Understanding the US Army Student Detachment

The US Army Student Detachment (USSD) serves as a crucial support system for soldiers pursuing further education and training. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the USSD, focusing on its role, responsibilities, and the essential information soldiers need when assigned to a student detachment.

The Role of the US Army Student Detachment

The US Army Student Detachment acts as the home base for Army Soldiers attending various courses. This includes initial entry training and reclassification courses, such as those at the Defense Information School (DINFOS). The detachment provides administrative, logistical, and personnel support, ensuring soldiers can focus on their studies and training. One example of a USSD is located at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, supporting officers attending the Command and General Staff Officer Course (CGSOC).

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Orders

A key aspect of assignment to a US Army Student Detachment is the requirement for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders. This means soldiers are officially relocating to the detachment's location for the duration of their training.

Housing Arrangements

Housing arrangements differ based on whether a soldier is authorized to travel with dependents:

Soldiers authorized to travel with dependents: These soldiers receive a Basic Housing Allowance (BAH) and are responsible for securing housing either on or off post.
Single Soldiers without dependents: These soldiers are not authorized BAH and will be provided a barracks room.

It is important to note that for certain locations, such as Fort Meade, Army students are initially required to stay at Candlewood Suites, an IHG hotel located on post. If on-post lodging is full, the staff will assist in securing reservations at a hotel off post. It is recommended to contact the hotel at least 10 days prior to the course start date to confirm reservations.

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Fort Leavenworth Specific Information

For soldiers relocating to Fort Leavenworth for the Command and General Staff Officer Course (CGSOC), several key details are essential for a smooth transition.

Command and General Staff Officer Course (CGSOC)

CGSOC is a ten-month resident course designed to develop field grade General Staff Officers. The course focuses on warfighting, history, leadership, and decision-making, preparing officers to execute multi-domain unified land operations in contested environments. The course is taught in three phases:

Common Core: Focuses on foundational knowledge and skills.
Advanced Operations Course: Delves into complex operational planning and execution.
Elective Phase: Allows students to specialize in areas of interest.

It is highly recommended that students bring their own devices and utilize the Army Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) program.

Reporting Procedures at Fort Leavenworth

Upon arrival at Fort Leavenworth, soldiers should proceed to the Lewis and Clark building and follow the signs to the US Student Detachment (USSD) on the third floor. Student parking is located in the far South parking lot.

Early Reporting

US Army Officers requesting to report early (prior to June 30th) must obtain written permission to sign into CGSOC before their scheduled reporting date. Early reporting is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and requires coordination with the officer's branch manager and authorization from the USSD Commander. Report dates are specified on the IPPS-A PCS order for CGSOC.

Housing at Fort Leavenworth

Housing assignments are determined in advance, not on a first-come, first-served basis. Soldiers should arrive according to their scheduled date or the date provided by the on-post housing office if planning to live on post. Those living off-post should arrive in accordance with their orders and lease agreement.

To be part of the Automated Student Housing Assignment Run, applications must be submitted by May 12, 2025. Applications received after this date will be placed on a waitlist.

Medical Readiness

All US Army Officers attending CGSOC at Fort Leavenworth must be Fully Medically Ready (FMR) before starting the course. This ensures maximum availability for class participation. A new annual Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) must be completed after April 15, 2025.

Online Registration and Security Clearance

Soldiers must complete the online Student Record Form (Online Student Registration) to provide prerequisite information and facilitate their transition to Fort Leavenworth. Access to the CGSOC online registration requires an AKO login. A current Secret security clearance is required for the course. Students should arrive with SIPRNET PKI tokens (aka NSS Tokens or SIPR Cards) to access Army SIPRNET computers, as some CGSOC courses require their use. Obtaining a SIPRNET token can take several months, so soldiers should coordinate with their G6/S6 or local Network Enterprise Center (NEC) before departing their current duty station.

Uniform Requirements

Students need to arrive with a full complement of required uniforms, including PT gear, dress uniforms (including Class B), and OCP uniforms. Appropriate apparel for cold weather is also necessary, especially Class B winter items due to limited availability at Fort Leavenworth.

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Physical Fitness Standards

Maintaining physical fitness is a crucial aspect of military readiness, and student detachments often have specific requirements.

All Army Active Duty and Active Guard Reserve soldiers will take a record ACFT IAW TRADOC policy.
Army National Guard and Army Reserve students are required to take a diagnostic ACFT during the course.

Public Affairs Considerations

Per Army policy, only OPSEC II certified personnel can manage official social media, release information to the public, and fully complete the duties required as an effective Army PAO.

Important Considerations

Inquiries: Limit inquiries to questions related to the pending permanent change of station and save academic questions until after arrival.
Unforeseen Events: In the event of an unforeseen life-changing event, early or late reporting requires coordination with the soldier's branch manager at HRC.

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