PCS Military Base Guide
Embarking on a new journey to Buckley Space Force Base? Get yourself prepared with all the pros and cons of the place. This detailed guide will help you prepare, transit and enjoy a smooth PCS experience to Buckley Space Force Base, making your move as stress-free as possible.
Buckley Space Force Base (SFB) plays a pivotal role in the United States’ defense strategy, particularly in satellite operations and aerospace data gathering. Located in Aurora, Colorado, it serves as a key installation for military and civilian personnel alike.
Buckley SFB is not only strategically important but also provides a robust support system for both individual airmen and their families. This guide aims to outline essential information that will aid you in planning your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) effectively.
The base is a hub for satellite control networks, space surveillance, and missile warning systems. Its capabilities contribute significantly to national security and for personnel stationed here, understanding its mission can enrich your service experience.
Preparation and organization are key to a successful PCS. When you receive your orders to PCS, the preparation phase kicks off. If you are moving with your family, you’ll need to discuss with them on it. Here’s what you need to focus on:
Start with a PCS timeline to manage deadlines for housing applications, school registrations, and official paperwork. Check out our vast resources for military families on the move on our PCS Resources page, including checklists, budgeting tips, and guide to PCSing with Pets! A checklist can ensure you don’t overlook any critical tasks.
Gather all necessary documents such as military orders, medical records, and personal identification. Make sure you understand the specific procedures for Buckley SFB, which might differ slightly from other bases.
Explore on-post housing availability and the application process first. Try to figure out the off-post housing in nearby communities. There is a different on affordability, transportation access, comfort and many more. Deciding where to live is one of the most important aspects of your move.
Buckley SFB offers various on-base housing options that cater to different needs and ranks. Availability can vary. It’s not obvious that you’ll get the house whenever needed. So, it’s crucial to contact the housing office as soon as you have your orders.
Many families choose to live off-base in Aurora or surrounding communities. From one perspective, off-base housing will ensure you more opportunities to explore. This section will explore how to find housing, what to consider regarding commute times and local schools, and tips for negotiating leases.
Securing the right accommodation involves understanding your entitlements and benefits, being familiar with local real estate markets, and possibly visiting the area beforehand if possible. You need to collect information on housing availability first. For off-base housing try to find a real estate broker. You can find the house yourself too. In the meantime, apply for on-base housing and wait for the call. Try to find a temporary lodging in case of emergency.
PCS can disrupt kid’s educational growth. Whether you’re bringing children or planning to study yourself, knowing about educational opportunities on and near the base is crucial. You’ll get all in this base. For those with children, education is a key consideration.
Learn about the educational facilities directly on base, including daycare, preschool, and K-12 options. We’ll cover eligibility, enrollment processes, and what educational programs are available to meet the needs of your children.
Knowing the school rating is very important to make the PCS work for children. For those preferring off-base schools, this section provides information on public and private schools in Aurora, including performance ratings and special programs offered.
Buckley is equipped with recreational facilities and amenities that cater to a wide range of interests and ages, promoting a balanced lifestyle. Off-base housing will provide you some of it. Yet, living on a military base comes with several perks in terms of amenities and support services.
The base has comprehensive medical facilities, including a hospital and specialized care. This part will detail the services provided, emergency care procedures, and how to register with the base medical services. There’s 460th medical group and off-base medical supports too.
Buckley SFB boasts a range of recreational facilities, from gyms and pools to hobby shops and sports leagues. Understanding what’s available can help you and your family make the most of your time at the base. And don’t forget the natural spots. You can enjoy your leisure time with the family here.
Being stationed at Buckley SFB also means getting to know Aurora and the greater Denver area. It’s Colorado’s third largest city. Currently 398000 people lives there. But that’s not the part we want to tell you. There’s much more to enjoy in this city. let’s take a look!
Aurora offers a variety of cultural sites, parks, and activities that can enrich your off-duty life. We’ll explore local attractions, annual events, and family-friendly activities. There are Stanley marketplace, Southlands, Denver zoo, Parks, Aurora reservoir, Museum and many more for you to enjoy here.
From shopping malls to dining districts, learn where to find everything you need and discover some of the best local eateries and retail options. Besides the aurora shopping malls, there are more than 20+ shopping places around Buckley AFB. You’ll find multiple cuisine in different restaurants too.
A PCS move can be challenging; here’s how to make it smoother. Follow the tips:
1. Create a pcs binder
2. note down all the important things to do
3. Go thoroughly on your next station
4. Know the govt/ PCS facilities
5. Drop your housing application
6. Tag all your box and keep track of of your pets
7. Don’t panic and take it at ease
Consder the tips stated up are your magic. But you’ll need something else to mix into the Buckley AFB. On PCS, the base community provide the chance to blend in instantly. Try that ! Networking within the base community and finding support groups can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.
Relocating frequently can be emotionally challenging. Kids suffer from this process. Adults cope up, but that’s not an easy process too. This section offers advice on dealing with the emotional rollercoaster of PCS moves, including resources for counseling and support.
Every base is different from multiple aspects. The base environment, the community, the local culture and everything- it’ll be different on your next base. You have to fit in again from the starting. Arriving at Buckley SFB is just the beginning of your journey.
This is tough to figure out about a new place without settling in there. You can talk to the local authority and gather information. Detailed information on check-in procedures, who to report to, and the first steps to take upon arrival will set you up for a successful transition.
In PCS, there remains thousands of things to do. Well, you need to arrange them on priority basis. Upon arriving at Buckley AFB, try to find out how to get settled in, where to find essential services on the base, and how to start exploring your new home.
PCS may create a bit anxiety and disturbance within your family. To ensure a proper mental sanity, families moving to Buckley SFB have specific needs. It can be mental support, financial assistance, educational support and many more. Figure out the essentials.
Explore job opportunities for spouses, including on-base employment, local job markets, and resources for career development. The base offers career assistance programs to help military spouses find employment. These programs include resume workshops, career counseling, and networking events, which are invaluable for spouses new to the area.
Understanding the child care services available at Buckley SFB can help you manage your family’s needs effectively. At the very beginning, you’ll need to ensure your kid is feeling okay after PCS. Try to ensure their mix-up with the local community. In case of need, find child care service from the base.
Colorado’s weather can be dynamic and impacts daily life. In the summer, you’ll get to enjoy a very clean weather. But during winter it can change the mood. The winter weather may hit you with cloudy, snowy, cold strokes.
The overall climate of Buckley is very habitable. Yet, if you are from somewhere with a consistent weather, it can struck you. Take overview of the local climate, including seasonal variations that could affect your lifestyle and how to prepare for them.
Tips on dealing with common weather-related issues in Colorado, such as dry air, snow, and high altitude effects.
1. Bring enough clothes if you are PCSing in winter
2. Try not to drive much during winter
3. Keep your eyes on the weather news on regular basis
4. Prepare your kids for the weather. It’ll take time. But they’ll settle
5. Keep your emergency medical support system planned
There are certain services that you may not need on daily basis, but you’ll find them very important. It includes financial institutions, recreational places and many more. Gather information on accessing banking services, post offices, and other essential facilities on or near Buckley SFB.
Getting around Buckley SFB and the local area is easier with knowledge about public transportation, base shuttles, and car rental options. It may influence your preference of living on-base and off-base. Plan your travel route and make necessary accommodation reservations in advance.
PCS experience at Buckley Space Force Base, represents a significant step in your military career. By preparing adequately, understanding your housing options, and engaging with the community, you can ensure a smooth transition.
Join our FREE homebuyer education program to unlock LIVE tours of homes available to buy now!
Need help organizing your move? Check out these resources for a stress-free PCS!
We often get asked what to expect from a VA appraisal when you’re purchasing a home with your VA Home Loan. It’s a good question, because if you are new to buying homes and using your VA loan benefits, then this is an area that can be misunderstood and result in frustration or disappointment. Fear
Have you been pre-approved for a VA mortgage, but are wondering how you are going to ensure that the home you purchase will meet VA guidelines? Here is a list of items that the VA will look for to ensure that the property meets lending guidelines for the VA Home Loan. Mechanical systems must be
The home buying process can be daunting for any first-time buyer and it is no different for military families using the VA Home Loan. You will not only juggle finding the right house, but you’re also juggling financing and real estate agents. There is a lot to know, which is why we created our Free
