PCS success tips

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Yash Rojas
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Members of the U.S. Armed Forces are known for their ability to be mission ready at all times. They are famous for their bravery and unshakable military bearing. Whether coming or going, there is one thing that can stress even the calmest of servicemembers: permanent change of station.

For many military members, out-processing can prove to be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are organizations put in place specifically to aid individuals who are beginning their PCS move.

Both the Airman and Family Readiness Center and the Travel Management Office are dedicated to making a PCS as seamless as possible.

According to Staff Sgt. Ryan Hall, 354th Logistics readiness Squadron, NCO in charge of TMO Personal Property, a successful move is not a matter of chance.

"It is a combined effort involving the customer and us here at TMO," said Sergeant Hall. "We at TMO provide the customer with the most up-to-date information in attempt to make their move as straight forward as possible."

Many unsuccessful moves are a result of missed deadlines. Unfortunately a large majority of these headaches, including orders and TMO deadlines, can be avoided if only given the proper attention.

"The main mistake members make is holding on to their orders and coming to TMO a week prior to their PCS date," he said.

TMO suggests that servicemembers make arrangements before their anticipated move to ensure adequate time for processing of all documents and to make projected moves a little less stressful.

"Move dates require a minimum three week window for all of the paper work to be completed and forwarded to the carrier for approval," said Sergeant Hall. So we recommend that you come to TMO as soon as you receive your orders and start the PCS process early."

The Airman and Family Readiness Center provides a "Smooth Move" seminar that is designed to prepare individuals for their upcoming PCS. Many different agencies work together to provide servicemembers with answers.

"Remember to ask questions if you don't understand or are unsure of something," added Sergeant Hall. "We are here to assist members with any and all questions regarding PCSing."

Representatives from the Military Personnel Flight, TMO, Housing, the Personal Property Processing Office, and Transportation are only a few of the experts available to answer questions at the seminars.

"Being prepared makes relocating less stressful, but if you would like a smooth move, you must play an active role," said Sergeant Hall.

Out-processing fears can now become a thing of the past. With such helpful organizations as the Airman and Family Readiness Center and TMO, PCSing can become a success.

Editor's note: Information provided by Airman Whitney Amstutz, 36th Wing Public Affairs