West Point: Welcome to America's First Military Academy

Welcome to the United States Military Academy at West Point, or The Point, a place where America's future leaders are shaped, and history stands around every corner. Founded first as a Revolutionary War fort in 1778, and later designated by Thomas Jefferson as the nation's original military academy, West Point is the oldest commissioning source in the United States. Its iconic stone architecture and breathtaking Hudson Valley views make it one of the most recognized campuses in the world. More than 4,200 cadets call West Point home, supported by 1,200 active duty soldiers, their families, and thousands of civilian staff. Whether you're joining the Corps or PCSing to the garrison, you're stepping into a community built on discipline, tradition, and service. From the Visitor Control Center in Deere's office, to the commissary, PX, and award-winning schools, everything here is designed to help you settle in smoothly. Nearby towns like Highland Falls, Peekskill, and Garrison offer small-town charm just minutes from post. And when you're off duty, the Hudson Valley delivers hiking, history, fall foliage, and even day trips to New York City. At West Point, you're not just arriving in a duty station, you're joining a legacy more than two centuries in the making. Welcome to the Point.