Airmen learn how to 'Smooth Move'

  • Published
  • By Airman Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The Airmen & Family Readiness Center hosted its monthly Smooth Move briefing which taught approximately 30 Airmen and family members the importance of preparing for a permanent change of station (PCS) March 11 here.

The briefing, which has been around for a number of years, is mandatory for departing Airmen and their families to ensure they are aware of the actions needed for a truly 'smooth move.' 

"The purpose of our monthly Smooth Move briefings [is] to help relieve the stress of Airmen when PCSing," said Mickey Lane, 23d Force Support Squadron community readiness technician. "This event is designed to make Airmen aware of our services and other on-base agencies' services to help them have a smoother transition."

In order to stay on track to achieve a smooth transition, Lane said Airmen need to notify the A&FRC as soon as possible after receiving PCS orders.

"PCS moves are very time consuming and complex," Lane said. "Airmen need to contact us, so we can set them up for Smooth Move and get them in line with all the services we provide which they will need. It's best to take advantage of what we offer because trying to handle your process on a short time period will be challenging." 

The challenges of PCSing are not unfamiliar to Lane, who experienced it first hand as an Airman.

"Before Smooth Move was implemented, if you were relocating and didn't have a sponsor, you had to pretty much figure everything out on your own," Lane said. "Those various resources that are offered now through Smooth Move such as help with spouse employment resume writing weren't available then. Now, however, Airmen can experience different opportunities to know all the necessary steps required to PCS beforehand instead of scrambling on short time unaware of what to do."

Senior Master Sgt. Stephen Hart, 23d Medical Operations Squadron superintendent, who is experiencing his ninth PCS, noticed a difference within the PCS process as well.

"I've learned now through the DPS [Defense Personal Property System] that individuals have to submit shipment requests and have more responsibility with the process of creating an account instead of the TMO [Traffic Management Office] handling more of the work load," Hart said.  "This is something that I didn't experience during my last PCS three years ago. The process has definitely changed."

Guest speakers gave suggestions to the participants, ranging from first time to final PCS movers, on handling relocation budget plans, emergency funds and pet expenses. Additionally, advice on conducting plans involving utilities, security deposits, items for new households and understanding entitlements were given.

TRICARE, finance, school liaison officer services and transition management office representatives also shared their opinions on how to alleviate the challenges Airmen could face during a PCS.

"Do not change your [TRICARE] plan before moving," said Derrick Harris, 23d FSS debt collection assistance officer, and beneficiary counseling and assistance coordinator. "You'll need to utilize the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), and update your address and personal information while making sure you transfer your regional TRICARE Prime coverage within 30 days of arriving at your new base."

In addition to TRICARE info, base agency representatives also discussed buying versus renting homes, utilizing Veteran Affairs loans, and the aspects of shipping vehicles to overseas bases.

The next Smooth Move briefing is scheduled for April 8 at 9 a.m. at the A&FRC. The event is open to Airmen and their family members who will be PCSing in the near future.

For additional info, call the A&FRC at 229-257-3333.