AFEES Providence, R.I.

Armed Forces Examining and Entrance Station (AFEES) Providence, R.I., served as a pivotal point for military processing in the northeastern United States during the mid-to-late 20th century. Established to streamline the induction of recruits, the Providence AFEES conducted medical examinations, aptitude testing, and administrative processing for thousands of individuals entering the U.S. Armed Forces, particularly during periods of high enlistment such as the Vietnam War. The station was part of a nationwide network of AFEES facilities that ensured consistent standards for new service members. In the early 1980s, AFEES Providence was re-designated as a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), continuing its mission under a new structure.