Quick Facts

• Location: Bossier City, Louisiana (northwest Louisiana, 10 miles east of Shreveport)
• Branch: United States Air Force
• Size: 22,000+ acres
• Population: More than 15,000 active-duty and Air Force Reserve personnel
• Major Units: 2nd Bomb Wing (host unit), 8th Air Force Headquarters, Air Force Global Strike Command Headquarters
• Primary Mission: Strategic nuclear and conventional bomber operations with B-52H Stratofortress aircraft

Overview & History

Barksdale Air Force Base stands as one of the most strategically important military installations in the United States, serving as headquarters for Air Force Global Strike Command and home to the 8th Air Force. The base operates approximately 44 B-52H Stratofortress bombers, providing flexible, responsive global combat capability while training all Air Force Global Strike Command and Air Force Reserve B-52 crews.

The installation occupies over 22,000 acres in Bossier Parish, Louisiana, with much of the base lying within Bossier City limits along Interstate 20. The Shreveport-Bossier City metropolitan area surrounds the base, offering military families access to urban amenities while maintaining a lower cost of living compared to most major metropolitan areas.

Barksdale’s history begins in the late 1920s when Shreveport civic leaders recognized the potential for hosting a major military airfield. In 1928, Army Air Corps Captain Harold Ross Harris flew over the region selecting a suitable location. He identified a sprawling cotton plantation area near Bossier City meeting all Air Corps requirements. Local citizens purchased the land through a $1.5 million municipal bond issue approved by voters in 1929, then donated the property to the federal government.

Construction began in 1931, creating what was then the world’s largest airfield. The base officially opened on February 2, 1933, originally named Barksdale Field in honor of 2nd Lieutenant Eugene Hoy Barksdale, a World War I aviator and test pilot who died in 1926 during aircraft spin testing over Dayton, Ohio.

The 20th Pursuit Group arrived in November 1932 as the first unit, flying Boeing P-12 and P-26 Peashooter fighters. By the mid-1930s, the base became headquarters for the 3rd Attack Wing. During World War II, Barksdale trained replacement bomber crews using B-17 Flying Fortresses, B-24 Liberators, B-26 Marauders, and B-29 Superfortresses. The famous 17th Bomb Group, led by General Jimmy Doolittle, trained at Barksdale.

The installation was renamed Barksdale Air Force Base on January 13, 1948, following the establishment of the United States Air Force as a separate service. The base served as headquarters for Air Training Command from 1945 to 1949 before transitioning to Strategic Air Command in November 1949, where it remained for nearly half a century.

Barksdale received its first B-52 Stratofortress and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft in 1958, beginning its strategic bombing mission that continues today. The 2nd Bomb Wing transferred to Barksdale in April 1963 and has served as host unit for over 60 years. Throughout the Cold War, the base maintained nuclear alert forces and participated in Strategic Air Command operations worldwide.

Following the Cold War, Barksdale participated in major operations including Desert Shield, Desert Storm (launching the first combat sortie with a 35-hour B-52 mission), Operation Allied Force in Yugoslavia, and post-9/11 operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. On September 11, 2001, the base provided safe haven for President George W. Bush during his return to Washington, D.C.

In August 2009, Air Force Global Strike Command was established with headquarters at Barksdale, consolidating the Air Force’s strategic nuclear forces. The base transferred from Air Combat Command to AFGSC in February 2010, cementing its role as the epicenter of America’s nuclear deterrent forces.

Units Stationed Here

2nd Bomb Wing serves as the host unit at Barksdale, making it the oldest bomb wing in the U.S. Air Force (dating to 1921). Assigned to the 8th Air Force of Air Force Global Strike Command, the wing operates approximately 44 B-52H Stratofortress bombers providing nuclear and conventional global strike capabilities.

The 2nd Operations Group includes three active-duty bomb squadrons:

• 11th Bomb Squadron “Mr. Jiggs” (gold tail stripe) – Formal Training Unit for B-52H crews
• 20th Bomb Squadron “Buccaneers” (blue tail stripe)
• 96th Bomb Squadron “Devil’s Own” (red tail stripe)
• 2nd Operations Support Squadron

The 2nd Maintenance Group provides aircraft maintenance, munitions, and logistics support for all assigned B-52H aircraft. The 2nd Medical Group operates medical and dental clinics serving over 15,000 eligible beneficiaries. The 2nd Mission Support Group provides security forces, civil engineering, communications, contracting, personnel services, and logistics support across the installation.

8th Air Force Headquarters relocated to Barksdale in January 1975 from Andersen AFB, Guam. The historic “Mighty Eighth” commands all AFGSC bomber forces, overseeing both B-52H and B-2 stealth bomber operations globally.

Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) Headquarters was established at Barksdale in August 2009, consolidating command over the Air Force’s bomber and ICBM forces. AFGSC organizes, trains, and equips forces providing combat-ready strategic nuclear and conventional forces.

307th Bomb Wing (Air Force Reserve Command) operates B-52H bombers as an associated unit, sharing aircraft with the 2nd Bomb Wing. The wing’s two squadrons are the 93rd Bomb Squadron “Indian Outlaws” and 343rd Bomb Squadron.

Additional units include the 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron (tests and evaluates B-52 modifications and weapons systems), 340th Weapons Squadron (trains weapons officers), and 26th Operational Weather Squadron (provides weather support for bomber operations).

Housing Options

On-Base Housing

Hunt Military Communities manages approximately 991 privatized family housing units at Barksdale AFB, consisting of single-family homes, townhomes, and duplexes across five distinct neighborhoods. Housing options range from two to four bedrooms with various floor plans accommodating ranks from E-1 through O-6.

Wait times vary significantly by rank, unit size, and season, typically ranging from immediate availability to 6-12 months for specific floor plans and neighborhoods. Priority goes to incoming personnel, followed by current base residents requesting transfers.

All homes feature modern amenities including Energy Star appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, garbage disposal), washer/dryer hookups or units included, central HVAC, attached or detached garages, covered patios, and professional landscaping services. Utilities (water, sewer, trash) are typically included, though residents may pay for electricity and natural gas usage.

Pet-friendly policies allow up to two pets per household with no pet deposit in designated neighborhoods, though breed, size, and weight restrictions apply. Communities offer playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, swimming pools, exercise facilities, walking trails, and regular community events.

Five Neighborhoods:

Heritage Heights (East Side) – Ranks E-1 through E-6 – Offers 2, 3, and 4-bedroom traditional and contemporary homes with the largest variety of floor plans on base. Features include wood flooring in select homes, brick/vinyl siding, plenty of closet space, recessed lighting, fireplaces in select units, and covered patios.

Liberty Heights (East Side) – Ranks E-1 through E-6 – Features 3 and 4-bedroom homes with wood flooring in select units, vinyl/stucco siding, covered patios, community pool access, and comprehensive landscaping services.

Main Base – Centrally located with convenient access to base facilities, commissary, and schools. Mix of home sizes and styles.

Sandhill Landing – Newly renovated homes with modern finishes and updated infrastructure.

Officer Housing – Reserved for commissioned officers, offering larger homes with premium amenities and locations.

24-hour emergency maintenance service responds immediately to urgent issues, while routine maintenance typically completes within 24-48 hours. Contact Barksdale Family Housing at 888-697-0422 or Housing Management Office at 318-456-4791 for applications and current availability.

Off-Base Housing

The Shreveport-Bossier City metropolitan area (combined population over 200,000) provides extensive off-base housing options across two parishes (Bossier and Caddo). The cost of living is approximately 20% below the national average, making homeownership and saving money more achievable for military families.

Bossier City (Bossier Parish) offers the closest housing to base with typical commute times of 10-20 minutes. Two-bedroom apartments rent for $900-$1,400 monthly, while three to four-bedroom homes rent for $1,400-$2,200 monthly. Home prices range from $180,000-$320,000, with newer construction exceeding $350,000.

Shreveport (Caddo Parish) sits across the Red River, providing additional housing options with slightly longer commutes (15-30 minutes depending on location). Similar rental and purchase price ranges exist with greater variety of neighborhoods and property types.

Popular communities for military families include:

• Benton (north of base, excellent schools, family-oriented)
• Haughton (east of base, close proximity, growing community)
• South Bossier City (convenient to base, established neighborhoods)
• South Shreveport (affordable options, urban amenities)
• Blanchard (north of Shreveport, rural setting, newer developments)

The Housing Management Office provides off-base housing referrals, lease counseling, and assistance resolving landlord-tenant disputes. Many landlords in the area are familiar with military tenants and understand frequent relocations.

BAH Rates

2025 BAH rates for Shreveport/Barksdale AFB (military housing area LA117):

• E-5 with dependents: $1,479
• E-7 with dependents: $1,686
• O-3 with dependents: $1,857
• O-5 with dependents: $2,142

Service members with dependents receive approximately 30% more BAH than those without dependents. These rates adequately cover most housing costs in the local market, often allowing families to save money or build equity through homeownership.

Schools & Education

DoDEA Schools

Barksdale AFB does not operate Department of Defense Education Activity schools on the installation. Military children attend local public schools in either Bossier Parish or Caddo Parish school districts depending on residence location.

Local School Districts

Bossier Parish Schools serves families living in Bossier City and northern areas near base. The district operates over 35 schools enrolling approximately 22,000 students with a student-teacher ratio around 15:1. Schools offer comprehensive programs including gifted education, special education, career and technical education, Advanced Placement courses, athletics, and extensive extracurricular activities.

On-base housing on the Main Base is assigned to:

• Waller Elementary School
• Rusheon Middle School
• Bossier High School

East Reservation housing is assigned to:

• T.L. Rodes Elementary (Pre-K through Grade 1)
• Platt Elementary (Grades 2-3)
• Princeton Elementary (Grades 4-5)
• Haughton Middle School
• Haughton High School

Caddo Parish Schools serves families living in Shreveport and western areas. The district operates numerous schools enrolling approximately 45,000 students with a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Similar comprehensive programs exist including magnet schools, International Baccalaureate programs, and specialized academies.

Both districts maintain School Liaison Officers who assist military families with enrollment, school selection, records transfer, and addressing unique military family needs. Contact the Barksdale School Liaison Office at 318-456-8400 for enrollment assistance and school information.

Higher Education

Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in numerous fields with military tuition assistance accepted. The campus sits 15 miles from base providing convenient access for evening and weekend courses.

Bossier Parish Community College provides associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce training with affordable tuition and flexible schedules accommodating military work schedules. Multiple campuses serve the Shreveport-Bossier area.

Southern University at Shreveport offers associate degrees and workforce certificates with a focus on technical and healthcare programs.

The Barksdale Education Center provides academic counseling, testing services (CLEP, DSST, ASVAB), tuition assistance processing, and access to distance learning programs from accredited universities nationwide. Education counselors assist service members in developing education plans aligned with career goals and help navigate GI Bill benefits. Contact the Education Center at 318-456-8400.

Healthcare Facilities

The 2nd Medical Group operates comprehensive outpatient medical and dental clinics at Barksdale AFB serving over 15,000 eligible beneficiaries including active-duty members, retirees, and their families.

2nd Medical Operations Squadron provides primary care, family practice, pediatrics, women’s health, immunizations, physical therapy, laboratory services, radiology, optometry, and pharmacy services. The clinic employs physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and specialized healthcare providers.

Appointment availability varies by service type and provider. Same-day appointments are available through the Acute Care Clinic for urgent but non-emergency medical needs. Routine appointments typically schedule within 5-10 business days depending on specialty and availability. Active-duty members receive priority scheduling.

The on-site pharmacy dispenses most common medications immediately, with specialized prescriptions available through TRICARE mail order within 5-7 business days. Drive-through pharmacy service provides convenience for prescription pickup during extended hours.

For specialty care not available on base, the clinic refers patients to Willis-Knighton Medical Center, LSU Health Shreveport, Ochsner LSU Health System, or other civilian network providers throughout the Shreveport-Bossier area. TRICARE Prime enrollees receive care coordination through the clinic’s referral management office.

Emergency medical services route to nearest civilian emergency departments:

• Willis-Knighton Bossier Health Center Emergency Department (5 miles from base)
• Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport (10 miles)
• Willis-Knighton Medical Center (12 miles)
• Christus Shreveport-Bossier Health System

2nd Dental Squadron provides comprehensive dental care for active-duty personnel including preventive cleanings, restorations, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, and emergency treatment. Family members access dental care through TRICARE Dental Program civilian providers in the local community.

2nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron provides flight medicine services, occupational health, public health, and bioenvironmental engineering support ensuring mission readiness for bomber operations.

Mental health services include individual and group counseling, psychiatric care, substance abuse treatment, and family therapy. Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC) provide non-medical counseling services without requiring referrals or appointments, offering convenient confidential support.

Base Amenities

Shopping Facilities

The Barksdale Commissary operates seven days weekly, providing groceries, fresh produce, meat, seafood, bakery items, dairy products, frozen foods, and household items at prices typically 20-30% below civilian grocery stores. The commissary offers curbside pickup services, special sales events, and holiday promotions. All forms of payment are accepted.

The Barksdale Air Force Exchange complex includes a large main store comparable to major department stores, offering clothing, electronics, home goods, furniture, appliances, toys, jewelry, automotive supplies, and military uniforms. The Exchange includes a food court with multiple restaurants (Popeyes, Charley’s Philly Steaks, Taco Bell, Anthony’s Pizza, Subway), Starbucks, and separate facilities for Military Clothing Sales.

The Exchange gas station typically offers fuel prices 10-20 cents below local civilian stations, resulting in significant savings given Louisiana’s moderate fuel costs. Multiple BX Express convenience stores operate across base providing quick shopping for snacks, beverages, and basic necessities.

Fitness & Recreation

Hoban Fitness Center spans over 50,000 square feet providing extensive fitness equipment and programs. Facilities include cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, stationary bikes), free weights, resistance machines, functional fitness areas, two full basketball courts, racquetball courts, indoor track, spin studio, and group fitness classroom. The center offers dozens of group fitness classes weekly including yoga, Zumba, kickboxing, boot camps, cycling, and martial arts. Certified personal trainers are available by appointment for customized workout plans and fitness assessments.

Additional fitness facilities include outdoor fitness trails, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and sports fields for squadron activities and intramural leagues.

Outdoor Recreation rents camping equipment, fishing gear, boats, kayaks, paddleboards, sports equipment, and outdoor supplies at nominal fees. The office organizes trips to regional attractions including Louisiana state parks, Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake Bistineau, Kisatchie National Forest, and Gulf Coast beaches. Equipment rentals and guided trips make outdoor activities accessible and affordable.

The base features an outdoor Splash Pad water park operating seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing family-friendly water recreation. Bomber Bayou Golf Course offers 18 challenging holes through beautiful Louisiana pine forests with a clubhouse restaurant, pro shop, driving range, practice greens, and cart rentals. The course hosts tournaments and leagues year-round.

Strike Zone Bowling Center features 32 lanes with automatic scoring, arcade games, billiards, and a full-service lounge. The center hosts leagues for adults, youth, and families, along with special events and birthday parties.

The Auto Hobby Shop provides workspace, professional tools, and equipment for vehicle maintenance, repairs, and customization. Bay rentals allow service members to work on personal vehicles at affordable hourly rates with access to lifts, diagnostic equipment, and specialized tools.

Additional recreation facilities include the Arts and Crafts Center (woodworking, pottery, painting, crafts), Outdoor Pool (seasonal), and Youth Center with extensive programming for children and teens.

Family Support

The Airman & Family Readiness Center located at Building 4629 serves as the primary resource for quality of life support. Services include employment assistance for spouses, financial counseling and education, deployment support for families, relocation assistance, transition services for separating or retiring members, exceptional family member program coordination, and information and referral services.

Financial counselors provide one-on-one advice on budgeting, debt management, credit counseling, savings strategies, investment basics, and financial planning. The center hosts workshops throughout the year on various financial topics, home buying, and consumer protection.

The Child Development Center accommodates 190 children ages 6 weeks through 5 years with full-day care, preschool programs, extended day care, and hourly care options. The center operates Monday through Friday, 6:15 AM to 6:00 PM. No annual registration fee applies, and fees are based on family income calculated through military pay tables. Fees may be paid weekly or biweekly.

Wait lists exist for all age groups, typically ranging from 3-6 months for infant care, shorter for older children. Service members with PCS orders should contact the CDC immediately to complete DD Form 2606 (Application for Child Care) for advance placement on the wait list. Effective date on the wait list is determined by application postmark date.

School Age Care provides before-school and after-school programs for children kindergarten through age 12 during the school year, with full-day care available during summer and school breaks. Transportation is provided from assigned schools.

The Youth Center is a modern 19,922 square-foot facility serving children and teens ages 6-18 with three activity rooms, large game room, dance room, music room, TV lounge, computer/study room, gymnasium, kitchen, snack bar, and outdoor patio. Programs include sports leagues, homework assistance, leadership development clubs, special interest classes, teen nights, and seasonal camps.

Employment Opportunities

Civilian Positions

Barksdale AFB employs thousands of civilian workers in diverse positions supporting bomber operations, base infrastructure, and mission support functions. Common career fields include aircraft maintenance, engineering, cybersecurity, medical services, administration, security, logistics, and facilities management.

Current job openings are posted on USAJobs.gov, the official federal employment website. Military spouses receive hiring preference through the Military Spouse Preference program, and veterans receive preference points for federal positions. Typical positions and salary ranges include:

• Aircraft mechanics and technicians: $50,000-$75,000
• Engineers (aerospace, civil, electrical, mechanical): $65,000-$110,000
• IT specialists and cybersecurity professionals: $60,000-$95,000
• Medical providers and healthcare professionals: $55,000-$120,000
• Administrative specialists: $40,000-$65,000
• Security forces and law enforcement: $45,000-$70,000
• Logistics and supply specialists: $45,000-$68,000

Many positions require U.S. citizenship and security clearances depending on job responsibilities and access requirements. Clearance processing can take 6-12 months for positions requiring Secret or Top Secret clearances.

Spouse Employment

The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program through the Airman & Family Readiness Center provides comprehensive employment assistance including career counseling, resume development, interview preparation, job search strategies, skills assessments, career training opportunities, and networking events.

Military spouse preference applies to federal positions on base and at other federal installations within commuting distance. The preference provides significant competitive advantages during the hiring process.

The Shreveport-Bossier City area offers robust employment opportunities for military spouses across multiple sectors. Major employers include:

• Healthcare systems (Willis-Knighton Health System, LSU Health Shreveport, Ochsner Health, Christus Health)
• Casino resort complexes (employment for thousands in hospitality, food service, entertainment)
• Education (Bossier Parish Schools, Caddo Parish Schools, colleges and universities)
• Retail and commercial businesses
• Manufacturing and industrial companies
• Professional services firms

Louisiana’s growing economy, combined with the lower cost of living, makes the Shreveport-Bossier area attractive for dual-income military families. Remote work opportunities continue expanding for spouses with portable careers in fields such as IT, customer service, education, writing, graphic design, accounting, and various professional services.

The installation hosts job fairs quarterly, connecting military spouses with employers actively recruiting in the region. The Chamber of Commerce and local economic development organizations maintain military spouse employment initiatives recognizing the value these employees bring to local businesses.

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Barksdale AFB sits in northwestern Louisiana providing access to regional attractions while maintaining affordable living costs. Shreveport and Bossier City form a metropolitan area offering urban amenities, entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.

Local Activities

Shreveport (population 190,000) across the Red River offers museums, historic districts, performing arts venues, casinos, restaurants, and shopping. The Louisiana Boardwalk entertainment complex along the riverfront features outlet shopping, restaurants, IMAX theater, and seasonal events. Shreveport Aquarium displays Louisiana aquatic life and ecosystems. R.W. Norton Art Gallery houses American and European art collections in beautiful gardens.

Bossier City (population 65,000) hosts multiple casino resorts (Horseshoe, Margaritaville, Diamond Jacks, Boomtown) offering gaming, entertainment, concerts, dining, and golf. The casinos attract national acts and provide employment for thousands of locals.

Cross Lake offers boating, fishing, water skiing, and lakefront dining. Public boat launches and marinas provide access to excellent bass fishing. The lake’s scenic beauty attracts photography enthusiasts, especially during sunset.

Red River National Wildlife Refuge provides hiking trails, wildlife viewing, fishing, and hunting in season. The refuge protects bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands supporting diverse wildlife populations.

Sci-Port Discovery Center is an interactive science museum downtown Shreveport featuring hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, IMAX theater, and educational programs for families.

Regional Destinations

Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau organizes festivals year-round including Red River Revel Arts Festival (autumn), Louisiana State Fair (October), Mudbug Madness Festival (spring crawfish celebration), and various cultural events celebrating Louisiana’s diverse heritage.

Texas lies just 15 miles west. Dallas-Fort Worth (2.5 hours drive) provides big-city attractions including professional sports (Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, Stars), world-class museums, Six Flags Over Texas, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Arkansas borders to the north. Hot Springs National Park (2.5 hours) features historic bathhouses, hiking trails, and mountain scenery. Little Rock (3 hours) offers state capital attractions, museums, and Clinton Presidential Library.

Mississippi lies to the east. Vicksburg National Military Park (2 hours) preserves Civil War battlefield sites with extensive monuments and museums. Jackson (3 hours) provides state capital attractions.

Toledo Bend Reservoir (90 minutes south) ranks among the nation’s premier bass fishing destinations with over 185,000 acres. The lake offers camping, boating, and waterfront cabin rentals.

New Orleans (5 hours southeast) provides weekend trip opportunities for French Quarter exploration, jazz music, Creole cuisine, Mardi Gras (if timing aligns), and cultural experiences.

Gulf Coast beaches (5-6 hours south) offer beach vacations at Gulf Shores, Alabama; Biloxi, Mississippi; and other coastal destinations.

Legal Services

The 2nd Bomb Wing Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) office provides free, confidential legal assistance to active-duty service members, retirees, and their family members. Appointments are scheduled by calling the legal office through the base directory at 318-456-1110.

Available Services

Legal assistance attorneys provide advice and document preparation for:

• Wills, living wills, trusts, and comprehensive estate planning
• Powers of attorney (general, special, financial, and medical)
• Advanced medical directives and healthcare proxies
• Notary services for official documents and affidavits
• Landlord-tenant issues and residential lease review
• Consumer protection matters and contract disputes
• Family law consultations including separation agreements, divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and name changes
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) protections and enforcement
• Deployment legal readiness and family care plan preparation
• Debt collection defense and credit counseling referrals

The office provides extensive guidance on SCRA, which protects active-duty members from certain civil legal proceedings and financial obligations including:

• Interest rate caps (6% maximum on pre-service debts during active duty)
• Lease termination rights for PCS orders or deployment
• Eviction protections requiring court orders
• Stay or postponement of civil court proceedings
• Protection from default judgments
• Vehicle repossession protections

Area Defense Counsel provides independent representation for military justice matters including:

• Article 15 non-judicial punishment proceedings
• Courts-martial (summary, special, and general)
• Administrative separations and show-cause boards
• Letters of reprimand and adverse administrative actions
• Security clearance revocation proceedings
• Line of duty determinations

Defense attorneys work independently from command, maintaining strict attorney-client confidentiality and providing zealous advocacy for their clients. These services are provided at no cost to service members.

Legal assistance does NOT include representation in civilian court proceedings. However, attorneys provide limited advice and maintain referral lists of civilian attorneys practicing in Louisiana for cases requiring court representation in divorce proceedings, custody disputes, civil lawsuits, criminal defense, personal injury, real estate transactions, or other matters beyond military legal assistance scope.

The Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) supports victims of crimes, providing advocacy, resources, safety planning, accompaniment to interviews and proceedings, and guidance through investigation and military justice processes. VWAP coordinators maintain confidentiality and ensure victims understand their rights throughout the process.

For complex legal matters, the SJA office provides referrals to the Louisiana State Bar Association’s Lawyer Referral Service and local bar associations offering reduced-fee initial consultations.

PCSing to Barksdale AFB

In-Processing

Report to your unit orderly room within 24 hours of arrival (excluding weekends and federal holidays) with copies of PCS orders, medical records, training records, identification cards for all family members, and vehicle registration documents.

Complete base in-processing through the Military Personnel Section typically within 2-3 business days. Processing includes records review, security clearance verification, personnel records update, briefings on local policies and procedures, and unit assignment confirmation.

Schedule medical in-processing appointments for all family members at the 2nd Medical Group within the first week of arrival. Contact the clinic’s appointment line to schedule initial health assessments, immunization updates, and TRICARE enrollment verification. Bring previous medical and dental records to expedite processing and ensure continuity of care.

Update DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) information and obtain new ID cards at the ID Card Section in the Military Personnel Flight if needed. Appointments are strongly recommended to minimize wait times. Bring marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other dependent documentation.

First Week Essentials

Attend the Newcomers Orientation at the Airman & Family Readiness Center. This comprehensive briefing covers base services, local area information, housing options, schools, employment assistance, and answers frequently asked questions. The orientation occurs regularly and provides invaluable information for smooth transition.

Obtain base vehicle passes and parking decals from the Visitor Center. Vehicle registration requires current vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and valid driver’s license. Temporary passes are issued immediately while permanent decals are processed and mailed.

If applying for on-base housing, contact Hunt Military Communities at 888-697-0422 or Barksdale Family Housing immediately upon arrival to begin the application process. Provide orders and family information to determine eligibility and placement on wait lists for desired neighborhoods. If housing is unavailable or wait times are extended, arrange temporary lodging at on-base facilities or off-base hotels. The Gateway Inn on base provides temporary lodging for PCSing families (reservations strongly recommended – often books weeks in advance during peak PCS seasons).

Register children for school immediately by visiting school registrar offices with PCS orders, immunization records, birth certificates, and previous school records. Schools typically accommodate new students within days of completed enrollment. The School Liaison Officer at the Airman & Family Readiness Center (318-456-8400) assists with registration processes, provides information about schools in both parish systems, and helps address special education or gifted program needs.

Establish utility services for off-base housing. Louisiana utilities include:

• Electricity: SWEPCO (Southwestern Electric Power Company) or Cleco Power
• Natural gas: CenterPoint Energy
• Water/sewer: Bossier City or Shreveport municipal utilities depending on location
• Internet/cable: Suddenlink, AT&T, Cox Communications

Register vehicles with Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles within 30 days if establishing Louisiana residency. Military members may maintain home state vehicle registration under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act if preferred, though Louisiana vehicle registration often simplifies local law enforcement interactions. Contact the legal office for guidance on residency decisions and tax implications.

Local Tips

Weather: Northwestern Louisiana experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching 90-100°F from June through September. High humidity makes heat indices feel even hotter. Winters are mild with daytime temperatures typically 45-60°F, though occasional cold fronts bring freezing temperatures and rare ice storms causing school and base closures. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures. Severe weather including tornadoes occurs primarily March through May. Familiarize yourself with base shelter procedures and download weather alert apps. Heavy rainfall can occur year-round with Louisiana’s wettest months being December through March.

Cost of Living: The Shreveport-Bossier area offers significantly lower cost of living (approximately 20% below national average) compared to most military installations. Housing costs are affordable, groceries and dining are reasonably priced, and state taxes are moderate. Lower costs allow families to save money, pay down debt, build emergency funds, or enjoy discretionary spending. Take advantage of commissary and exchange benefits to maximize savings.

Culture and Community: Louisiana’s unique culture blends Southern hospitality, Cajun and Creole influences, French heritage, and strong military support traditions. The local community strongly supports Barksdale AFB, hosting events throughout the year and providing assistance to military families. Many businesses offer military discounts—always ask before purchasing. Churches, civic organizations, and community groups welcome military families.

Traffic and Commutes: Traffic in Shreveport-Bossier is moderate compared to larger cities, though rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) create congestion on I-20 and major thoroughfares. Commute times from most residential areas range 15-30 minutes depending on location and time of day. Interstate 20 provides primary east-west access, while Interstate 49 connects north-south. The Texas Street Bridge and I-20 Bridge cross the Red River connecting Shreveport and Bossier City.

Spouse Employment: Employment opportunities exist on base and throughout the Shreveport-Bossier area across multiple sectors. The SECO program provides valuable resources for job searching, career development, and networking. Louisiana’s growing economy and diverse job market support military spouse careers. Remote work opportunities are increasingly important for spouses with specialized skills.

Recreation and Entertainment: Embrace Louisiana’s unique recreation opportunities. Fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities are popular year-round. Casino entertainment provides concerts, comedy shows, and gaming. Explore Louisiana cuisine including Cajun and Creole restaurants, barbecue, and local favorites. Attend festivals celebrating food, music, and culture throughout the year.

Southern Hospitality: Expect friendly interactions, slower pace compared to urban areas, and genuine hospitality from locals. Community events, church activities, and neighborhood gatherings provide opportunities to build relationships and integrate into the community.

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Sources: Barksdale Air Force Base Official Website, Wikipedia (Barksdale Air Force Base article), 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs, Bossier Parish Schools, Caddo Parish Schools, Hunt Military Communities, Defense.gov

Last Updated: January 2025