Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Joint Base Lewis-McChord is a training and mobilization center for all services and is the only Army power-projection platform west of the Rockies.  Its key geographic location provides rapid access to the deep-water ports of Tacoma, Olympia and Seattle for deploying equipment.  Units can be deployed from JBLM-McChord Field, and individuals and small groups can also use nearby Sea-Tac Airport.  The strategic location of the base provides Air Force units with the ability to conduct combat and humanitarian airlift to any location in the world.

If you arrive by commercial airline, information and assistance are available at the USO in the Seattle-Tacoma (Sea-Tac) International Airport.  Commercial transportation is available from the airport directly to JBLM.  While awaiting transportation, you and your family may relax in the USO Lounge on the second floor.  For shuttle service, go through Door 00 of the main floor, all the way to the end.  Shuttle bus transportation can be obtained directly to JBLM-McChord Field and to JBLM-Lewis Main.  You will have to take a taxi or rental car if you arrive after midnight. 

If you arrive by train, Tacoma is the stop nearest to JBLM.  Taxi and bus services are available from the station to JBLM.  Those traveling by bus can make connections directly to the JBLM.  If you are driving, you should have no trouble finding JBLM.  Interstate 5 goes right by Exit 125 which will take you to JBLM-McChord Field, Main gate, and is open 24 hours a day. (For Air Force Personnel) or Exit 120 will take you to JBLM-Lewis Main, Liberty Gate, and is open 24 hours a day. (For Army Personnel)

Note:  When calling DSN in CONUS the 312 country code is not necessary.

Defense Switched Network (DSN) Dialing Instructions

The DSN is the provider of long-distance a communications service for the Department of Defense (DoD). Every installation has a special DSN number and the numbers vary by world-wide location. In order to place a call using DSN, the caller must be using a military phone on an installation. Cell phones cannot dial DSN numbers. When dialing a DSN number from a United States installation to another United States installation, it is unnecessary to dial the DSN 312 area code. When dialing a DSN number to/from overseas locations, the DSN area code must be included. The operator can be reached at commercial 1-844-DISA-HLP (347-2457), Option 2.