JBER
JBER PCS Guide
Military Base History
A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 3rd Wing conducts aerial practices at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, March 28. The F-22 is an American twin-engine, all-weather, supersonic stealth fighter aircraft and provides power projection across the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air...
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) was created to support U.S. military operations in Alaska. The area originally included two separate installations: Elmendorf Field and Fort Richardson. Elmendorf Field, later known as Elmendorf Air Force Base, was activated in 1940 to provide air defense for Alaska, while Fort Richardson was established the same year as an Army post for ground operations.
World War II brought rapid expansion to both bases. Elmendorf became a key hub for air operations during the Aleutian Campaign, and Fort Richardson supported Army units defending Alaska. During the Cold War, Elmendorf AFB played a vital role in early warning and air defense against potential Soviet threats, hosting fighter-interceptor squadrons and radar units.
In 2010, a major transformation occurred when Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson merged to form Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER). This merger was part of the Department of Defense's Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) initiative. The consolidation improved efficiency and unified support functions for both Air Force and Army missions.
Today, JBER remains a strategic installation for U.S. defense in the Arctic and Pacific. The base hosts the 673d Air Base Wing, the 3rd Wing, and the 11th Airborne Division, among other units. JBER supports air sovereignty, rapid deployment, and homeland defense, while also serving as a key economic and community partner in Anchorage.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 3rd Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, team up with the French Army New Caledonia to load an Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma Helicopter from a C-17 Globemaster III during exercise Croix du Sud at La Tontouta International in Noumea, New Caledonia,...
Major Units
3rd Wing
The 3rd Wing provides air dominance, global mobility, and command and control for combat operations, employing F-22 Raptors and C-17 Globemaster IIIs. It supports both national defense and rapid deployment missions in the Pacific and Arctic regions.
176th Wing (Alaska Air National Guard)
The 176th Wing delivers tactical airlift, search and rescue, and air refueling capabilities using HC-130J, HH-60G, and C-17 aircraft. It plays a critical role in homeland defense, disaster response, and Arctic operations.
673d Air Base Wing
The 673d Air Base Wing provides installation support for Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, including infrastructure, security, medical services, and logistics for over 40,000 personnel.
Training Schools
Arctic Survival School (SERE Training)
Overview
Provides specialized survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) training focused on Arctic environments to prepare aircrew and personnel for operations in extreme cold and remote conditions.
Course Length
2 weeks
Who Attends
Aircrew members and select personnel assigned to Arctic missions
Arrival & In-Processing
Construction on the Muldoon Gate continues on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug, 21, 2024. Additions to the gate include a canopy designed to protect gate personnel from inclement weather conditions, and raised speed tables to improve safety and quality of life for security forces,...
Welcome to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER)! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Review these steps carefully to streamline your check-in and base access. For additional details, visit the official JBER website.
JBER's primary entry points are the Richardson Gate and Boniface Gate. The Boniface Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. The Richardson Gate is open daily but may have reduced hours on weekends and holidays. All occupants must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credentials at the gate. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of JBER's robust security posture. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center outside the main gate to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member ID Cards (if applicable)
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Marriage Certificate
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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 and Dental Records
JBER offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or personnel office to request a sponsor before your arrival. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the Boniface Gate. The center operates Monday through Friday, 0730–1630. Plan to check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices during your first visit. Some steps, such as unit check-in, may require additional appointments. Most personnel complete the process within 2–3 business days.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Boniface Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturdays, 0800–1600. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering vehicles in DBIDS, and assisting with guest sponsorship. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied or sponsored by a DoD ID cardholder.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Being in the military can be stressful, especially when moving to a new base. The Travel Management Office is here to help when it comes to packing, shipping and delivering your personal property from one base to another. The TMO can be reached at (325) 696-2029. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylee Thomas)
Arriving at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) starts with receiving your PCS orders. Once you have orders, contact your losing and gaining base Transportation Offices to schedule your move. Most personnel use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to arrange Household Goods (HHG) shipments or choose a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY) for more control. Both options have clear steps in DPS, and you can track your shipment status online. You may qualify for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover lodging costs while you secure housing, and DLA helps offset moving expenses. Always save receipts for reimbursement. JBER’s unique location in Alaska means planning ahead is key, especially for shipping vehicles and pets. Weather and distance can impact transit times, so start early and check base-specific guidance for seasonal considerations. Use official resources to stay updated and reach out to the JBER sponsor program for local support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local insights and support.
- Start your HHG or PPM process in DPS as soon as you have orders.
- Keep important documents and valuables with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Plan for Alaska’s unique climate—ship winter gear separately if needed.
- Contact the JBER pet quarantine office early if bringing pets.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find current rates for TLE, DLA, and other entitlements.
Guidance and checklists for every stage of your PCS.
Essential information for in-processing and settling at JBER.
Schools & Childcare
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The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a key resource for military families navigating school enrollment, special education, and transition support. The SLO connects families with local schools, answers questions about the registration process, and helps address unique needs. Families can contact the JBER SLO through the base website or Military & Family Readiness Center for personalized assistance.
Childcare Options
JBER Child Development Center (CDC)
JBER School Age Center (SAC)
JBER Youth Center
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
Local Schools
Anchorage School District
Orion Elementary School
Romig Middle School
West Anchorage High School
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
JB Elmendorf-Richardson, AK Commercial DSN Email Webpage (907) 552-8588/4616 (317) 552-8588/4616 SpaceA5@us.af.milJoint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Passenger Terminal Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating, family-friendly space.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet available in the terminal.
Snack Bar/Vending Machines
Light snacks and beverages for purchase.
Children’s Play Area
Designated space for kids to play while waiting.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from JB Elmendorf-Richardson, AK Commercial DSN Email Webpage (907) 552-8588/4616 (317) 552-8588/4616 SpaceA5@us.af.milJoint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Passenger Terminal, 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.
Official AMC information may be available here: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Travis AFB, California
Popular route for connections to CONUS; be flexible with travel dates.
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
High demand in summer and holidays; arrive early to increase chances.
Yokota AB, Japan
Bring valid passports/visas for all travelers; check entry requirements.