Joint Base Charleston
Joint Base Charleston PCS Guide
Military Base History
A C-47 Skytrain aircraft flies during the Charleston Airshow at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, April 20, 2024. The C-47 served as the main cargo plane of allied forces throughout WWII and it best known for its use on D-Day, where it dropped thousands of paratroopers into occupied France...
Joint Base Charleston began as Charleston Army Airfield, activated in 1941 to support World War II operations. Its original mission focused on anti-submarine patrols and training aircrews, reflecting the urgent needs of the era.
The base’s strategic location near the Atlantic coast made it vital for protecting shipping lanes and supporting the war effort. This proximity enabled rapid response to threats and ensured safer passage for Allied vessels.
Postwar expansion transformed the installation. In 1952, it was renamed Charleston Air Force Base and became a hub for Military Air Transport Service (MATS), later Military Airlift Command (MAC).
The base hosted C-124 Globemaster and C-141 Starlifter aircraft, playing a key role during the Cold War. It supported global airlift missions and rapid deployment capabilities, enhancing the nation’s military reach.
Major units like the 437th Airlift Wing and 315th Airlift Wing have operated from Charleston, providing critical air mobility for conflicts including Vietnam, Desert Storm, and post-9/11 operations.
The base’s infrastructure grew to accommodate new aircraft, such as the C-17 Globemaster III. This expansion further cemented its strategic value and ability to support evolving military needs.
In 2010, the installation became Joint Base Charleston following the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. This merger combined Charleston Air Force Base with Naval Support Activity Charleston.
Today, the base supports over 60 Department of Defense and federal agencies. It serves as a key logistics, mobility, and training hub for the region and the nation.
Major Units & Training Programs
A C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft sits on the flightline at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, May 6, 2025. The aircraft is capable of rapidly delivering troops and of cargo to main operating locations around the globe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. James E. Harris III)
Major Units
437th Airlift Wing
Provides rapid global mobility and sustainment for America's armed forces by operating and maintaining C-17 Globemaster III aircraft for airlift missions worldwide.
315th Airlift Wing (Air Force Reserve)
Augments active-duty airlift capabilities by providing combat-ready C-17 aircrews and support personnel for global mobility and humanitarian missions.
628th Air Base Wing
Delivers installation support to over 60 DoD and federal agencies, ensuring mission readiness for all tenant units at Joint Base Charleston.
Training Schools
C-17 Globemaster III Aircrew Training
Overview
Provides initial and recurrent training for pilots and loadmasters assigned to the C-17, covering aircraft systems, flight procedures, and mission execution.
Course Length
Several weeks, varying by specialty
Who Attends
Air Force pilots and loadmasters assigned to C-17 units
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kayelynn Brown, 628th Security Forces Squadron installation entry controller, works the main gate at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Jan. 23, 2025. Security Forces defenders train to perform their duties effectively, even in the harshest weather conditions,...
Welcome to Joint Base Charleston, your new home for the next chapter of your military journey. Preparing ahead ensures a smooth arrival and quick access to base services. Review these steps carefully to make your check-in process efficient and stress-free. For more details, visit the official Joint Base Charleston website.
The primary entrance for Joint Base Charleston is the Dorchester Road Main Gate. This gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-approved credential. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary approved form. Expect 100% ID checks at all entry points. Security forces conduct random vehicle inspections to maintain a secure environment. Family members and visitors need a pass, which you can obtain at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) just outside the Main Gate. Sponsors must be present or submit pre-approval paperwork for guest access.
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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 and Dental Records
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Housing Assignment or Application Documents
Joint Base Charleston offers a robust sponsor program to help you transition smoothly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the base's Military & Family Readiness Center. You can also use the online sponsor request form linked from the base's newcomer resources page. Your sponsor will provide local guidance and answer arrival questions.
Report to the Welcome Center (Bldg 500) upon arrival for in-processing. The center is near the Main Gate for easy access. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0730–1630. During in-processing, you'll visit Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. The process typically takes 2–3 business days, depending on your specific needs and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Dorchester Road Main Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturday, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and assists with guest sponsorship procedures. All guests must be vetted and sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Maj. James Hodgson, Air Force Reserve Headquarters (left), receives a briefing and relocation check sheet from Personal Property manager Staff Sgt. Brent Rochette, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Traffic Management Office at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Arriving at Joint Base Charleston starts with receiving your official orders. Next, contact the Base Transportation Office to begin your move planning. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Joint Base Charleston supports both options, but early coordination is key to avoid peak season delays. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule your move, track shipments, and manage claims. DPS is your main tool for move management—register as soon as you have orders. Service members are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 10 days at this CONUS base to offset hotel costs while house-hunting or waiting for quarters. You may also qualify for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help cover relocation expenses. Check current rates and entitlements on official DoD sites before you move. For more information, visit the Joint Base Charleston newcomer’s page and connect with your sponsor early to ease your transition.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early, especially during summer PCS season.
- Keep all important documents (orders, IDs, medical records) with you during travel.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and upload required forms.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out for claims.
- If traveling with pets, reserve pet-friendly lodging and review base pet policies in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move online.
Official rates for TLE, DLA, and other entitlements.
Guidance and checklists for all PCS stages.
Base-specific arrival info and resources.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Joint Base Charleston, SC 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 Joint Base Charleston, SC, 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 Charleston Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.