In my first PCS article I spoke about an upcoming PCS and what you can do in preparation (even before Orders have been received). My second article was originally going to detail the items that should be completed once orders are received but since we are in the process ourselves, I thought blogging in real time about our current experiences would be more helpful.
Here are two things that will need to happen BEFORE you will even receive orders.
1. Sponsorship: The Army has recently implemented a new standard that requires the SM (Service Member) to have a named Sponsor at the incoming duty station before Orders are issued. This means that there must be a named individual (SM) that will act as a Sponsor for you/your spouse once you arrive. Until this person is designated you won't receive Orders.
2. EFMP: If you are assigned to an overseas assignment (including Hawaii and Alaska) and you have children, all of your children must be checked for the EFMP Program (Exceptional Family Member Program). Regardless of whether or not your child is or is not in the program they must be seen by the EFMP Liason. Generally they will have an office at the local hospital. Here at Ft.Polk our kids have a scheduled appointment with the EFMP provider at Baynes Jones. Until the kids have been seen and cleared you will not receive orders.
If you are like us and you are coming up on 30 days before early reporting or leave time prior to your report date then I would strongly suggest providing proper notice to your current leasing office. Most places (whether you live on or off post) will require at least a 30 Day Notice before you plan to move out. Despite not receiving Orders you can still provide notice so that you are not penalized for short notice. I worked with military housing here at Ft.Polk so I can tell you that the process is quite simple, and as long as you come in with proper notice, they can easily work with you on any necessary change of dates once Orders are actually received.
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