Marine Corps Base Quantico: Military Base Guide

ABOUT MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO

 

What was established as a humble Marine barracks in 1917 evolved into a massive installation coined "The Crossroads of the Marine Corps." Marine Corps Base Quantico occupies roughly 55,000 acres of land in southern Prince William County, northern Stafford County, and eastern Fauquier County. It is bordered to the east by the tiny town of Quantico, which the base has almost completely engulfed. Unique among military installations, the public has access to the base and housing areas. There's also a publicly accessible commuter train station on base with service for both the Virginia Railway Express and Amtrak.

As the home of the Marine Officer Candidate School, every Marine officer will train at Quantico, and many enlisted Marines will also pass through its gates. The Expeditionary Warfare School, Command and Staff College, and the Marine Corps University are also located at MCB Quantico, attracting senior-ranking Marines and officers from across the services. There's also the Marine Corps Brig, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, and the Marine Corps Research Center at Quantico. The FBI, DEA, and the DIA (Defense Intelligence Agency) have training academies on base, and Marine One's helicopters are also stationed here (you know...the folks who fly the president!).

Living off post is popular, as base housing is usually reserved for students attending one of the many schools or training facilities or for international exchange officers. The nearby town of Stafford is a popular choice, as well as Woodbridge or even farther north for the reverse commute. Spend time on our neighborhood guides—especially the commute sections—to get an idea of the area. Those stationed at MCB Quantico often do a follow-on assignment at the Pentagon or another area installation. You'll want to consider that possibility, and the commute implications, if you're thinking of living in Stafford or any other suburb in the Southern NOVA.

 

KEY CONTACTS

 

Lincoln Military Housing

— 13201 Perkins St., Quantico, VA 22134 — PH: (703) 784-2711

Marine Corps Community Services

— 3019 Embry Loop, Quantico, VA 22134 — PH: (703) 432-1901

Marine Corps School Liaison

— Little Hall, 2034 Barnett Ave., 2nd Floor, Quantico, VA 22134 — PH: (703) 784-4729

Note: Most installation services will be available Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. As always, call first to confirm hours and availability of services.

Helpful hint: Contact these offices early in the week during the morning time.