Joint Base Andrews is a joint base created when Andrews Air Force Base and Naval Air Facility Washington were combined in October 2009. The joint base was created based on the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Initiative, and Joint Base Andrews became one of 12 joint bases in the United States. Joint Base Andrews is home to Air Force One which serves the President of the United States. The joint base is also home to the 11th Wing which is assigned to the Air Force District of Washington. The wing is responsible for maintaining rotary-wing aircraft in case an emergency situation should arise. The mission of Joint Base Andrews is to make sure forces are combat-ready through a series of training and contingency response capabilities. National security is a primary focus of Joint Base Andrews. Joint Base Andrews housing offers over 850 housing units. Military personnel are encouraged to fill out a housing application at the Andrews Housing Office or contact the office at 301-981-5354. Wait times vary but can be anywhere from three to nine months. Off-post housing is available within a short commute to Joint Base Andrews. The housing office can help locate available properties while working within a service member’s applicable BAH rate. Single service members with grades E-4 or below will be required to live in the dormitories. For those looking for temporary housing, the Andrews Air Force Base Gateway Inn offers 75 temporary rooms. Military families with PCS have top priority. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance, and most facilities do not allow pets. If the temporary lodging facilities are full, the Reception Center staff can assist military personnel in finding local hotels and motels that may offer military discounts. More than 250 units are offered for temporary housing to single service members. The Housing Referral Office also maintains a list of short-term accommodations.