Buckley SFB
Buckley SFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Col. Marcus Jackson, Space Base Delta 2 commander, and Col. Brian Chellgren, 460th Mission Support Group commander, pose for a photo before retiring the 460th MSG colors during an inactivation ceremony on Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., May 23, 2022. The 460th MSG had many achievements over the...
Buckley Space Force Base began as Buckley Field in 1942, established to train bomber crews during World War II. The Army Air Forces built the base on the outskirts of Aurora, Colorado, to support the war effort. Its original mission focused on gunnery and aviation training, quickly making it a vital hub for aircrew preparation.
After WWII, Buckley shifted to a reserve and Air National Guard role, supporting Cold War readiness. The base expanded during the Korean War, adding new facilities for jet aircraft and missile warning systems. Over the decades, Buckley hosted key units like the Colorado Air National Guard and the 460th Space Wing, reflecting its growing importance in aerospace defense.
During the Cold War, Buckley became a center for missile warning and space surveillance. The base played a critical role in national security, operating radar and satellite systems to detect potential threats. Its mission expanded further with the rise of space-based defense technologies.
In 2000, the installation was renamed Buckley Air Force Base, highlighting its active-duty Air Force mission. In June 2021, it became Buckley Space Force Base, aligning with the creation of the U.S. Space Force. Today, Buckley SFB supports missile warning, space surveillance, and intelligence operations, serving as a key employer and community partner in the Denver metro area.
Namesake
Lieutenant Buckley was recognized for his bravery and dedication to duty. The base honors his legacy as a pioneering aviator and local hero, reflecting the strong ties between the installation, the military, and the Colorado community.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Space Force Guardians from Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, U.S. Air Force Reserve Airmen from the 19th Space Operations Squadron at Schriever SFB, Colorado, and 8th Space Warning Squadron, Buckley SFB, Colorado, U.K. Space Command members from Royal Air Force High Wycombe, Royal...
Major Units
460th Space Wing
Responsible for providing missile warning, space surveillance, and communications support for U.S. and allied forces. The wing operates and maintains satellite communications and early warning systems vital to national security.
140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard
Conducts air defense and space missions, operating F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and supporting homeland defense, NORAD, and overseas deployments.
Space Base Delta 2 (formerly Buckley Garrison)
Provides installation support functions for Buckley SFB, including security, civil engineering, communications, and logistics to enable space operations and tenant mission success.
Space Delta 4, Space Operations Command
Operates the nation's ground-based missile warning radars and provides critical missile warning and space domain awareness to U.S. and allied forces.
Training Schools
Space Operations Initial Skills Training (SOIST)
Overview
Prepares new Space Force Guardians and select Airmen for operational assignments in space operations, covering orbital mechanics, satellite operations, and missile warning procedures.
Course Length
3-4 months
Who Attends
Newly assigned Space Force Guardians and Airmen in space operations career fields
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to Buckley SFB! Arriving at a new base can be exciting and a bit overwhelming. Being prepared with the right documents and knowing the access procedures helps ensure a smooth transition. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Buckley SFB website.
Buckley SFB's Main Gate is the primary entry point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate operates 24/7, providing continuous access for authorized individuals. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or a state-issued driver's license compliant with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass from the Visitor Control Center before entry. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization for guests. Always allow extra time for vehicle checks, especially during peak hours.
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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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Housing Assignment or Lease Agreement
Buckley SFB offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight. You can also inquire through your unit's administrative office for guidance on being matched with a sponsor before arrival.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the Main Gate. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to visit your unit for additional in-processing requirements. Most personnel complete the process within 2-3 business days.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and limited hours on weekends. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in here before entering the base.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Maj. James Hodgson, Air Force Reserve Center Headquarters (left), checks several packing crates off of his shipping invoice from the moving company for his permanent change of station relocation to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Arriving at Buckley SFB starts with receiving your official orders. Contact the Base Transportation Office right away to discuss your moving options. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges your move, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move, where you manage the move and may earn reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule, track, and manage your move. DPS is your central hub for paperwork, shipment tracking, and claims.
You're entitled to several PCS benefits. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover short-term lodging while you secure housing near Buckley SFB. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) offsets costs related to setting up a new household. Review your allowances at the DoD Per Diem site and check your orders for details. Buckley SFB is a high-demand assignment, so plan and book services early, especially during summer peak season.
Connect with your sponsor as soon as possible for local insights. Buckley SFB has unique gate hours and security procedures; review the base website for updates before arrival. The Denver area is competitive for housing, so start your search early and keep your sponsor informed of your timeline. Use Military OneSource for relocation support and local resources.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Contact the Transportation Office early to secure your preferred move dates.
- Label boxes by room and take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Check Buckley SFB gate hours and entry requirements before arrival.
- Start your housing search early; Denver’s market is competitive.
- Plan for pets and ensure vaccinations are up to date for base housing.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your PCS move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Find PCS checklists, planning tools, and relocation support.
Official Buckley SFB arrival information and resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Military families stationed at Buckley SFB rely on local public schools, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. The surrounding Aurora area offers a range of educational options through well-regarded public school districts, as well as several charter and private schools. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a key resource for families, providing guidance on school enrollment, special education services, and local district policies. For personalized support, families can contact the Buckley SFB SLO directly for assistance with school transitions and to connect with community resources.
Childcare Options
Buckley SFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC accredited and emphasizes early learning in a safe, nurturing environment.
Buckley SFB Youth Center
The Youth Center offers before and after school care, summer camps, and enrichment clubs for school-age youth. Programs focus on leadership, sports, and STEM activities in a supervised setting.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer in-home care on base, including full-time, part-time, and evening options. This flexible program is inspected and approved by base officials, meeting high safety and quality standards.
Local Schools
Aurora Public Schools (APS)
Aurora Public Schools serves most Buckley SFB families and offers diverse academic programs, including STEM and International Baccalaureate options. APS schools receive mixed ratings on GreatSchools.org, with several schools earning above-average marks for college readiness and student growth.
Cherry Creek School District
Cherry Creek School District is highly rated, known for strong academics, advanced placement courses, and robust extracurricular programs. Many schools in this district receive 8/10 or higher on GreatSchools.org, making it a popular choice for military families.
Aurora Quest K-8
Aurora Quest K-8 is a top-performing magnet school within APS, offering advanced academic programs for gifted students. The school consistently receives high ratings for academic excellence and student support.