Dover Air Force Base
Updated: August 22, 2023
Written by Veteran.com Team
Dover Air Force Base (AFB) in Dover, Delaware, offers strategic global airlift capability, ensuring swift transportation of military personnel, equipment, and supplies worldwide.
Base Operator:
302-677-6930
Address:
442 13th Street
Dover AFB, DE 19902
What kind of base is Dover Air Force Base?
Under the operational command of the Air Mobility Command, Dover AFB houses the 436th Airlift Wing. This wing operates the Department of Defense’s busiest and most expansive air freight terminal. Established during World War II, the base has been pivotal in several military operations, including the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. Additionally, it boasts the Air Mobility Command Museum and functions as a primary port for military ingress and egress. The base also oversees the dignified transfer of fallen service members.
Dover Air Force Base History
The base began in 1941 with the construction of Dover Airdrome, initially a U.S. Army Air Corps airfield. In 1943, it was renamed Dover Army Air Base and linked with Camp Springs Army Airfield, receiving significant upgrades. By 1947, following the U.S. Air Force’s establishment, its name changed to Dover Air Force Base.
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Dover Air Force Base Housing
Dover AFB provides varied housing options. On-base residences, catering to over 5,000 military and civilian residents, are managed by Hunt Military Communities. For those interested in exploring the local community, off-base accommodations are also accessible around Dover and wider Delaware.
How to Apply For Housing
Contact the Military & Family Readiness Center at 302-677-6930, operational from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. They will guide applicants based on rank and family needs. Note: Delaware is hurricane-prone.
PCS and TDY Lodging
Eagles Rest Inn offers lodging for Temporary Duty (TDY) and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) personnel, operational 24/7. To get a room reserved, call 302-677-2841 or 302-677-2840. It’s wise to ask about pet-friendly rooms and other specifics during reservations. The inn is also reachable via email for further queries.
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What is the BAH for Dover Air Force Base?
Check to see what the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is in Delaware.
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DOVER AFB/REHOBOTH, DE BAH Rates
Military Housing Area: DE054
| Grade | With Dependents | Without Dependents |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | $2,112 | $1,692 |
| E02 | $2,112 | $1,692 |
| E03 | $2,112 | $1,692 |
| E04 | $2,112 | $1,692 |
| E05 | $2,256 | $1,863 |
| E06 | $2,274 | $1,977 |
| E07 | $2,493 | $2,115 |
| E08 | $2,742 | $2,265 |
| E09 | $2,919 | $2,271 |
| W01 | $2,286 | $2,073 |
| W02 | $2,598 | $2,262 |
| W03 | $2,901 | $2,274 |
| W04 | $2,931 | $2,319 |
| W05 | $2,970 | $2,550 |
| O01E | $2,538 | $2,253 |
| O02E | $2,856 | $2,268 |
| O03E | $2,934 | $2,280 |
| O01 | $2,268 | $1,962 |
| O02 | $2,271 | $2,208 |
| O03 | $2,889 | $2,277 |
| O04 | $2,979 | $2,508 |
| O05 | $3,033 | $2,652 |
| O06 | $3,054 | $2,880 |
| O07 | $3,078 | $2,928 |
For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.
Dover Air Force Base Surrounding Area
Dover AFB lies two miles southeast of Dover city center. It’s conveniently positioned on the Delmarva Peninsula, a short drive from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. Nearby attractions include Killens Pond State Park, Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge, and the Delaware Agricultural Museum. The area boasts a rich agricultural heritage and picturesque coastlines.
Healthcare
The 436 Medical Group offers on-base medical services, open Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., with some exceptions. Note: For urgent care off-base, proceed to the nearest medical facility.
Childcare
Dover AFB Child Development Center provides comprehensive childcare, from full-day to hourly programs, Monday to Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Schooling
In Delaware, school enrollment is mandated for children aged 5-16. At Dover AFB, children attend schools in the Caesar Rodney School District. When selecting off-base housing, research school districts. Use the Delaware State Department of Education website and consult the School Liaison Office at 302-677-4622. Kent County’s schools offer diverse educational opportunities, from AP to career education.
