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Redstone Arsenal Base Guide

Joe Wallace & Michelle Nati

Redstone Arsenal is located in Huntsville, Alabama. Started in 1941 as a chemical weapons plant, its true legacy took off in the 1950s when it became the center of the U.S. rocket program. This work laid the foundation for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.

Today, Redstone Arsenal serves as the backbone for the nation’s missile and space programs. It’s home to more than 70 organizations, including U.S. Army Materiel Command (AMC), NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and the Missile Defense Agency.

With the relocation of U.S. Space Command to the Arsenal, the installation remains the premier site for aviation research and global defense technology. If you’re PCS-ing to Redstone, here’s what you need to know for your move.

Redstone Arsenal Guide

• • Location: Huntsville, Alabama
  • Zip Code: 35898
  • Branch: U.S. Army

• Main Mission/Notable units: Hub for missile defense, space, and intelligence, hosting AMC, NASA Marshall, MDA, FBI, and U.S. Space Command.
• Main Operator: 256-876-2151
• Population: ~ 45,500, ~ 900 active duty soldiers and reserve military, ~27,300 civilians,  ~17,000 contractors
• Official Website: Redstone Arsenal

Arriving at Redstone Arsenal: Check-In & In-Processing

When you arrive at Redstone, head to HHC AMCOM in Building 3494 on Honest John Road to for in-processing paperwork and instructions, or call 256-842-7091.

Key Documents to Hand-Carry

• PCS orders (multiple copies
• Marriage license
• School records
• Immunization records
• Immigration certificates
• Birth certificates
• HHG inventory
• Travel documentation
• Passports
• Medical and dental records (if not transferred by the military)
• Alabama Blue Card (for school-age children)

Redstone Arsenal Housing & Lodging

On-Base Housing

Housing on Redstone Arsenal is privatized and managed by Redstone Family Housing. On-base living consists of townhomes and single-family units across several distinct neighborhoods.

• Housing Services Office (HSO): 256-876-6666
• Privatized Housing Partner: Redstone Family Housing | 256-841-7079

Off-Base Housing

Many service members and families live in the surrounding communities.

• Huntsville: This is the closest major city since the base is actually located here. It offers the absolute shortest commute, especially if you’re looking at neighborhoods like West Huntsville or downtown, and has everything from historic homes to modern apartments.
• Madison: Located west of the base, this city offers a 12-mile commute and is the top choice for military families seeking a suburban feel and a highly rated school system.
• Decatur: Known as the “River City,” it’s located about 23 miles from the Arsenal. It’s a popular option for those looking for more affordable housing or a life near the Tennessee River.

Temporary Lodging (TLF) & On-Base Inn

The on-base inn is the IHG Army Hotels and Candlewood Suites. Reservations should be made as far in advance as possible, especially during peak PCS season. Pet-friendly units are limited; be sure to request one if needed.

• Reservations: 1-877-711-TEAM

Redstone Arsenal BAH, Cost of Living, and Allowances

Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is based on your rank, dependent status, and the base’s zip code. The cost of living in Huntsville, Alabama, is lower than the national average.

See the 2025 BAH Rates for Redstone Arsenal, 35898.

Schools & Child Care Near Redstone Arsenal

Local School Districts

No DoD or schools operate on base at Redstone Arsenal. On-post residents typically attend Williams Elementary, Williams Technology Middle School, or Columbia High in the Huntsville City School System.

The School Liaison Office (SLO) is your primary resource for all questions regarding school registration, transfers, and local education options.

• School Liaison Office: 520-725-8641

Child Development Centers (CDC)

Redstone Arsenal offers a Child Development Center (CDC) that serves children aged 6 weeks to 5 years on a full-day basis. All registration is managed through the central MilitaryChildCare.com website. Family Child Care (FCC) homes are also available.

Key Contacts at Redstone Arsenal

• Base Operator: 256-876-2151
• Housing Office (MHO): 256-400-5940
• Privatized Housing: 256-841-7079
• Temporary Lodging (Inn): 1-877-711-TEAM
• In-Processing/Welcome Center: 256-876-5397
• School Liaison Office: 520-725-8641
• CDC Registration: MilitaryChildCare.com
• Medical Clinic / TRICARE: 800-223-9531
• Public Affairs Office: 256-876-4161

BASE MISSION AND UNITS

Redstone Arsenal is home to the U.S. Army’s Materiel Command (AMC), NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). Key units on the installation include the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Redstone Test Center (RTC), and the 308th Military Intelligence Battalion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Redstone Arsenal Base

What is Redstone Arsenal Base famous for?

Redstone Arsenal is the hub for the U.S. Army’s aviation and missile programs and home to key defense, intelligence, and space agencies.

What is the zip code for Redstone Arsenal Base?

The main zip code for the base is 35898. Its post office is located at 35808, and some on-base locations use additional 358XX codes.

Can civilians visit Redstone Arsenal Base?

Visitors 18 years old and older who lack a DoD identification card must undergo a background check before entering Redstone Arsenal. However, those who present a Common Access Card (CAC), Military ID, Military Dependent ID, Gold Star ID, or other valid DoD credentials are not subject to this requirement.

What is the closest major airport to Redstone Arsenal Base?

Huntsville International Airport (HSV) is the closest major airport. It is about 12 miles from base.

Base History

Redstone Arsenal began in World War Two as an ordnance production and storage operation starting in 1941. In less than a decade, it began supporting Army missile operations, including research and development.

Redstone Arsenal was home to research efforts sometimes described as an offshoot of Operation Paperclip, the program which imported German rocket scientists to the USA to continue research and development post-war.

In 1956, Werner Von Braun would be a key figure in the installation’s evolution; Von Braun became head of the Redstone Arsenal Development Operations Division. The results of this move included the development and testing of a medium-range guided missile launched in 1957.

In 1958, the U.S. Army Ordnance Missile Command (AOMC) began operations at Redstone Arsenal. Soon after, President Dwight D. Eisenhower would raise the idea of a civilian-run space exploration agency. Over time, this led to the federal law which created NASA.

Redstone would eventually become the home of the NASA George C. Marshall Space Flight Center, dedicated by President Eisenhower in 1959 and playing a major role in the American space program ever since.

Today, Redstone Arsenal continues to support Army missile programs and many other missions, including, but not limited to, Army Materiel Command, Army Aviation and Missile Life Cycle Management Command, the Tactical UAV Project Office, Redstone Test Center, and the Missile Defense Agency.

Surrounding Area

Redstone Arsenal is near Huntsville, Alabama’s 4th-largest city. Huntsville sits across Madison and Limestone counties. Huntsville has many outdoor attractions, especially boating, fishing, and other on-the-water fun. You should also check out Burritt on the Mountain, an open-air museum with a historic mansion, a performance area, and historic park areas.

The Alabama Constitution Village is the sort of destination that features local tour guides in traditional regalia, sharing stories, trivia, and lore. You can learn a lot about local history and what it was like to live in Huntsville in early America here.

One major attraction in Huntsville? Space Camp. This is an educational summer camp in Huntsville, Alabama, held in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum near the Marshall Space Flight Center. It was made famous in the 1980s as a film starring Kate Capshaw and Tom Skerritt.

Colleges and Universities

Redstone Arsenal is served by the Toftoy Education Center, serving military and family members. The Center can help you find tuition assistance and develop an academic plan to help you achieve your educational goals.  Call 256-842-9703 for more information. Local colleges and higher education opportunities include, but are not limited to:

• Auburn University Montgomery
• Athens State University
• Calhoun College
• Columbia College
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Florida Institute of Technology

Those are the schools the DoD lists as having “on-site” courses offered at Redstone Arsenal. Other local opportunities off-post include:

• Alabama A&M University
• Faulkner University
• Drake State Tech College
• NW Shoals State Community College
• University of Alabama-Huntsville
• Virginia College

Look up veteran benefits in the State of Alabama.

Army Bases in Alabama

• Anniston Army Depot
• Fort Novosel (Formerly Fort Rucker)
• Redstone Arsenal
• USAREC, 2nd Medical Recruiting Battalion
• USAREC, Montgomery Battalion

Air Force Bases in Alabama

• Maxwell AFB and Gunter Annex

Did you know? The State of Alabama waives all license fees and property taxes on vehicles purchased with a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

This Alabama military benefit is for qualifying disabled veterans who purchase a specially adapted vehicle using VA grant money to pay for some or all of the cost. Contact the Alabama Department of Revenue, County Offices where the vehicle is located for more information and to apply for this military benefit.

Get more info on VA benefits for veterans, retirees, separating service members, spouses, dependents, and disabled veterans. Learn more about the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, monthly housing allowances, VA loans, and TRICARE.

Relocating to Alabama

Are you relocating to Alabama as part of a permanent change of station move or temporary duty? You can use the federal government’s neighborhood lookup tool to get an advance look at data on where you may be living, including housing stats.

VA Resources in Alabama for Veterans and Military Retirees

Do you need the location of an Alabama VA health clinic, Vet Center, VA National Cemetery, or VA Benefits intake site? The list below has Alabama VA facilities’ addresses and contact phone numbers.

Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Health Clinics

Selma VA Clinic

206 Vaughn Memorial Drive
Selma, AL 36701-6949
205-554-2010

Bessemer VA Clinic

975 Ninth Avenue, Southwest
Medical West Office Complex
Suite 400
Bessemer, AL 35022-7841
205-428-3495
Mental health: 205-428-3495 x347932

Childersburg VA Clinic

151 9th Avenue, Northwest
Childersburg, AL 35044-1231
256-378-9026
Mental health: 256-378-9026 x377141

Central Alabama VA Medical Center-Montgomery

215 Perry Hill Road
Montgomery, AL 36109-3725
334-272-4670
Mental health: 334-272-4670 x4552

Birmingham VA Medical Center

700 South 19th Street
Birmingham, AL 35233-1927
205-933-8101
Mental health: 205-933-8101 x335508

Birmingham VA Clinic

2415 7th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-3317
205-933-8101
Mental health: 205-933-8101 x335508

Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center

3701 Loop Road East
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404-5099
205-554-2000
Mental health: 205-554-2000 x3098

Birmingham East VA Clinic

7901 Crestwood Boulevard
Irondale, AL 35210-2611
205-933-8101 x335508

Central Alabama Montgomery VA Clinic

8105 Veterans Way
Montgomery, AL 36117-3879
800-214-8387
Mental health: 334-272-4670 x2484

VA Benefits Sites

Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) / Pre-Discharge Claims Intake Site Maxwell Air Force Base

42nd Medical Group
300 South Twing Street Bldg. 760
Maxwell AFB, AL 36112
334-953-3618

Montgomery VA Regional Benefit Office

345 Perry Hill Rd
Montgomery, AL 36109
800-827-1000

VA Vet Centers

Birmingham Vet Center

400 Emery Drive
Suite 200
Hoover, AL 35244
205-212-3122

Montgomery Vet Center

4405 Atlanta Highway
Montgomery, AL 36109
334-273-7796

VA Cemeteries

Alabama National Cemetery

3133 Highway 119
Montevallo, AL 35115-8632
205-665-9039

Other Military Bases in the Continental United States:

• Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona
• Luke Air Force Base, Arizona
• Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas
• Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado
• MacDill Air Force Base, Florida

Look up the BAH in your new duty location by searching for your zip code’s housing allowance using our BAH Calculator. You can also review our complete list of Military Bases by State.