NAS JRB New Orleans
NAS JRB New Orleans PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans began as a strategic airfield supporting naval aviation in the Gulf region. Established during World War II, its original mission focused on coastal defense and Navy pilot training. The base’s location near New Orleans provided a vital link for military operations along the Gulf Coast.
Construction and expansion occurred in phases, with major growth during the 1950s and 1960s as Cold War tensions increased. The base added new hangars, runways, and support facilities to accommodate advanced aircraft and growing reserve units. Over time, it became a hub for both Navy and Marine Corps Reserve aviation.
Significant units have included the 159th Fighter Wing of the Louisiana Air National Guard, Navy Reserve aviation squadrons, and Marine Corps aviation detachments. The base also supported Coast Guard air operations, reflecting its joint-service mission.
During major conflicts like the Korean War, Vietnam War, and post-9/11 operations, NAS JRB New Orleans provided critical training, deployment, and logistical support. Its role expanded to include homeland defense and disaster response, especially after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
The base's name changed from "Naval Air Station New Orleans" to "Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans" in 1994, reflecting its multi-service role. Today, it serves as a key reserve training and operational center, supporting both national defense and local emergency response efforts in Louisiana.
Major Units & Training Programs
British Royal Navy Lt. Chris Avison, an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, enters the cockpit of an F-35B Lightning II fighter jet at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, Oct. 25, 2022. VMFAT-501 deployed to NAS...
Major Units
Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic Site New Orleans
Provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul support for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, ensuring operational readiness for assigned squadrons and tenant commands.
Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans Security Detachment
Responsible for the security and force protection of the installation, supporting both Navy and joint tenant units at the base.
Marine Aircraft Group 49 Detachment A (MAG-49 Det A)
Supports Marine Corps Reserve aviation operations, providing personnel and aircraft for training and operational missions.
VR-54 'Revelers' (Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 54)
Operates C-130T Hercules aircraft to provide worldwide air logistics support for the Navy and Department of Defense.
Arrival & In-Processing
NEW ORLEANS——A range of U.S. Army Soldiers—Special Forces, Engineers, Military Police and working dogs—will showcase state-of-the-art technology and equipment, here at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB), for the 2024 New Orleans Air Show, March 23-24. Gates open to the...
Welcome to NAS JRB New Orleans! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being prepared will help make your transition smooth. Review all arrival requirements and check-in steps before your move. For more details, visit the official NAS JRB New Orleans website.
NAS JRB New Orleans is accessible via the Main Gate, located at the primary entrance to the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Be prepared to present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID at all times. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s robust security posture. If you need to sponsor a visitor or family member, they must check in at the Visitor Control Center to obtain a temporary pass. All visitors must be accompanied by a valid sponsor and present proper identification.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member ID Cards
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for all dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical and Dental Records
NAS JRB New Orleans offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or command sponsor coordinator as soon as you receive your orders. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and assist with check-in.
Report to the Welcome Center (Building 46), located near the Main Gate, for in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. In-processing includes stops at Personnel Support Detachment, Finance, Housing, Medical/Dental, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on requirements and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 0600–1800. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsor procedures. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Workers from River City Movers conduct a direct delivery May 9 for Staff Sgt. Cornel Varnado Jr., 194th Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, at Fort Campbell whose belongings were transported overseas from his previous duty station in Germany during a government move. Pictured are Russell McClendon, driver and crew leader, left; Cory Hemmings, driver; and Craig Carter; driver and crew leader.
Arriving at NAS JRB New Orleans starts with receiving your PCS orders. Contact the Base Transportation Office right away to schedule your move and discuss your options. The two main move types are Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your items, and Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Early coordination ensures you get your preferred moving dates and support. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up and track your shipment. This system is essential for managing paperwork and communication throughout your PCS process. Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) help cover hotel costs while you wait for housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps with extra moving expenses. Remember to keep receipts and review your allowances on official sites. NAS JRB New Orleans has unique local resources, so review their welcome guide and reach out to your sponsor for area-specific tips. The base is located in Belle Chasse, just outside New Orleans, so consider local traffic and weather when planning your arrival.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out.
- Contact the Base Housing Office before arrival to discuss options.
- Plan for pets—review local pet policies and vet requirements.
- Monitor hurricane season updates and plan for possible weather delays.
Important Forms & Links
Set up and track your household goods shipment.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guidance and checklists for every stage of your move.
Base-specific information and arrival instructions.