Youngstown Air Reserve Station
Youngstown Air Reserve Station PCS Guide
Military Base History
Col. Chris Sedlacek, 910th Airlift Wing commander, poses for a photo with current and retired Air Force officers after his assumption of command ceremony at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, April 6, 2025. The 910th AW comprises nearly 1,400 Air Force Reserve members capable of deploying...
Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS) began as a World War II-era airfield supporting the U.S. Army Air Forces. Its original mission centered on training and logistics, making it a key support hub for air operations in the northeastern United States.
The base’s location near Youngstown, New York, offered strategic access to the Great Lakes and the Canadian border. This positioning enhanced its value for military operations and cross-border coordination.
Postwar expansion in the late 1940s and early 1950s transformed YARS into a vital reserve and National Guard facility. During the Cold War, the base hosted several air defense and transport units, reflecting its growing importance in continental defense.
YARS underwent significant infrastructure upgrades, including new hangars and runways, to accommodate evolving aircraft and missions. These improvements supported the base’s expanding operational capabilities.
Throughout the late 20th century, YARS supported a variety of Army Guard and Air Force Reserve units. Its personnel participated in major operations, including Korean War mobilizations, humanitarian missions, and the Global War on Terror.
The base has maintained its original name since its establishment, with no major official changes. This continuity reflects its longstanding role in military operations.
Today, YARS serves as a joint-use facility, supporting both Army National Guard and Air Force Reserve operations. It plays a crucial role in regional emergency response, training, and logistics.
The base also contributes to the local economy and community resilience, strengthening ties between military personnel and area residents.
Major Units & Training Programs
Master Sgt. Gilbert Martin, 910th Communications Squadron exercise and planning noncommissioned officer in charge, readies a communications device during the U.S. Army Networks Command High-Frequency Skills Competition at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, July 25, 2024. The competition is an...
Major Units
910th Airlift Wing (with Army Ground Support Elements)
While primarily an Air Force Reserve unit, the 910th Airlift Wing supports Army ground operations by providing tactical airlift, airdrop, and logistical support, often working closely with Army Reserve and National Guard units for joint training and deployment exercises.
Army Reserve 3rd Battalion, 398th Regiment (Basic Combat Training)
This Army Reserve battalion conducts basic combat training and advanced individual training for new Army Reserve soldiers, focusing on foundational soldier skills and readiness for ground operations.
Military Police Detachment (Army Reserve)
This unit provides law enforcement, security, and force protection support for the installation and during deployments, supporting both Air Force and Army operations at the base.
Training Schools
Army Reserve Basic Combat Training (BCT)
Overview
Provides foundational soldier skills, physical fitness, marksmanship, and field training for new Army Reserve enlistees.
Course Length
10 weeks
Who Attends
New Army Reserve recruits
Arrival & In-Processing
From left: Col. Mike Maloney, 910th Airlift Wing commander; Lt. Col. Russ Whitlock, 910th Mission Support Group commander; Ed Smuke, Youngstown Air Reserve Station base civil engineer; Senior Airman J.J. Pinedo-Alva, 910th Airlift Wing Airman of the Year and 910th Security Forces Squadron;...
Welcome to Youngstown Air Reserve Station! Arriving at a new base can be a busy time, but being prepared will help your check-in go smoothly. Review these steps to ensure you meet all requirements and get settled quickly. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Youngstown Air Reserve Station website.
Access Youngstown Air Reserve Station through the Main Gate, located near the base's primary entrance. The Main Gate is typically open 24/7 for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved identification. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks at entry and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base's heightened security posture. To bring visitors or family members onto base, stop at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) near the Main Gate to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization for guests.
-
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 arranging on-base housing)
Youngstown Air Reserve Station offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals transition smoothly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or reach out to the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) for assistance. Your sponsor will provide local information, answer questions, and support you before and after arrival.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the main administrative area of Youngstown Air Reserve Station. In-processing is typically available Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices, as well as your assigned unit. Most in-processing steps are completed within 2–3 business days, depending on your schedule and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate at Youngstown Air Reserve Station. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0700–1600. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering guests in DBIDS, and assisting with sponsor authorization for visitors. All guests must be accompanied by or have prior approval from a base sponsor.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Tressi Werdebach, Army Personal Property Lead Element quality assurance inspector, checks packing quality and inventory items on an inspection. (Courtesy photo)
Youngstown Air Reserve Station welcomes new arrivals with a streamlined PCS process. Once you receive your orders, contact the base Transportation Office to start your move. Decide between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where a moving company packs and ships your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may receive reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover short-term housing costs while you search for a permanent place. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps with upfront costs of relocating. Both entitlements require proper documentation, so keep receipts and orders handy. Youngstown ARS is a smaller installation; lodging options may be limited, so book early and coordinate with your sponsor for support. Always check base-specific arrival instructions and update your contact info in DPS for smooth communication.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you get orders.
- Book temporary lodging early; options are limited near Youngstown ARS.
- Keep all PCS documents, orders, and receipts in a safe, accessible folder.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and communicate with your move coordinator.
- Double-check weight allowances to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before packing.
- Plan for vehicle and pet transport ahead of time.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule, manage, and track your PCS move online.
Official rates for DLA, TLE, and other PCS entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for every PCS stage.
Base-specific arrival info and resources.