19 Wing Comox
19 Wing Comox Military Base Guide
Military Base History
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19 Wing Comox began operations in 1942 as a Royal Air Force station, built to defend Canada's Pacific coast during World War II. Its original mission focused on anti-submarine patrols and air defense, reflecting the urgent need for coastal protection.
The base's strategic location on Vancouver Island made it a key part of the Allied defense network in the North Pacific. This position allowed rapid response to threats and enhanced coordination with other military installations.
Postwar expansion saw the base transition to Royal Canadian Air Force control, with significant upgrades in the 1950s. During the Cold War, 19 Wing Comox hosted fighter-interceptor squadrons and supported NORAD operations, strengthening North American air defense.
The base also became a hub for search and rescue missions, a role it continues to play today. Its crews regularly respond to emergencies across western Canada, saving lives and supporting disaster relief.
Significant units stationed at 19 Wing Comox have included 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron and 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron. These units have contributed to maritime surveillance, sovereignty patrols, and lifesaving missions across western Canada.
Today, 19 Wing Comox supports a mix of operational, training, and community functions. It remains vital for search and rescue, maritime patrol, and disaster response, serving both national defense and the local community.
The base has retained its original name since its establishment, with no major official name changes recorded. This continuity reflects its enduring role in Canadian military history.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joshua Werho, 55th Combat Communication Squadron radio frequency transmission systems technician, and Senior Airman Jesse Severns, 35th CBCS cyber security technician, check operations on a Ranger 2400 Flyaway Multi-Band Terminal during EXERCISE AGILE BLIZZARD-UNIFIED...
Major Units
407 Long Range Patrol Squadron
Conducts long-range maritime patrol, surveillance, and anti-submarine warfare operations, supporting both national and allied maritime security objectives.
442 Transport and Rescue Squadron
Provides search and rescue (SAR) services and airlift support across western Canada, utilizing fixed-wing and rotary aircraft for rapid response missions.
19 Air Maintenance Squadron
Delivers comprehensive aircraft maintenance, repair, and technical support for all flying units stationed at 19 Wing Comox, ensuring operational readiness.
Training Schools
Search and Rescue Technician (SAR Tech) Training (Phase II)
Overview
Advanced training for Search and Rescue Technicians, focusing on parachuting, survival, and rescue operations in challenging environments.
Course Length
6 months (Phase II)
Who Attends
CAF Search and Rescue Technician candidates
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to 19 Wing Comox! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being prepared helps ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during check-in will help you settle in quickly. For more information and updates, visit the official 19 Wing Comox website.
The main entrance to 19 Wing Comox is the Main Gate, which is clearly marked and serves as the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring access at any time. To enter, present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved government-issued photo identification. All state driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks for all occupants in your vehicle, and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. If you have family members or visitors, they must obtain a visitor pass at the gate by presenting valid identification and stating the purpose of their visit. Sponsors must escort visitors at all times while on base.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (rental agreement or on-base housing assignment)
19 Wing Comox offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals adjust. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit’s orderly room or personnel office as soon as you receive your assignment. Your sponsor will provide local information, answer questions, and help coordinate your arrival.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main administrative area of 19 Wing Comox. The center typically operates Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. Key steps include checking in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as your assigned unit. Most in-processing is completed within 2-3 business days, though some steps may vary based on individual needs.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate at 19 Wing Comox. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0700 to 1700, and provides services such as issuing visitor passes, registering vehicles, and enrolling guests in the DBIDS system if required. Sponsors must accompany guests during the pass process and ensure they follow all base access policies.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Senior Airman Brandie Benoit, with the 72nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, watches as a moving truck is re-weighed at a local weigh station. Inspectors with the Personal Property and Passenger Movement Section have saved over $800,000 by having moving companies re-weigh their vehicles and cargo and comparing it to the initial recorded weight. (Air Force photo by Kelly White)
Arriving at 19 Wing Comox means starting your PCS with official orders. As soon as you receive them, contact the Base Transportation Office to begin your move. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and ship your items, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you move your belongings and may receive reimbursement. Both options require you to register your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which tracks your shipment and provides move updates.
You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days while you secure permanent housing. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps cover relocation costs not reimbursed by other allowances. Make sure to keep all receipts and documents handy. Using DPS is mandatory for most moves; it helps you schedule pickups, file claims, and track your shipment status. For more on entitlements and allowances, check official DoD resources linked below.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Check weight allowances for HHG shipments to avoid excess costs.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and new address.
- Take photos or videos of valuable items before packing.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as you have your orders.
- Contact the Base Transportation Office if you have questions about Canadian customs or unique procedures at 19 Wing Comox.
Important Forms & Links
Register and manage your move, schedule pickups, and track shipments.
Official DoD rates for TLE, DLA, and other entitlements.
PCS planning tools, checklists, and confidential support.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance before your move.