. Today it is home to the 1st Armored Division, a massive maneuver training area, and the Joint Modernization Command. Fort Bliss was significantly expanded through BRAC 2005 and continues to serve as a key installation for large-scale armored and air defense training. It was renamed Fort Bliss (retaining its original name) after review found its namesake was not Confederate-affiliated.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
1st Armored Division
—
—
32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command
—
—
Joint Modernization Command
—
—
Historic Timeline
1854
Post Officially Named Fort Bliss
On March 8, 1854, the Army post at El Paso was formally named Fort Bliss in honor of Lieutenant Colonel William Wallace Smith Bliss, General Zachary Taylor's chief of staff during the Mexican-American War. The garrison had existed in various forms along the Rio Grande since 1848, when the War Department first established a presence there after the Mexican-American War.
1916
Pershing Launches Punitive Expedition from Fort Bliss
After Pancho Villa's forces attacked Columbus, New Mexico, on March 9, 1916, Brigadier General John J. Pershing organized a provisional expedition of 6,600 men and crossed into Mexico on March 15, with Fort Bliss serving as the primary supply and operational base. The episode transformed the post into a nationally prominent command center and foreshadowed Pershing's later role commanding the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I.
1946
Operation Paperclip Scientists Arrive; Rocket Program Begins
By February 1946, approximately 118 German specialists recruited under Operation Paperclip — including Wernher von Braun and members of the Peenemünde V-2 team — had arrived at Fort Bliss to work for the U.S. Army. They assisted in V-2 rocket launches at nearby White Sands Proving Ground, making Fort Bliss the birthplace of American operational rocketry and directly contributing to both the U.S. missile defense program and the space program.
1966
Air Defense Artillery Center and School Established
Fort Bliss became the permanent home of the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery Center and School, an institutional role that had evolved from the Anti-Aircraft Artillery and Guided Missile Center activated in 1946. The school centralized all Army air defense doctrine, training, and materiel development at Fort Bliss, and ADA training there has supported every major U.S. conflict from Vietnam through the post-9/11 wars.
2011
1st Armored Division Uncases Colors at Fort Bliss
On May 13, 2011, the 1st Armored Division officially uncased its colors at Fort Bliss, completing a BRAC-directed transfer from Wiesbaden, Germany. The move brought approximately 11,500 additional soldiers and raised Fort Bliss's total troop strength to roughly 33,500, establishing the post as the home of the Army's premier armored division.
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1854
Post Officially Named Fort Bliss
On March 8, 1854, the Army post at El Paso was formally named Fort Bliss in honor of Lieutenant Colonel William Wallace Smith Bliss, General Zachary Taylor's chief of staff during the Mexican-American War. The garrison had existed in various forms along the Rio Grande since 1848, when the War Department first established a presence there after the Mexican-American War.
1916
Pershing Launches Punitive Expedition from Fort Bliss
After Pancho Villa's forces attacked Columbus, New Mexico, on March 9, 1916, Brigadier General John J. Pershing organized a provisional expedition of 6,600 men and crossed into Mexico on March 15, with Fort Bliss serving as the primary supply and operational base. The episode transformed the post into a nationally prominent command center and foreshadowed Pershing's later role commanding the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I.
1946
Operation Paperclip Scientists Arrive; Rocket Program Begins
By February 1946, approximately 118 German specialists recruited under Operation Paperclip — including Wernher von Braun and members of the Peenemünde V-2 team — had arrived at Fort Bliss to work for the U.S. Army. They assisted in V-2 rocket launches at nearby White Sands Proving Ground, making Fort Bliss the birthplace of American operational rocketry and directly contributing to both the U.S. missile defense program and the space program.
1966
Air Defense Artillery Center and School Established
Fort Bliss became the permanent home of the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery Center and School, an institutional role that had evolved from the Anti-Aircraft Artillery and Guided Missile Center activated in 1946. The school centralized all Army air defense doctrine, training, and materiel development at Fort Bliss, and ADA training there has supported every major U.S. conflict from Vietnam through the post-9/11 wars.
2011
1st Armored Division Uncases Colors at Fort Bliss
On May 13, 2011, the 1st Armored Division officially uncased its colors at Fort Bliss, completing a BRAC-directed transfer from Wiesbaden, Germany. The move brought approximately 11,500 additional soldiers and raised Fort Bliss's total troop strength to roughly 33,500, establishing the post as the home of the Army's premier armored division.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for Fort Bliss.
Fort Bliss Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for Fort Bliss.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from Fort Bliss.
Operations
Why the FAA Briefly Restricted El Paso Airspace Near Fort Bliss
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Fort Bliss Texas: In-Depth Welcome Center
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Films, Bites, and Brews Await at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Montecillo
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The El Paso Country Club Is the Most Prestigious Golf Club in the City
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Your Guide to the William Beaumont Army Medical Center Fort Bliss
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PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to Fort Bliss.
ACS Relocation Readiness Program
Phone
(915) 569-4227Hours
Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed weekends and federal holidays)
In-Processing
All Soldiers report to the Fort Bliss Reception Detachment at Building 909, 909 Pleasonton Road (phone: (915) 569-5261), which is staffed 24 hours daily. Sign in at the staff duty desk no later than your report date. Airport pickup from El Paso International is available by calling the Reception Detachment.
Expect to be with the Reception Detachment for five days, completing finance, medical, and dental in-processing plus the installation welcome brief. Upon arrival you will sign in, receive an orientation briefing, fill out paperwork, and be assigned a barracks room if required.
Bring copies of DA-31 leave request, assignment orders with amendments, health and dental records, military personnel records, CAC, and travel receipts for costs over $75. The In/Out Processing Office (MPD) is at Building 505, Room 154, Pershing Road, (915) 568-2482, Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Email: usarmy.bliss.imcom-central.mbx.fb-inproc@mail.mil.
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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 Bliss.
On-post housing at Fort Bliss is managed by Lendlease, which operates multiple communities across the sprawling installation straddling El Paso, Texas, and southern New Mexico, with 2- to 5-bedroom homes featuring covered parking, fenced yards, and modern amenities. Many neighborhoods have been newly constructed or renovated in recent years, and Lendlease's online p…
Local Market
$1,350/mo
rent
/
$235,000
avg. home
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Cost of Living Around Fort Bliss
82
18% Below National Average
Housing
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near Fort Bliss.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Office
2
Elementary Schools
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2
High Schools
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3
Colleges & Universities
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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 Bliss dominates the northeast corner of El Paso, and families typically settle in El Paso's established and growing northeast quadrant. El Paso is a large, affordable city with a strong military culture, warm weather nearly year-round, and easy access to New Mexico and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico.
Northeast El Paso
Suburban
Northeast El Paso — the areas around Dyer Street, Montwood, and the 54 corridor — is the default choice for most Fort Bliss families. It's closest to the main gates, densely populated with military families, and packed with supporting services. Housing is affordable and the volume of rentals means good availability year-round.
Commute: 10–20 min
Gate: Cassidy Gate / Main Gate
Schools: El Paso ISD / Socorro ISD
Families with kids
Single service members
Budget-friendly
Dual military
Close proximity to all post facilities. Large Hispanic community makes El Paso a culturally rich posting. Franklin Mountains State Park is easily accessible for hiking and outdoor recreation.
West El Paso
Suburban
West El Paso — particularly the Mesa Hills and upper Kern Place areas — offers a noticeably higher quality of life for Bliss families willing to accept a longer commute. Schools in the Canutillo and EPISD westside zones are well-rated, neighborhoods are newer and safer, and the area has better restaurants and retail. Officers and senior NCOs gravitate here.
Commute: 20–30 min
Gate: Cassidy Gate
Schools: El Paso ISD / Canutillo ISD
Families with kids
Retirees
Dual military
Proximity to UTEP, the Scenic Drive overlook, and the Rio Grande. New Mexico is minutes away, giving weekend access to White Sands, Organ Mountains, and Ruidoso.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at Fort Bliss.
State Income Tax
None
Military Pay
No state income tax
Retirement Pay
No state income tax
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Texas has no state income tax. All military pay — active duty, retirement, and Reserve/Guard — is completely untaxed at…
Spouse Income Tax
No state income tax means MSRRA has no practical effect. Military spouses owe zero Texas income tax on wages regardless…
Vehicle Registration
Texas does not exempt military members from the state motor vehicle sales and use tax (6.25%). SCRA protects nonresident…
Property Tax
100% permanently disabled veterans receive a full homestead property tax exemption with no dollar cap — the most generou…
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Pet Policies at Fort Bliss
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at Fort Bliss.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
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Restricted Breeds
12
Prohibited Animals
13
Dog Parks
—
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
Leash Laws
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at Fort Bliss.
Commissary
1
Fort Bliss Commissary
Click2Go Available
Exchange
PX
Mon–Sat 9am–9pm, Sun 9am–8pm
Medical
1
William Beaumont Army Medical Center — 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 Bliss.
01
Is there a commissary on base?
Yes, Fort Bliss Commissary is on-base and open to all authorized DoD ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Sat 7am–8pm, Sun 9am–6pm.
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02
Is there a PX on base?
Yes, Fort Bliss has a PX (Post Exchange) offering tax-free shopping for authorized ID card holders. Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–9pm, Sun 9am–8pm.
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03
What is the base hospital or clinic?
William Beaumont Army Medical Center is the primary military treatment hospital serving Fort Bliss. Call (915) 742-2121 for appointments or the nurse advice line.
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04
Is there an on-base vet clinic?
Yes, Fort Bliss Veterinary Treatment Facility provides veterinary care for pets of active-duty and retired military members. Call (915) 742-2266 to schedule.
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05
Is there a childcare center on base?
Yes, Fort Bliss 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.
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06
Is there temporary lodging on base?
Yes, Fort Bliss 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).
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07
What school district serves the base?
El Paso Independent School District (rated C (TEA)) serves most military families at Fort Bliss. Visit episd.org for enrollment info and the school finder tool.
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08
Are there pet breed restrictions on base?
Yes, on-base housing at Fort Bliss restricts certain breeds including Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Akita, and others. Contact the housing office or review your lease addendum for the full restricted breeds list.
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09
Is there a gym on base?
Yes, Fort Bliss 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.
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10
Is military pay taxed in Texas?
Texas has no state income tax, so military members at Fort Bliss owe no state taxes on military pay, allowances, or retirement income.
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11
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.
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12
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 Bliss.
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13
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.
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14
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 Bliss.
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Data & Methodology
The information on this page is compiled through a combination of sources. We reference official U.S. Department of Defense publications, branch directives, and installation command websites on a regular cadence to ensure accuracy across policy, regulation, and operational data. Where relevant, we supplement that foundation with credible auxiliary resources, including verified government agencies, military support organizations, and established partners with direct ties to the installation community.
Our editorial team includes past and present military personnel who review and contribute firsthand knowledge — ensuring what you read reflects the real experience of military life, not just what's written in a regulation.
MyBaseGuide is an independent publication and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Defense, any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, or any government agency. Information is provided for general reference and updated periodically. It may not reflect the most recent changes to installation policy or command decisions. Always confirm time-sensitive details directly with your gaining installation.