Cannon AFB
Cannon AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Civic leaders speak with members of the STARBASE program during a civic leader tour at Joint Base San Antonio Kelly Field, Texas, Nov. 29, 2023. STARBASE Kelly serves historically underrepresented students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, encouraging them to explore STEM as...
Cannon Air Force Base began as a training site during World War II. Established in 1942 as Clovis Army Air Field, its original mission was to train bomber and fighter crews for the war effort. The base’s location in eastern New Mexico offered wide-open airspace, ideal for flight training and gunnery practice.
After the war, the base experienced several periods of deactivation and reactivation. In the early Cold War, the Air Force reactivated and renamed the base as Clovis Air Force Base in 1947. In 1957, it became Cannon Air Force Base to honor General John K. Cannon.
The base expanded its infrastructure to support new aircraft and missions, including tactical fighter operations. Modernization allowed Cannon AFB to adapt to evolving military needs and technologies.
Throughout the Cold War, Cannon AFB hosted several fighter wings, most notably the 27th Fighter Wing. The base played a key role in tactical air support and readiness, supporting deployments during the Vietnam War and later conflicts.
Today, Cannon AFB is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing. Its mission focuses on special operations, including precision strike, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
The base remains a vital part of the local economy and the U.S. Air Force’s global reach. Cannon AFB continues to support national defense while contributing to the community in eastern New Mexico.
Namesake
Cannon was known for his leadership in developing tactical air support and training programs. His legacy influenced modern air operations and the evolution of the Air Force's tactical doctrine.
Major Units & Training Programs
Students from local schools practice training exercises with security forces airmen during STEM day at Cannon AFB, New Mexico, April 8, 2025. The Air Commandos taught students self-defense and showed how self-defense plays a part in the 27th Special Operations Wing's mission.
Major Units
27th Special Operations Wing
The 27th Special Operations Wing executes specialized airpower missions, including precision strike, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and specialized mobility to support global special operations. It operates a variety of aircraft tailored for unconventional warfare and rapid response.
12th Special Operations Squadron
The 12th Special Operations Squadron provides remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) operations, supporting global intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions for special operations forces.
56th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron
The 56th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron delivers critical intelligence analysis and targeting support to enhance the effectiveness of special operations missions worldwide.
Training Schools
Special Operations Aircraft Initial Qualification Training
Overview
This program provides aircrew members with initial qualification in special operations aircraft, focusing on mission planning, tactics, and aircraft-specific systems.
Course Length
Several weeks (varies by airframe)
Who Attends
Aircrew assigned to special operations aircraft
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cody Truman, Airman 1st Class Graham Bromwell, and Military Working Dog Atos, 27th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, work the Portales Gate at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., Jan. 18, 2024. The Defenders of the 27 SOSFS are one of the many specialties that...
Welcome to Cannon AFB! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during in-processing helps you get settled quickly. For more details, visit the official Cannon AFB website.
Cannon AFB's main entrance is the Main Gate, located off US Highway 60/84. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for all inbound and outbound traffic. When you arrive, expect a 100% ID check for all adults. Acceptable IDs include your Military ID, CAC, or a state driver’s license compliant with the REAL ID Act. If your state ID is not REAL ID compliant, bring a secondary form of identification. Security Forces conduct random vehicle inspections—have your registration, insurance, and license ready. For family members or visitors, stop at the gate and request a temporary pass; sponsors must be present or submit prior authorization. The base maintains a high security posture, so allow extra time for checks, especially during heightened security periods.
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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 (lease or contract, if available)
Cannon AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help you settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or use the Air Force's online sponsor request form. Your sponsor can answer questions, arrange base access, and assist with in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 600, near the Main Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit Check-in. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding federal holidays. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and processes guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be vetted and sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Jerry Leama, Barry Van Lines mover, carries a box of household goods onto a moving truck on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, July 16, 2021. Dover AFB and the Air Force Aid Society provide 20 hours of free permanent change of station care for each child upon arrival to and departure from their duty stations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicole Leidholm)
When you receive PCS orders to Cannon AFB, start by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Decide early if you’ll move your household goods (HHG) with a government-contracted mover or choose a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move. Log into the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up your move, track shipments, and manage paperwork. DPS is your central hub for all move-related actions and updates.
You may qualify for key entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to help cover short-term lodging, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Use the DoD’s online tools to estimate your allowances. Cannon AFB’s remote location means planning ahead is vital—coordinate with your sponsor and the Transportation Office to avoid delays, especially during peak season. Check for base-specific arrival instructions and local lodging availability before you travel.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as possible.
- Contact the TMO early to secure your preferred moving dates.
- Keep PCS orders, IDs, and essential documents with you during travel.
- Understand your HHG weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes by room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Take photos of valuable items before packing.
- Book Cannon AFB lodging early—options are limited, especially in summer.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guidance and support for all stages of your move.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for your move.
Base-specific arrival and newcomer resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC)
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
Youth Center School-Age Care
Local Schools
Clovis Municipal Schools
Texico Municipal Schools
Clovis Christian School
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Cannon AFB, NM Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Cannon AFB, NM, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.