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Naval Air Station Pensacola Base Guide

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Kena Sosa

Essential Base Info for NAS Pensacola

Located in the Florida Panhandle, Naval Air Station Pensacola supports over 20,000 military and civilian personnel. The Pensacola area is home to beaches, urban amenities, and to more than 350,000 residents, many of whom are military families.

NAS Pensacola supports the Naval Aviation Schools Command, Marine Aviation Training Support Groups and the Naval Air Technical Training Center. Learn more about NAS Pensacola including information about housing, education, base services, and the surrounding area.

NAS Pensacola Contacts

151 Ellyson Avenue
Building 625
NAS Pensacola, FL 32508
(850) 452-5990

  • Barracks/Single Service Member Housing (850) 452-7076
  • Child Development Center (850) 453-6310
  • Commissary (850) 262-9200
  • Hospital (850) 505-6601
  • Housing (850) 452-5168
  • ID/CAC Card Processing (850) 452-3969
  • School Age Care (850) 452-2417
  • School Liaison (850) 458-6588
  • Temporary Lodging (850) 390-6133
  • Youth Programs (850) 452-2417

Surrounding Area

NAS Pensacola and its namesake city are found in the Florida Panhandle, not far from urban life and recreational beaches. Spanning over 8,000 acres, this facility contributes to the greater community and its residents. Also, a short drive from other regional cities, such as Mobile, Alabama, there are plentiful attractions in the area that are historic, as well as natural and outdoorsy. A few of these well-known local attractions are as follows:

  • Historic Pensacola Village
  • Santa Rosa Island
  • Fort Barrancas
  • Gulf Islands
  • National Naval Aviation Museum
  • Blue Wahoos Ballpark
  • Johnson Beach
  • Perdido Key State Park
  • Perdido Kids Park
  • 5 Flags Speedway
  • Pensacola Museum of Art
  • Pensacola Opera

NAS Pensacola Mission and Units

The mission of Naval Air Station Pensacola is to ensure preparedness for air and sea missions. Major units housed at NAS Pensacola include but may not be limited to:

  • 479th Flying Training Group (FTG)
  • Center for Information Dominance (CENINFODOM) Corry Station
  • Center Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT)
  • Delta Company, 344th MI BN (Army Detachment )
  • MATSG – 21 (Marines)
  • Naval Aviation Schools Command (NAVAVSCOLSCOM)
  • Naval Education & Training Security Assistance Field Activity (NETSAFA)
  • Naval Education and Training Command (NETC)
  • Naval Education Training Professional Development Technology Center (NETPDTC)
  • Naval Technical Training Center Corry Station
  • Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC)
  • Second German AF Squadron
  • Training Air Wing SIX (CTW-6)

In-Processing and Check-In

The NAS Pensacola Quarterdeck is the hub for in-processing and check-in for new arrivals. Make sure to arrive with identification and orders, dressed in proper uniform. The Quarterdeck is in Building 1500.

For those attending the Naval Air Technical Training Center, arrive at the Quarterdeck with dress uniform, with presentable orders and identification. Contact your sponsor for detailed information. Naval Air Schools Command students would check in on site during normal business hours with orders, travel forms and identification.

Child Care

Children of military service families can receive care at Naval Air Station Pensacola through the Child Development Centers on site and at Corry Station CDC from six weeks old to 5 years old.

Military service members pay fees according to their income. All children receiving care must have up-to-date immunizations by proof of immunization record. Waiting lists can take as long as six months so make sure to apply for a space as soon as possible. The Child Development Care Center can be reached at (850) 452-6588 for more information and registration.

NAS Pensacola Housing

The Housing Office is located at Building 735, at 1581 Duncan Rd. on site at NAS Pensacola. Housing for military service members at NAS Pensacola is allotted based on availability and family/service member needs. Housing applications should be made 30 days or more prior to relocation to the area to ensure availability at one of the over 500 housing units.

Some government housing allows pets except for the following breeds: Akita, American Bulldog, Chow, Doberman, Pit Bull, and Rottweiler or mixes with these breeds. No more than 2 pets are allowed in any approved housing facility.

Related: Basic Allowance for Housing Calculator

NAS Pensacola Commissary

5800 W Highway 98
Building 3961
Pensacola, FL 32507
(850) 806-0715

The Commissary at NAS Pensacola supplies essentials for military service members, including items for daily use and the opportunity to order for special events. Special orders including fresh fruit and vegetable trays and deli items are offered at this location, but must be called in and ordered at least 24 hours ahead of time. Meat and cheese trays are available for ordering. Finally for celebrations, the bakery offers cakes and cupcakes on order in advance. Also, sushi is made fresh and sold daily.

PCS and TDY Lodging

Several temporary lodging facilities are located nearby NAS Pensacola; however, due to large volumes of arrivals, availability can be very limited. All reservations should be sought in advance. Navy Gateway Inn & Suites, the Navy Lodge, Blue Angel Park and Oak Way Park are potential sites for temporary lodging. Billeting is also limited and should be inquired about in advance. If arriving at these locations and finding no vacancy, ask for a “Non-Availability” letter in order to seek other lodgings.

Single service members should check in at the Unaccompanied Housing Office or at the billeting office if unable to find approved lodging in the Barracks E Building 3910, as temporary housing without prior reservations will be first come, first service. Small pets may be allowed at specific facilities but must have accompanying shot records. For reservations at the Navy Lodge, call (850) 456-8676.

Transportation

For those arriving at NAS Pensacola by air, the Pensacola Regional Airport will be the closest point of arrival. There are USO volunteers on site to help you figure out how to arrive at the base  most of the time, but this may not always be the case. To get to Corry Station from the airport, taxi service is available, however, make sure to check with the driver first to make sure the taxi company is one allowed on the installation grounds. Not all taxis may have access.

The city of Pensacola is only an hour away from Mobile, and less than an hour from Fort Walton Beach. The city itself spans only about 25 miles but within it there are many sites and important places. Driving into the city to the base in a personal vehicle is also accessible instead of flying.

Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License

When arriving at NAS Pensacola by car, it is not necessary to register the vehicle on base, however, many state regulations will apply. The driver must have a current driver’s license, which must be changed to a Florida license as soon as possible after arrival. The driver must also have liability insurance on their vehicle.

Safety belts must be worn at all times, while small children must be in safety seats in the back of the vehicle. Only hands-free devices should be used while driving, or preferably not while driving at all to avoid fines and stay safe. Windows may not be tinted in a way that makes them difficult to see through. All vehicles on base are subject to inspection.

Motorcycle drivers also need a motorcycle provision on their license and proper insurance. They must wear approved helmets, long protective jackets, eye protective gear, brightly colored clothing and sturdy footwear, including tall boots.

Bicycle riders should wear headgear and reflective lamps on their bikes. Pedestrians on crosswalks will always have the right of way over traffic. Use caution at crosswalk sites.

Schools

Because there are no DoD on-site schools for children, the Escambia County School District is the source for education for most students of military families. Bus service will be available for students headed to the school associated with their address. In this district there are over 30 elementary schools, and 10 middle schools, leading to graduation from one of 7 high schools.

To register for Escambia County schools, provide birth certificates, immunization records, proof of physical exam within the last calendar year, proof of residency, even if at temporary housing, and the student’s social security card.

For children living in military housing, the NAS resident students will begin their educational path at Navy Point Elementary, followed by Warrington Middle and then finish schooling at either Pensacola High or Escambia High. Corry Housing student residents will follow the same schooling path to graduation.

Colleges and Universities

Service members stationed at Naval Air Station Pensacola can take advantage of the services offered through the Virtual Education Center to continue their educational journeys. Also, on site at the DANTES Testing Center, active duty personnel can take the following exams for free:

  • CLEP
  • DSST
  • SAT
  • ACT
  • ECEP
  • PRAXIS
  • ASE
  • GRE

Related: Ultimate GI Bill Guide

NAS Pensacola Base History

Referred to by many as the Cradle of Aviation, Naval Air Station Pensacola was founded during World War I when it was the first naval air station. By the end of the war, it had expanded and supported seaplanes, dirigibles and many forms of aircraft. In 1935, NAS Pensacola established a cadet training program which once again proved its importance to supporting missions. By World War II, it was a central point for pilot training and pivotal to the role of U.S. aviation in the war.

The site continued to train aviators through the 1960s into the Vietnam War and beyond. Today, NAS Pensacola is still the headquarters of Naval Education and Training Command, flight squadrons, Naval Aviation Schools Command and other training facilities.

The base’s deepwater port and unique training features are essential to its capacity to train avid pilots. Over 50,000 service members graduate from various programs at NAS Pensacola every year, serving all branches of the military community.

Related: Ultimate Military Benefits Guide

Military Bases in Florida

The Florida Department of Veterans Affairs estimates there are more than a million and a half veterans living in the state. Florida has the third largest veteran population in the nation, second only to California and Texas. This state has more than 20 military bases, with Pensacola, Florida being recognized by some as the “cradle of Navy aviation.”

If you are traveling to Florida on PCS orders, look up the BAH in your new duty location using our BAH Calculator. You can also find veterans benefits offered in Florida.

Air Force Bases in Florida

Space Force Bases in Florida

Did you know? The State of Florida offers qualifying members of the Florida National Guard a program called Educational Dollars for Duty. This program pays public tuition in state-supported Florida colleges “for the period of the Guard member’s service,” according to the official site. You can use the program to earn a Technical Certificate, Associate’s, Baccalaureate, or Master’s Degree.

Navy Bases in Florida

Army Bases in Florida

  • USSOUTHCOM/U.S. Army Garrison-Miami
  • USAREC, Jacksonville Battalion
  • USAREC, Miami Battalion
  • USAREC, Tampa Battalion

Coast Guard Bases in Florida

  • USCG Base Miami Beach

Get more info on VA benefits for veterans, retirees, separating service members, spouses, dependents, and disabled veterans. Learn more about the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon program, monthly housing allowances, VA loans, and TRICARE.

VA Centers in Florida

The Villages VA Clinic

8900 Southeast 165th Mulberry Lane
The Villages, FL 32162-5884
352-674-5000
Mental health: 352-674-5166 x305166

Ocala VA Clinic

4826 Southwest 49th Road
Ocala, FL 34474-6299
352-369-3320
Mental health: 352-547-1583

Tavares VA Clinic

1390 East Burleigh Boulevard
Tavares, FL 32778-4305
352-253-2900
Mental health: 352-235-2900

Lecanto VA Clinic

2804 West Marc Knighton Court
Suite A
Lecanto, FL 34461
352-746-8000

Clermont VA Clinic

3200 Citrus Tower Boulevard
Clermont, FL 34711-7012
352-536-8200
Mental health: 352-536-8200

Brooksville VA Clinic

14540 Cortez Boulevard
Suite 108
Brooksville, FL 34613-6001
352-597-8287
Mental health: 352-597-8287 x4140

Medical View Lane VA Clinic

6938 Medical View Lane
Daughterly Road Professional Center
Building 7, Suite 7
Zephyrhills, FL 33542-6848
813-780-2550

Zephyrhills VA Clinic

37827 Eiland Boulevard
Zephyrhills, FL 33542-1857
813-780-2550
Mental health: 813-780-2550 x3119

Gainesville VA Clinic

5469 SW 34th Street
Gainesville, FL 32608-5032
352-548-6000

Gainesville 1 VA Clinic

5465 SW 34th Street
Gainesville, FL 32608-5032
352-384-3560

Lake Baldwin VA Clinic

5201 Raymond Street
Orlando, FL 32803-8208
407-646-5500
Mental health: 407-646-5400

Gainesville Sixty-Fourth Street 3 VA Clinic

5571 Southwest 64th Street
Gainesville, FL 32608-9608
352-337-4900

Gainesville Sixty-Fourth Street 2 VA Clinic

5533 Southwest 64th Street
Gainesville, FL 32608-9608
352-271-5967

Gainesville Sixty-Fourth Street 1 VA Clinic

5415 Southwest 64th Street
Gainesville, FL 32608-9605
352-338-4900 x161200

Gainesville VA Domiciliary

1604 Southeast 3rd Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32641-7346
352-548-1800

Malcom Randall Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center

1601 Southwest Archer Road
Gainesville, FL 32608-1135
352-376-1611
Mental health: 352-384-3560

Palatka VA Clinic

400 North State Road 19
Suite 48
Palatka, FL 32177-2449
386-329-8800
Mental health: 386-329-8800

Gainesville Ninety-Eighth Street VA Clinic

3401 Northwest 98th Street
Gainesville, FL 32606-5010
352-376-1611 x137090

Kissimmee VA Clinic

701 Union Street
Kissimmee, FL 34741-5007
407-518-5004
Mental health: 407-518-5004

New Port Richey VA Clinic

7900 Little Road
New Port Richey, FL 34654-5405
877-741-3400
Mental health: 727-869-4100 x4350

Deer Park VA Clinic

5138 Deer Park Boulevard
Suites 101 and 102
New Port Richey, FL 34653-7027
727-372-1481

VA Vet Centers In Florida

Ocala Vet Center

3300 Southwest 34th Avenue
Suite 140
Ocala, FL 34474
352-237-1947

Clermont Vet Center

1655 East Highway 50
Suite 102
Clermont, FL 34711
352-536-6701

Gainesville Vet Center

105 NW 75th Street
Suite 2
Gainesville, FL 32607
352-331-1408

Orlando Vet Center

5575 South Semoran Boulevard
Suite 30
Orlando, FL 32822
407-857-2800

Pasco County Vet Center

5139 Deer Park Drive
New Port Richey, FL 34653
727-372-1854

Other Military Bases in the Continental United States

Look up the BAH in your new duty location by searching for your zip code’s housing allowance using our BAH Calculator. You can also review our complete list of Military Bases by State.

 

 

 

About the author

Kena Sosa

Website | + posts

Kena Sosa is an award-winning author, filmmaker and percussionist. She
earned her BA from OLLU and her MBEGT from SMU. She published two
award-winning children’s books. Kena has written for CBS/DFW Local and
Multicultural Review Magazine. She was the Guest Editor for the Fall/Winter
2023 ChildArt Magazine issue. Kena has written for Recon Media since 2023.

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