About Cherry Point
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, located in Havelock, North Carolina, is a vital U.S. Marine Corps installation and one of the largest air stations in the Marine Corps.
It serves as a major hub for Marine aviation operations and supports a wide range of missions including aircraft maintenance, flight training, and logistics support.
The base is home to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and hosts a variety of squadrons, providing critical support for both national and international missions.
If you’re stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point or planning a move here, our comprehensive guide has everything you need. From housing options both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything.
In this Article
MCAS Cherry Point Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (252) 466-2811
- Housing Office: +1 (252) 466-2107
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (252) 466-0251
- Family Support Office: +1 (252) 466-4401
- Legal Office: +1 (252) 466-2361
- Address: Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, E St, Havelock, NC 28532, United States
Mission
MCAS Cherry Point serves as a crucial hub for Marine Corps aviation, hosting both fighter and refueling aircraft. The base supports the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, which provides air support for ground forces. Its mission includes facilitating training operations, logistical support, and maintaining readiness for global deployment.
History
- Established: 1941
- Built to provide air support for Marine Corps ground troops during World War II.
- Named after Major General Cherry, a Marine aviator and World War I hero.
- Played a key role during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Key milestones include:
- Deployment of F-4 Phantom aircraft in the 1960s.
- Transition to modern F/A-18 Hornets and AV-8B Harrier aircraft.
- Upgrades to support F-35B Lightning II operations in the 21st century.
Location
- Address: Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, E St, Havelock, NC 28532
- Coordinates: 34.9003° N, 76.8800° W
- Website: MCAS Cherry Point Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; Closed weekends and holidays
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Take I-40 East to US-70 East toward Havelock. Follow signs to MCAS Cherry Point Main Gate. Approx. 2.5 hours.
- From New Bern, NC: Drive southeast on US-70 for about 25 minutes to reach the base.
- From Jacksonville, NC: Take NC-24 East to US-17 North and follow US-70 East to Cherry Point. Approx. 1 hour.
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 7,500
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 6,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 11,000
- Total Population Served: Over 24,500
Base Resources and Information:
Housing Options: Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point offers on-base housing managed by the Marine Corps. Housing options include single-family homes and townhomes designed to accommodate military families of various ranks. For detailed information and to apply for housing, visit the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Cherry Point Housing page or contact them directly at +1 (253) 466-1000. The housing office is located at 2191 A Street, Cherry Point, NC 28533. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Amenities and Services:
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Commissary and Exchange: The base features a commissary and Exchange for grocery shopping and retail needs. The commissary is located at 3190 Pivers Island Road, Cherry Point, NC 28533. It is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on Sundays. The Exchange, located at the same address, operates Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.
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Medical Facilities: MCAS Cherry Point includes the Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point, providing comprehensive healthcare services such as primary care, dental care, and specialty services for active-duty members, retirees, and their families. The clinic is located at 3190 Pivers Island Road, Cherry Point, NC 28533. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For appointments, call +1 (253) 466-1100.
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Recreational Facilities: The base offers a fitness center, swimming pool, and various outdoor areas for sports and fitness activities. The fitness center is located at 3190 Pivers Island Road, Cherry Point, NC 28533. It is open Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The swimming pool is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Education:
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On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at MCAS Cherry Point. However, military families can access local public schools in the Craven County School District.
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Off-Base Schools: Military families living off base can enroll their children in public schools within the Craven County School District. For information on school enrollment and resources, contact the Craven County School District at +1 (252) 514-6300.
Things to Do:
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Outdoor Activities: Nearby attractions include the Croatan National Forest, offering hiking, fishing, and beach activities. Havelock also provides additional parks and recreational opportunities.
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Shopping and Dining: The city of Havelock offers a range of shopping and dining options. For shopping, visit the Havelock Shopping Center, and for dining, explore local favorites like The Flame and The Pizza Inn.
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Cultural Attractions: Havelock and nearby New Bern feature cultural attractions such as the New Bern Historical Society and the North Carolina History Center.
Local Support and Resources:
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Military and Family Support Center: The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Cherry Point offers financial counseling, deployment support, and family advocacy services. It is located at 2191 A Street, Cherry Point, NC 28533. For more information, call +1 (252) 466-7171.
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Legal Services: The base legal office provides legal assistance, including wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning. Contact the legal office at +1 (252) 466-5820. It is located at 2191 A Street, Cherry Point, NC 28533.
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Veteran Services: MCAS Cherry Point is close to several VA facilities offering benefits assistance, healthcare, and veteran resources. Visit the VA Mid-Atlantic Health Care System for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the mission of MCAS Cherry Point? | MCAS Cherry Point supports Marine aviation, hosting the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and facilitating global deployment readiness. |
| What aircraft are stationed at Cherry Point? | The base is home to F/A-18 Hornets, AV-8B Harriers, and KC-130J Hercules aircraft, among others. |
| Does Cherry Point have on-base housing? | Yes, on-base housing is available through Atlantic Marine Corps Communities, offering options for families and single Marines. |
| What medical services are available at Cherry Point? | Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point provides primary care, dental services, and specialty medical care. |
| Are there schools on MCAS Cherry Point? | Yes, DoDEA schools are available for military families, offering quality education for grades K-12. |
| Can civilians visit MCAS Cherry Point? | Civilians can access the base with approval from the Visitor Control Center and proper identification. |
| What recreational activities are available? | The base offers gyms, swimming pools, sports fields, and outdoor activities like fishing and camping. |
| What family support services are provided? | Cherry Point offers financial counseling, relocation assistance, and family readiness programs. |
| What role did Cherry Point play historically? | MCAS Cherry Point has supported Marine aviation since World War II and played pivotal roles in major conflicts like Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. |
| What environmental initiatives are at Cherry Point? | The base is committed to conservation, including efforts to protect local wetlands and maintain training land sustainability. |
