Homestead ARB
Homestead ARB PCS Guide
Military Base History
Senior Airman Mayra Hernandez, 70th Aerial Port Squadron, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida, poses with her her husband Aaron and children Seth and Claire at a Yellow Ribbon event in San Diego on February 14, 2025. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is a Department of Defense-wide effort...
Homestead Air Reserve Base sits south of Miami, Florida, and was first established in 1942 as Homestead Army Air Field. Its original mission supported World War II operations, acting as a training and staging area for bombers and fighters. After the war, the base was deactivated, but it reopened in 1955 as Homestead Air Force Base, reflecting the growing Cold War tensions and the need for strategic air defense in South Florida.
During the Cold War, Homestead AFB played a crucial role in continental air defense and rapid response. The base hosted several key units, such as the 31st Fighter Wing and later the 482nd Fighter Wing, which remains the host unit today. In the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, Homestead served as a vital staging and support location for U.S. forces, highlighting its strategic importance.
Hurricane Andrew in 1992 caused catastrophic damage to the installation, leading to a significant reduction in its mission and a period of uncertainty. In 1994, the base was officially redesignated as Homestead Air Reserve Base, reflecting its new primary role as a hub for Air Force Reserve operations. The 482nd Fighter Wing, flying F-16 Fighting Falcons, anchors the base's current mission, which includes:
- Supporting national defense
- Disaster response
- Local community engagement
Today, Homestead ARB continues to serve as a key installation for the Air Force Reserve Command. It supports joint and interagency operations, provides rapid response capabilities for crises in the Caribbean and Latin America, and contributes to the economic and social fabric of South Florida. The base's evolution from a World War II training field to a modern reserve hub highlights its enduring strategic value and adaptability.
Major Units & Training Programs
Homestead ARB, Fla.,(January 28, 2020)—NORAD, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region, Florida and Tennessee Air National Guard units (125th Fighter Wing, Detachment 1 and 134th Air Refueling Wing respectively) alongside interagency partners (Department of Homeland Security, Federal Aviation...
Major Units
482nd Fighter Wing
Provides combat-ready F-16C/D Fighting Falcon aircraft and personnel for Air Combat Command, supporting both national and state requirements. The wing conducts air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, as well as rapid deployment and contingency response missions.
367th Fighter Squadron
A subordinate unit of the 482nd Fighter Wing, responsible for the training and readiness of F-16 pilots, supporting both peacetime and wartime operations.
Arrival & In-Processing
Image Unavailable
Welcome to Homestead ARB! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being prepared makes your transition smoother. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during check-in helps you and your family settle in confidently. For more details, visit the official Homestead ARB website.
Homestead ARB's main entrance is the Homestead ARB Main Gate, located at the north end of the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved DoD credential. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require additional documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s strong security posture. To sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) near the Main Gate. Bring valid photo identification for all guests; the VCC will verify eligibility and issue temporary passes as needed.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates (for dependents)
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical/Dental Records
-
Proof of Housing (if arranged in advance)
Homestead ARB offers a sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) as soon as you receive your assignment. Your sponsor will help coordinate your arrival, answer questions, and guide you through local procedures.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 360, located near the Main Gate for easy access upon arrival. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730–1630. Key steps include checking in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as your gaining unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 days, depending on your needs and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate at Homestead ARB. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and is closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A moving contractor loads a moving truck with a service member's household goods during the permanent change of station peak-season at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. March 7, 2018. Planning an ahead will make for a more successful relocation experience.
Moving to Homestead ARB starts with receiving your official orders. Next, contact the Base Transportation Office to schedule your move and review your options. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you move your belongings and may receive reimbursement. Both options require you to use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at Move.mil to set up and track your move.
You are eligible for key entitlements to help offset costs. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) covers lodging and meals during your transition, up to the allowed number of days. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps with extra costs of relocating. Make sure to keep all receipts and submit claims on time. Using DPS is required for shipment tracking, claims, and communication with your move coordinator.
For Homestead ARB, reach out early to the Transportation Office, as local resources can be limited during peak season. The base is located near Miami, so factor in high traffic and potential weather delays, especially during hurricane season. Check the base newcomer’s guide for area-specific tips and support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Base Transportation Office early to secure your move dates.
- Keep important documents and orders with you during travel.
- Plan for possible weather delays, especially during hurricane season.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and new address.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Check pet regulations and book pet-friendly lodging in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Set up and manage your household goods shipment or PPM.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guidance and checklists for your move.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance (DLA).