Dobbins ARB
Dobbins ARB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Ninety-two-year-old Retired Air Force Col. Paul Koshewa's blue eyes alight as he shares his being decorated in three wars; WWII, Korea and Vietnam at the Atlanta History Center's Veterans Park, Tuesday. Koshewa spent 13 years of his 30 year military career as a pilot on Dobbins Air Reserve Base...
Dobbins Air Reserve Base (ARB) began as a critical airfield during World War II. Built in 1941 and originally named Rickenbacker Field, it served as a training base for Army Air Corps pilots. The base’s strategic location near Atlanta made it ideal for supporting the war effort and preparing aircrews for combat roles.
During the Cold War, the base expanded to accommodate new aircraft and missions. In 1943, it was renamed Marietta Army Airfield, and in 1950, it became Dobbins Air Force Base to honor a fallen Georgia pilot. The base hosted several key units, including the 94th Bombardment Wing and later the 94th Airlift Wing, which remains its primary unit today.
Dobbins ARB played a vital role in supporting airlift and reserve operations throughout the Korean War, Vietnam War, and into the modern era. The base also supported Lockheed’s adjacent aircraft manufacturing plant, which produced military aircraft like the C-130 Hercules.
Today, Dobbins ARB is a major hub for Air Force Reserve Command operations. It supports joint training, disaster response, and airlift missions. The base is a key economic and community partner in the Atlanta region. Its name has changed several times, from Rickenbacker Field to Marietta Army Airfield, then Dobbins Air Force Base, and finally Dobbins Air Reserve Base in 1992 to reflect its reserve mission.
Namesake
Dobbins' sacrifice symbolized the commitment and bravery of Georgia's airmen during World War II. The base was named in his honor to recognize his service and to inspire future generations of airmen from the region.
Major Units & Training Programs
C-130H3 aircraft are parked on the ramp at 94th Airlift Wing, Dobbins, Air Reserve Base, Ga., 24 April, 2024. The wing operates eight C-130H3 cargo aircraft that support joint service and multi-national airlift missions in the United States and worldwide. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Staff Sgt....
Major Units
94th Airlift Wing
Provides tactical airlift and airdrop support using C-130H Hercules aircraft, supporting both peacetime and contingency operations worldwide. The wing also manages base operations for all tenant units at Dobbins ARB.
22nd Air Force
Oversees Air Force Reserve tactical airlift, aeromedical evacuation, and flight training operations, providing command and control for assigned wings across the United States.
AFRC Headquarters Detachment (Air Force Reserve Command)
Serves as a regional hub for Air Force Reserve Command activities, supporting Reserve personnel and mission readiness throughout the southeastern United States.
Arrival & In-Processing
Tech. Sgt. Doug Crisp, 94th Security Forces Squadron, security forces Airman, checks an officer's ID at the front gate during a simulated exercise at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga, Sept. 22. Dobbins ARB hosted, coordinated, and participated in a base-wide exercise from Sept. 19-25 called United...
Welcome to Dobbins Air Reserve Base! Arriving prepared ensures your check-in and transition go smoothly. Review each step in this guide and gather your documents before you travel. For more details, visit the official Dobbins ARB website.
Dobbins ARB’s main entrance is the Main Gate, located off Cobb Parkway. The Main Gate is open 24/7 for all personnel and vehicles. Have your Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID ready for 100% ID checks at entry. All adults in the vehicle must show valid identification. If you use a state driver’s license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards; non-compliant licenses are not accepted for unescorted access. Be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s security posture. If you need to bring visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center to request a pass. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization for guests. Always follow gate guard instructions for a safe and efficient entry.
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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 (if arranged)
Dobbins ARB offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit’s orderly room or the base Military Personnel Flight. You may also use the online request form linked on the Dobbins ARB Newcomers page.
Report to the Welcome Center, located in Building 838 near the Main Gate. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. In-processing includes stops at Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and required briefings. Bring all required documents to every appointment for faster service.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Main Gate. It operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturday, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and processes guest sponsorships. All visitors must be vetted and sponsored by an authorized base member. Arrive early to allow time for processing, especially during peak hours.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Moving boxes sit in the old home of Capt. Anthony, logistics flight commander for the 432nd SPTS, home in Las Vegas, Nevada, April 28, 2020. Anthony was scheduled to PCS from Creech AFB before COVID-19 response began, and had already started the move when policies were enacted, but the Traffic Management Office was able to assist him in getting his home goods shipped despite the flood of changes taking place. (U.S Air Force courtesy photo)
Arriving at Dobbins ARB starts with receiving your official orders. As soon as you have them, contact the Base Transportation Office to discuss your move options and begin planning. The two main move types are a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, and a Personally Procured Move (PPM), sometimes called a DITY move, where you handle the move yourself and may be reimbursed. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule and track your shipment; this online portal is required for all moves and keeps you updated every step of the way. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover your hotel costs while you search for housing at Dobbins ARB. You may also qualify for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset relocation costs. Review your entitlements early to avoid surprises. Dobbins ARB is a joint-use base near Atlanta, so plan for possible high demand for lodging and moving services, especially during summer. Contact your sponsor to help with in-processing and local tips.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local guidance and in-processing.
- Book temporary lodging at Dobbins ARB or nearby hotels as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all important documents (orders, IDs, medical records) with you during travel.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of high-value items before pack-out.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Plan pet travel in advance; Atlanta is a busy hub and restrictions may apply.
- Schedule your move early to avoid delays, especially during summer peak season.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your PCS move online.
Official rates and allowance information.
Guidance and support for all stages of your move.
Estimate your DLA entitlement.
Base information, newcomer guides, and contacts.