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Joint Base Lewis-McChord — Transition Guide

Everything you need to plan your transition from Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, WA. Local job market, VA resources, and WA veteran benefits.

ACTIVE DUTY

40,000

TOTAL COMMUNITY

110,000

MAJOR UNITS

6

TAP OFFICE

Yes

Major Units at Joint Base Lewis-McChord

I Corps
2nd Infantry Division (Rear)
7th Infantry Division
62nd Airlift Wing (C-17 Globemaster III)
1st Special Forces Group (Airborne)
Madigan Army Medical Center

Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Job Market

The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA metro area is the local job market for veterans transitioning from Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Many veterans choose to stay in the area due to established community ties.

Transition Tips

  • 1.Start your job search 6-12 months before separation
  • 2.Attend Joint Base Lewis-McChord's TAP workshops and career fairs
  • 3.Connect with local veteran employment organizations
  • 4.Research Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA cost of living and salary ranges

Washington Resources

  • 16 VA facilities in Washington
  • 530K veterans in Washington
  • State veteran benefits and tax exemptions
View Washington Benefits →

VA Claims & Disability

Start your VA disability claim before or after separating from Joint Base Lewis-McChord. File a Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claim 90-180 days before separation for faster processing.

Plan Your Transition from Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Use our free toolkit to translate your MOS, build your civilian resume, track VA claims, and explore Washington benefits — all in one place.

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