LITTLE ROCK AFB
AIR FORCE
Jacksonville, AR
United States
LITTLE ROCK AFB
AIR FORCE
Jacksonville, AR
United States
Little Rock AFB
Home of C-130 Combat Airlift
Base Essentials
Welcome to Little Rock Air Force Base, home of the 19th Airlift Wing and the heart of the Air Force’s C-130 tactical airlift community. Located in Jacksonville, Arkansas, just northeast of Little Rock, the installation supports rapid global mobility, combat airlift, humanitarian missions, and training for aircrews from across the Department of Defense and partner nations. The base’s concentration of C-130 aircraft, operations, and training has earned it the nickname “Herk Nation.”
Base Details
Type
Air Force Base
Branch
AIR FORCE
Command
AMC
Status
Active
Est.
October 9, 1955
Acres
6,217
Active Duty
7,000
Civilian
1,300
Population
13,900
Economic Impact
$1.38 billion
Little Rock AFB History
Named AfterThe installation is named for the nearby city of Little Rock, Arkansas.
Little Rock Air Force Base near Jacksonville, Arkansas, was established in 1955 as a Strategic Air Command missile and bomber base. Today it is home to the 19th Airlift Wing, the largest C-130 unit in the Air Force, and the 314th Airlift Wing, which conducts all Air Force C-130 formal flight training. The base is the center of gravity for C-130 Hercules operations across the force and continues to be essential as the Air Force sustains and modernizes its tactical airlift fleet.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
19th Airlift Wing
19th AW
Wing
19th AW
Wing
314th Airlift Wing
314th AW
Wing
314th AW
Wing
189th Airlift Wing
189th AW
Wing
189th AW
Wing
913th Airlift Group
913th AG
Group
913th AG
Group
34th Combat Training Squadron
34th CTS
Squadron
34th CTS
Squadron
U.S. Air Force Weapons School, C-130 Division
USAFWS C-130 Division
Division
USAFWS C-130 Division
Division
Historic Timeline
1953
Construction Begins
1955
Strategic Air Command
1960
Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Mission
1971
The 314th Tactical Airlift Wing
1997
C-130 Aircrew Training Mission
2005
Hurricane Katrina
2008
19th Airlift Wing
2015
Herk Nation
2025
The 19th Operations Group
—
View Key Moments
(9)
1953
Construction Begins
1951–1953: Central Arkansas community leaders raised nearly $1 million to purchase and donate land for a new Air Force installation near Jacksonville. Construction began on November 6, 1953, after the Air Force announced plans for a $31 million jet-bomber base.
1955
Strategic Air Command
1954–1955: The installation was assigned to Strategic Air Command. The 70th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing activated in January 1955, followed by the 384th Bombardment Wing in August. The base opened to air traffic on September 10, 1955, and was formally dedicated on October 9, 1955.
1960
Titan II Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Mission
1960s: Little Rock AFB expanded beyond bomber and reconnaissance operations to support the Titan II intercontinental ballistic missile mission. Eighteen missile sites across central Arkansas were operational and on alert by January 1964.
1971
The 314th Tactical Airlift Wing
The 314th Tactical Airlift Wing relocated to Little Rock AFB and became the installation’s host wing, helping establish the base as a major center for C-130 operations and training.
1997
C-130 Aircrew Training Mission
The 314th Airlift Wing shifted its primary emphasis toward the C-130 aircrew training mission, strengthening Little Rock AFB’s role as the Air Force’s tactical-airlift training center.
2005
Hurricane Katrina
Following Hurricane Katrina, Little Rock AFB served as an important humanitarian-assistance hub. The base received and redistributed international relief supplies and conducted dozens of airlift sorties.
2008
19th Airlift Wing
Base Realignment and Closure actions significantly reorganized the installation. The newly activated 19th Airlift Wing became the host wing on October 1, while the 314th Airlift Wing remained as a tenant organization focused primarily on C-130 training.
2015
Herk Nation
Little Rock AFB has developed into the Air Force’s principal C-130 training and operational center, commonly known as “Herk Nation.” It supports active-duty, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and training organizations operating multiple versions of the C-130 Hercules.
2025
The 19th Operations Group
2025–2026: The 19th Operations Group and 19th Maintenance Group were briefly inactivated in September 2025 as part of an experimental wing-level organizational structure. Both groups were reactivated on January 23, 2026, returning the wing to its traditional group structure to support readiness and commander-led operations.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for Little Rock AFB.
Little Rock AFB Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for Little Rock AFB.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Visitor Access
What you need to know to get on Little Rock AFB.
REAL ID Required
Visitor Pass Required
Sponsor Required
Trusted Traveler Suspended
How are you entering the base?
I have a DoD ID / CAC
Active duty, civilian employee, retiree, or dependent.
I'm visiting someone
Sponsored visit — a DoD ID holder will vouch for you.
I need a day pass
No sponsor — process through the Visitor Control Center.
Commercial / Delivery
Truck drivers, contractors, and vendors.
Quick summary
Visitors need a REAL ID or other federally accepted ID and may undergo a background check. The Trusted Traveler Program is suspended. Foreign nationals need advance coordination. Confirm requirements with the VCC at 501-987-3425.
Guest policy
When an escort is required, the sponsor must remain with the guest and maintain control of them while on the installation. A separate visitor pass is required when the sponsor will not remain with the visitor. The base does not publicly state a general maximum number of guests, but Security Forces may impose limits based on the event, security conditions, vehicle capacity or the sponsor’s authorization.
Visitors may enter only the locations necessary for their approved purpose. They may not enter controlled, restricted or mission-essential areas, such as flight-line, maintenance, weapons, communications or other secured facilities, without specific authorization and the required credentials or escort. Veterans and VA caregivers enrolled for installation access are not authorized to sponsor or escort guests; their guests must complete the visitor-access process separately.
Parking information
Visitors should first park at the Visitor Control Center, located outside the Vandenberg Main Gate. The parking lot is accessed from Marshall Road at the traffic light immediately outside the gate. Visitors can obtain their installation pass there before proceeding onto the base.
Once admitted, visitors should park only in marked spaces at their approved destination and follow all posted signs. Spaces reserved for commanders, government vehicles, handicapped placards, emergency vehicles or specifically designated personnel should not be used without authorization. Parking along curbs, fire lanes, road shoulders, restricted areas or near flight-line and mission facilities is prohibited unless specifically directed.
Latest News
Our coverage, local headlines, and upcoming events around Little Rock AFB.
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PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to Little Rock AFB.
Welcome center hours and contact details can change. We recommend confirming before you visit or call.
Welcome Center
Phone
501-987-5917Hours
In-processing walk-in hours: 0830–1430, Tuesday and Thursday. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday are by appointment only.
Location
Building 1255In-Processing
Upon arriving at Little Rock Air Force Base, service members should report to their unit’s Commander’s Support Staff to officially sign in. The CSS will provide a schedule of required in-processing appointments, including the date for the Welcome Center briefing held at “The Kenny,” formally known as the Kenneth Walters Community Support Center. Those who arrive after normal duty hours should report to their CSS on the next business day. Newcomers can also use the base’s online resources for assistance with finance, personnel services, childcare, housing, medical care, school support, family programs and other relocation needs.
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for Little Rock AFB.
1,000
units
/
Wait time varies; contact the housing office for current availability.
wait
/
AR010
MHA
Little Rock AFB’s on-post family housing is privatized and managed by Little Rock Family Housing, a Hunt Military Community. The community includes nearly 1,000 new, renovated and traditional single-family homes across four neighborhoods: Lakeview Estates, Lower Meadow Woods, Ridgecrest Estates and Upper Meadow Woods. Lakeview Estates includes renovated three- and f…
Local Market
$1,200/mo
rent
/
$200,000
avg. home
2026 BAH Calculator
Dependency Status
With Dependents
$XX,XXX per year
E-5
Location
Select a grade and location above
Data Sources
BAH rates: Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO), effective January 1, 2026. Rates set annually by DoD based on rental survey data.
View Full BAH Rates
Cost of Living Around Little Rock AFB
95
5% Below National Average
Housing
Calculate Your Buying Power
See what you can afford using your rank, BAH, and local market data.
Open Calculator
Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near Little Rock AFB.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer
9
Elementary Schools
View schools
8
Middle Schools
View schools
6
High Schools
View schools
5
Colleges & Universities
View colleges
2
Pre-K Schools
View schools
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
Little Rock AFB is located in Jacksonville, just northeast of the Little Rock metropolitan area, giving military families several distinct communities to consider. Jacksonville offers the shortest commute and a strong military presence, while Cabot and Sherwood provide quieter suburban living with convenient access to schools, shopping, and parks. North Little Rock and Little Rock are farther from the installation but offer a wider variety of neighborhoods, restaurants, entertainment, employment opportunities, and outdoor recreation.
Housing options range from affordable apartments and established neighborhoods to newer subdivisions and larger rental homes. Commute times, school districts, rental prices, and access to amenities can vary significantly by location, so families should consider daily gate access, school attendance boundaries, pet policies, and proximity to work and routine services before choosing a neighborhood.
Jacksonville
Small Town
Jacksonville has a laid-back suburban feel with a mix of established neighborhoods, everyday shopping and services, and a strong military presence tied to Little Rock AFB. It is especially popular with active-duty families, civilian employees, retirees and residents who value a short commute and generally more affordable housing over a trendier or more upscale setting.
Commute: 5-15 min
Gate: Vandenberg Gate
Schools: Jacksonville Pulaski County School District
Families with kids
Single service members
Budget-friendly
Dual military
Jacksonville’s standout amenities are its parks and recreation facilities, especially Dupree Park, which offers more than 160 acres of sports fields, trails, fishing areas, picnic spaces, and a dog park. Families also have access to neighborhood parks, playgrounds, walking paths, and seasonal recreation programs, while broader dining, nightlife, riverfront attractions, and hiking options are available about 15–30 minutes away in North Little Rock and Little Rock.
Cabot
Suburban
Cabot has a family-oriented suburban feel with newer subdivisions, established neighborhoods, local shopping, parks, and a quieter pace than Little Rock. It is popular with military families, commuters, veterans, and households looking for more space while remaining within roughly a 20-minute drive of Little Rock AFB.
Commute: 20 - 25 min
Gate: Arnold Gate
Schools: Cabot Public Schools
Families with kids
Dual military
Retirees
Cabot stands out for its family-focused recreation, including Cabot Community Park, Richie Road Park, the Cabot Aquatic Park, and the expanding Grounds recreation complex, with playgrounds, sports fields, splash areas, and paved walking paths. The city has a growing selection of local restaurants and community events, while larger nightlife, lake recreation, and more extensive hiking options are generally found in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and surrounding state parks.
Sherwood
Suburban
Sherwood has a quiet, suburban feel with established neighborhoods, newer subdivisions, parks, and convenient access to shopping and restaurants. It tends to attract families, military households, retirees, and commuters who want more residential space while staying close to Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Little Rock AFB.
Commute: 15 - 25 min
Gate: Arnold Gate
Schools: Pulaski County Special School District
Families
Retirees
Sherwood stands out for its community parks and recreation, including Lake Cherrywood Park, Delmont Park, walking trails, fishing areas, playgrounds, pools, a tennis center, and a public golf course. Local dining options include Pig ’N Chik BBQ, Mama’s Gyros Grill, Two Sisters Café, Sunny Side Up Café, and Chang’s Thai and Asian Cuisine, while the larger nightlife, shopping, and riverfront attractions of North Little Rock and Little Rock are only a short drive away.
North Little Rock
Urban
North Little Rock has a more urban and varied feel than Jacksonville, Cabot, or Sherwood, with historic neighborhoods, suburban residential areas, and the walkable Argenta Arts District near the riverfront. It tends to attract military commuters, young professionals, families, retirees, and residents who want closer access to restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and downtown Little Rock.
Commute: 20 - 30 mins
Gate: Vandenberg Main Gate
Schools: North Little Rock School District
Families
Young Professionals
Couples
North Little Rock stands out for the Argenta Arts District, with local restaurants, breweries, bars, galleries, live entertainment, and community events. Residents also have easy access to Burns Park, the Arkansas River Trail, riverfront parks, Dickey-Stephens Park, and family amenities such as playgrounds, dog parks, fishing areas, and sports facilities.
Little Rock
Suburban
Little Rock offers the most urban and varied lifestyle among the communities near the base, with downtown apartments, historic neighborhoods, established suburban areas, and newer developments farther west. It appeals to professionals, families, students, retirees, and military households who are comfortable with a longer commute in exchange for greater access to restaurants, nightlife, cultural attractions, hospitals, and outdoor recreation.
Commute: 25 - 40 min
Gate: Vandenberg Main Gate
Schools: Little Rock School District
Professionals
Families
Students
Retirees
Little Rock stands out for the River Market District, with restaurants, bars, live music, museums, shops, and seasonal events, along with additional dining and nightlife in areas such as SoMa and the Heights. Outdoor amenities include Murray Park, Two Rivers Park, the Arkansas River Trail, Big Dam Bridge, and the River Mountain trail system, giving residents convenient access to walking, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, and riverfront recreation.
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at Little Rock AFB.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully exempt
Retirement Pay
Fully exempt
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Military Pay Details
Arkansas fully exempts active duty military pay from Arkansas income tax for Arkansas legal residents. Arkansas also exe…
Spouse Income Tax
MSRRA applies. Arkansas fully exempts active duty and retirement pay.
Vehicle Registration
Active duty stationed in AR may keep home-state registration.
Property Tax
Homestead credit of $375 for primary residence.
Additional Tax Notes
View full details below.
Pet Policies at Little Rock AFB
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at Little Rock AFB.
Emergency Vet
30 mi
Arkansas Veterinary Emergency & Specialists
11619 Pleasant Ridge Rd Little Rock, AR 72212(501) 224-3784Restricted Breeds
7
Prohibited Animals
8
Dog Parks
4
Boarding & Kennels
10
Pet Guidance
2
Max Pets
/
None Listed
Weight Limit
/
$250
Pet Deposit
Monthly Rent
None listed, though residents should confirm current lease terms with the housing office before move-in.
Leash Laws
Pet-Friendly Housing
Local Pet Notes
Required Vaccinations
Pet Shipping Tips
Temporary Lodging
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at Little Rock AFB.
Commissary
1
Little Rock AFB Commissary
Exchange
BX
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Medical
2
19th Medical Group — Medical Center
Childcare & Youth
CDC Available
Youth Programs
MWR & Recreation
3
Fitness Center
Golf Course
Employment & Education
3
Education Center
Spouse Employment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Little Rock AFB.
01
What are the visitor gate hours?
Vandenberg Gate (Main Gate) is the main visitor access gate and is open 24 hours a day. Other gates are restricted to military and DoD ID holders — see the Gates section for full schedules.
Read answer
02
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
Read answer
03
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for Little Rock AFB.
Read answer
04
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
Read answer
05
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near Little Rock AFB.
Read answer
Question
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Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication; not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.