Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station
Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station PCS Guide
Military Base History
Brig. Gen. Melissa Coburn, the 22nd Air Force commander, left, and Chief Master Sgt. Chin Cox, the 22nd Air Force command chief, second-to-left, walk aboard a detached training hull of a C-130 Hercules during their visit at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station, Minnesota, November 4,...
Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station began as a support facility for the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. The original mission focused on training and logistics, helping expand air power in the Upper Midwest. Its location next to Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport offered strategic access to transportation and resources.
Postwar years brought significant expansion as the base became a hub for Air Force Reserve operations. The 934th Airlift Wing and other reserve units established their presence, and during the Cold War, the installation supported airlift and mobility missions.
Throughout its history, the station has adapted to changing military needs. The base supported operations during the Korean War and Vietnam War, and in recent decades, it has provided airlift support for overseas deployments and humanitarian missions.
The installation has maintained its name as Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station since its designation as a reserve facility. Today, it remains a critical asset for the Air Force Reserve Command, supporting national defense and local emergency response efforts in Minnesota and the surrounding region.
Major Units & Training Programs
Col. Samuel Kraemer, the new 934th Airlift Wing commander, family watches Kraemer give an assumption of command speech at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station, Minnesota, Nov. 5, 2023. Before assuming the command of the 934 AW, Kraemer was the commander 934th Operations Group. (U.S. Air...
Major Units
934th Airlift Wing
Provides combat-ready airlift and support forces capable of deploying worldwide to meet Air Mobility Command and Air Force Reserve Command requirements. The unit operates C-130H Hercules aircraft for tactical airlift missions.
27th Aerial Port Squadron
Responsible for processing cargo and personnel for airlift, loading and unloading aircraft, and ensuring the rapid movement of resources during deployments and contingencies.
Arrival & In-Processing
Tech Sgt. Jacob Larson, 934th Security Forces Squadron assistant flight sergeant, poses for a picture at Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station on Feb. 27, 2023. Larson and other SFS defenders stopped a gate runner from entering the base in Jan. 2022.
Welcome to Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Review these steps before arrival to avoid delays and make your check-in process efficient. For additional resources and updates, visit the official base website.
The main entrance to Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station is typically accessed via the Main Gate, which is clearly marked as you approach the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or DoD-issued credential. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for base access. Expect 100% ID checks and possible random vehicle inspections to maintain security. If you need to sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the gate or Visitor Control Center to request a temporary pass. All visitors must be vetted and must present approved identification. Security is a top priority—follow all posted instructions and cooperate with gate personnel.
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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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Proof of Housing (lease or contract, if available)
Most newcomers are assigned a sponsor through their gaining unit. Contact your unit's orderly room or the base Military Personnel Flight to request a sponsor. You may also inquire via the base's newcomer resources on the official website.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, located near the Main Gate for easy access upon arrival. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. In-processing typically takes 2-3 business days, depending on your needs and unit requirements. Arrive early and bring all required documents to streamline your experience.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate for convenient access. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0700 to 1600. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with guest sponsorship. Ensure your guests bring valid identification and allow extra time for processing, especially during peak hours.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Senior Airman Brandie Benoit, with the 72nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, watches as a moving truck is re-weighed at a local weigh station. Inspectors with the Personal Property and Passenger Movement Section have saved over $800,000 by having moving companies re-weigh their vehicles and cargo and comparing it to the initial recorded weight. (Air Force photo by Kelly White)
A Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station starts with receiving official orders. Once you have orders, contact the Base Transportation Office to schedule your move and review your entitlements. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up either a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY). Both move types are supported at this installation, but HHG is most common for full-service moves, while PPM allows for more control and possible reimbursement if you do the work yourself.
You may be eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover short-term stays while you secure housing, as well as a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset moving costs. Make sure you keep all receipts and documentation for reimbursement. DPS is your main tool for tracking shipments, scheduling pickups, and communicating with movers. For local info, check the base newcomer’s guide and reach out to your sponsor for updates on housing, in-processing, and local resources.
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 schedule your move.
- Keep all important documents (orders, IDs, receipts) with you during transit.
- Take photos and videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Label boxes by room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Plan for Minnesota’s winter weather—pack cold-weather gear in your essentials.
- Secure pet boarding or housing in advance, especially during summer PCS season.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Official DoD travel and allowance information.
Guidance and tools for every step of your move.
Estimate your DLA entitlement.
Base-specific info for incoming personnel.