SPONSORSHIP TRAINING INFORMATION GUIDE

Transcription

1 SPONSORSHIP TRAINING INFORMATION GUIDE April 2013

2 MARINE CORPS COMMUNITY SERVICES MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS RESOURCES RELOCATION ASSISTANCE OFFICE CAMP FOSTER BLDG 445 OFFICE: /2106/8395 FAX: SATELLITE OFFICES Camp Kinser Bldg Camp Hansen Bldg / /4860 Camp Schwab Bldg Camp Courtney Bldg / /9754 RELOCATION ASSISTANCE SPONSORSHIP TRAINING NEWCOMERS ORIENTATION SMOOTH MOVE WORKSHOP INFORMATION, READINESS & REFERRAL PERSONAL FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM CULTURAL RELATIONS PROGRAM TRANSITION AND EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE FAMILY MEMBER EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE RETIRED ACTIVITIES OFFICE VETERANS AFFAIRS ASSISTANCE 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Subject Page Newcomer s Information 4 Sponsor Responsibilities 5 Sample Welcome Aboard Letters From Sponsor 611 Electronic Welcome Aboard Package 1214 Overseas Suitability Screening (OSS) process 14 Area Clearance/Dependant Entry Approval 15 Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) 1617 Pet Information 1821 Banned Dog Breeds 22 Housing Information 2224 Financial Institutions 25 Long Distance Phone Services 25 Employment Assistance 2627 Distribution Management Office (DMO) 27 Weight Restrictions 28 Shipment of Motorcycles/Mopeds 2829 Government Furniture and Appliances 2931 Loan Locker 31 Thrift Shop Bucks 32 Important Documents 33 Newcomers Orientation (NOWA) 34 Child Development Centers (CDC) Information 3537 Post Office Box 38 Circuitous Travel and Approved Airlines 3839 Reserving Temporary Lodging/Billeting 39 Temporary Lodging Facilities On and Off base 3941 Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) 4143 Per Diem Information 44 Dislocation Allowance (DLA) 45 Commissary Run 46 Day of Arrival 47 Checkin Process 48 IPAC 4849 PSD 5051 TRICARE Information Center 5152 Off Limit Areas 52 School Information and DDS Registration 5354 School Liaison Officer 54 School Transportation Office 55 Off Base Private Schools and Colleges 55 Driver s License Information 56 Vehicle Purchasing 57 Sponsorship Reimbursement 57 Sponsorship Checklist 5859 Notes Section 60 3

4 Contact Assigned Newcomer Welcome Letter Internet DSN FAX NEWCOMERS INFORMATION Information address (military & personal) Home address Work address Home & work phone numbers Leave address Leave phone number Children s ages & grades Pet(s) Flight information Port call date Request a Copy of the Orders & Area Clearance/Dependent Entry Approval The newcomer should send you a copy of his/her orders and approved area clearance (USMC) or dependent entry approval (USN). These documents are necessary for the sponsor to set up appointments. Youth Sponsorship Name(s) Age(s) Grade(s) Interests ** Names of High School age children should be submitted to the Sponsorship Coordinator as soon as possible. ** 4

5 SPONSOR S RESPONSIBILITIES Attend Sponsorship Training offered by M&FPR before sponsoring an inbound service member / family Contact your nearest M&FPR Two hour workshop Contact the Newcomer Ensure the appropriate command welcome letters are sent Ensure the unit sponsorship coordinator sends a Welcome Aboard Package Send a personal Welcome Aboard Letter from yourself Provide gaining unit mailing address and duty phone numbers Provide general information prior to arrival Get a port call date Get a copy of member s orders & area clearance/dependent entry approval Ensure Application for Assignment To Housing (DD Form 1746) has been submitted Establish childcare reservations for children under 10 Provide information on pet importation and restricted breeds Ask if youth sponsor is desired Schedule appointments & make reservations Housing brief Billeting Reservations at Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLA approved) Schedule for Newcomer s Orientation Welcome Aboard (For accompanied members and unaccompanied E6 and above) Schedule Joint Reception Center (JRC) for unaccompanied members E5 and below by calling /5395 Arrange for transportation Kennel reservations for pets Establish a post office box Provide transportation from airport to lodging Escort to inprocessing locations Assist with house hunting and vehicle purchases Provide assistance to obtain USFJ driver s license Assist with enrolling children in school 5

6 EXAMPLE SPONSOR WELCOME ABOARD LETTER (ACCOMPANIED) Welcome Aboard! Dear, I would like to welcome you and your family to (command/unit). Whether you ve been stationed here before or not, I think you ll be pleasantly surprised and will enjoy your tour of duty here. As your sponsor, I will make your transition as smooth as possible. Please notify me as soon as you know your flight number and date of arrival. If you haven t received the package from the command by (allow two weeks for delivery) you can also access this information online by visiting and clicking on the Relocation to Okinawa? located on the bottom of the webpage. From this site, you can download and complete the Advanced Housing Application, Newcomer s Information Booklet, Driver s Manual, etc. In addition, lots of other information pertaining to Okinawa, such as school information and other resources can be found at this site. I encourage you and your family to visit the nearest Marine and Family Programs Resources to receive information and assistance with your PCS move. The M&FPR is designed to provide support to all service members and their families who are relocating from one duty station to another. The highlight of the program is the computerized data system that contains current information on all military installations worldwide known as Military Homefront. The range of other assistance the Relocation Assistance Program offers is quite substantial: 1). Predeparture planning 2). Determining needs and priorities 3). Destination Information (Military Homefront) 4). Sponsorship Assistance 5). Automated Road Atlas 6). Relocation Workshops You have been slated for assignment to (command/unit). Your official mailing address will be : (complete organizational address). Your duty phone number will be : (DSN XXXXXXX), or commercially from the United States 01181XXXXX XXXX. Remember, this is a tentative assignment and may be changed by the needs of the command. I have also been notified that you are coming on an accompanied tour and will arrive in (Month). You will need an area clearance and a nofee passport for each member of your family, as well as medical screening for you and your family member(s). Additionally, please ensure that if you and your family member(s) have any requirements for prescription medical drugs/refills to have them entered 6

7 into their health records. If you have a family member with special education or medical needs, you must have that information reviewed by the suitability screener at your installation to be forwarded to the OSS for assignment consideration on Okinawa. This must be done prior to obtaining your area clearance. Personal records which you have should have in your immediate possession while enroute (unless procedures from detaching base prescribe otherwise) include: Service Record; dental and health records; original orders with all endorsements and modifications; area clearance; shot records; and passports. Also, add the following if applicable: original birth certificates; passports, marriage license, and school records. Your area clearance will provide modified weight allowances for shipment of household goods and a statement of available government provided furnishings. Please call or me with information on your family such as the ages and gender of children and whether you re bringing pets. This will assist me in ensuring transportation has been arranged from the airport to the lodging facility in which you will temporarily be staying until a housing assignment has been appointed. Additionally, please notify me once you have your port call information (date, time of arrival, and flight number) so that I can reserve temporary lodging for you and your family. I will also need your current address (military and civilian), mailing address, and phone number (to include your temporary leave address and phone number) along with two copies of your orders and area clearance. For your information, our local M&FPR are equipped with loan lockers in order to assist in bridging the gap from the time you arrive and receive your express shipment. If you think you will need anything in the line of kitchen equipment such as cups, plates, spoons, irons, car seats, etc. please notify me and I can secure these items for you for 30 days at no cost to you. If you access to , my address is. My mailing address is: Name: PSC Box FPO AP, Based on policy, base housing/billeting is mandatory for all accompanied personnel and unaccompanied personnel within the ranks of E1E7, W1W3, and O1O3. If you are wondering what size house and the number of bedrooms you will rate, please visit the following website: Housing is generally assigned in relation to where you will be working. Concerning your military dress, you must bring your full uniform allowance. The normal uniform of the day is. 7

8 Finally, you should be prepared for incidental expenses while enroute and upon arrival. You should have sufficient funds to cover food and shelter in the event you are delayed enroute. In addition, you should have sufficient funds to cover lodging/commissary/meals upon arrival, as TLA (for lodging only) is paid at the end of 10 days. You might want to consider requesting advanced TLA. I hope you find this information helpful. However, it is not allinclusive so I urge you to use the Relocation Assistance Program at your base M&FPR to discuss with trained personnel any other concerns or questions you might have in relation to your upcoming transition. Also, do not hesitate to call or write if you have any further questions. I look forward to meeting you and your family in person, and working with you as a member of our team. Sincerely, Signature 8

9 EXAMPLE SPONSOR WELCOME ABOARD LETTER (UNACCOMPANIED) Dear, Welcome Aboard! I would like to welcome you and your family to (command/unit). Whether you ve been stationed here before or not, I think you ll be pleasantly surprised and will enjoy your tour of duty here. As your sponsor, I will make your transition as smooth as possible. Please notify me as soon as you know your flight number and date of arrival. If you haven t received the package from the command by (allow two weeks for delivery), you can also access this information online by visiting and clicking on the Relocation to Okinawa? link located on the bottom of the webpage. From this site, you can download the Newcomer Information Booklet, Driver s Manual, Travel and Arrival Information, etc. In addition, lots of other information pertaining to Okinawa, such as a Photo Gallery and other resources can be found at this site. I encourage you to visit the nearest Marine and Family Programs Resources to receive information and assistance with your PCS move. The M&FPR is designed to provide assistance to all service members and their families who are relocating from one duty station to another. The highlight of the program is the computerized data system that contains current information on all military installations worldwide known as Military Homefront. The range of other assistance the Relocation Assistance Program offers is quite substantial: 1). Predeparture planning 2). Determining needs and priorities 3). Destination Information (Military Homefront) 4). Sponsorship Assistance 5). Automated Road Atlas 6). Relocation Workshops You have been slated for assignment to (command/unit). Your official mailing address will be : (complete organizational address). Your duty phone number will be : (DSN XXXXXXX), or commercially from the United States 01181XXXXX XXXX. Remember, this is a tentative assignment and may be changed by the needs of the command. I have also been notified that you are coming on an unaccompanied tour and will arrive in (Month). Personal records which you have should have in your immediate possession while enroute (unless procedures from detaching base prescribe otherwise) 9

10 include: Service Record; dental and health records; original orders with all endorsements and modifications and shot records Please notify me once you have your port call information (date, time of arrival, and flight number). The procedure at the airport for inbound Marines/Sailors/DoD civilians is (describe the processing procedure and how the Marine/Sailor/DoD civilian will get from the airport to the base).i will also need your current address (military and civilian), mailing address, and phone number (to include your temporary leave address and phone number) along with two copies of your orders. If you access to , my address is. My mailing address is: Based on policy, base housing/billeting is mandatory for all accompanied personnel and unaccompanied personnel within the ranks of E1E7, W1W3, and O1O3. Billeting is generally assigned in relation to where you will be working. Concerning your military dress, you must bring your full uniform allowance. The normal uniform of the day is. You should be prepared for incidental expenses while enroute and upon arrival. You should have sufficient funds to cover food and shelter in the event you are delayed enroute. In addition, you should have sufficient funds to cover for meals and other expenses upon arrival. I ll contact billeting and make reservations prior to your arrival. In addition, you should have sufficient funds to cover lodging (if billeting is full) as TLA (for lodging only) is paid at the end of 15 days. However, I ll let you know as soon as I make reservations so you have time to prepare yourself financially. Finally, plan on attending Newcomer s Orientation/JRC soon after your arrival. This is a mandatory brief, but it is extremely useful and full of good information about policies, programs, ands services here in the local area, both on and off base. Local policy may dictate that attendance to this brief is required for certain base privileges such as acquiring a POV license. As soon as I receive your arrival information, I can schedule you to attend this brief. I hope you find this information helpful. However, it is not allinclusive so I urge you to use the Relocation Assistance Program at your base M&FPR to discuss with trained personnel any other concerns or questions you might have in relation to your upcoming transition. Also, do not hesitate to call or write if you have any further questions. I look forward to meeting you and your family in person, and working with you as a member of our team. Sincerely, Sponsor s Name 10

11 EXAMPLE SPONSOR WELCOME ABOARD LETTER (Navy) Dear Hi, I'm Petty Officer and I'm delighted to be your sponsor here at. I will do my best to make your transition to Okinawa a pleasant one. I am sure you are excited about your upcoming move and must have many questions and concerns about the command and the area, especially if this is your first command. Being quite familiar with this area, I would be more than happy to answer specific questions or just explain other items of concern to you. If I don't know the answer, I'll find out and get back to you. Also, you may check for information on planning your move and learning about your new destination. The base is actually located in, a small city about minutes from the airport. I'll be there to pick you and your family up, so as soon as you can, please send me your flight information. To help us assess your needs and verify that you have received this letter, please contact the Command Sponsor Coordinator or me promptly. Fill out the enclosed Prospective Gain Questionnaire and return in the envelope provided. Here is my contact information: Mailing address: Work telephone number DSN: Fax: Home telephone number: I may be contacted at home between (0000) and (0000) (use 24 hour clock, time zone information, and explain the difference between +/ their local time). Sincerely, Sponsor s Name 11

12 ELECTRONIC WELCOME ABOARD PACKAGE (EWAP) (Provides a detailed description of Newcomer s information that can be found on the website Marines, Sailors and Family Members, Yokoso Okinawa e (Welcome to Okinawa)! Please review for all of your necessary relocation assistance needs before, during, and after your arrival on Okinawa, Japan. Upon viewing the website, access the tabs on the left side of the screen. The tabs are labeled: 1.) "Welcome" Contains a brief synopsis of Okinawa U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy Okinawa command elements. 2.) "Newcomers Information Booklet" The Camp S.D. Butler Newcomers Information Booklet contains must know installation information topics such as housing, commissary, exchange, transportation, education, employment, medical and dental information, survival tips, local community, youth & teen programs and much more. 3.) "Marine and Family Programs Resources" Provides Relocation Assistance, Information, Readiness and Referral, Personal Financial Management, Family Member Employment and Cultural Adaptation programs. 4.) "Newcomers' Orientation Welcome Aboard (NOWA)" All newly arrived accompanied (all ranks) USMC and USN, family members (military and civilian) age 10 and up, all unaccompanied USMC and USN personnel (E6 and above) and civilian (all grades) are required to attend within 2 weeks of arrival. To register for NOWA please call Note: NOWA IS MANDATORY IN ACCORDANCE WITH MCBJO D. ATTENDANCE MUST BE CONFIRMED PRIOR TO MCB SAFETY OFFICE WILL ISSUE THE SOFA POV DRIVER'S LICENSE. 5.) "Driving and Transportation" Contains all relevant United States Forces Japan (USFJ) SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) Vehicle and Transportation information to include the Driver s Manual and Road signs for driving in Okinawa and obtaining a SOFA license. Service Members, regardless of rank, under the age of 26 must complete the webbased Driver s Improvement Course online at Marine Net, Marine On Line, or Navy Knowledge OnLine. Access the training under the Driving for Life Tab. Marines and Sailors may also take the classroom version of this course through Base Safety by calling /2039 to register. 12

13 Corporal s and below must also take a one day Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) course before being issued a license. Please coordinate with the S3 to register for this course. 6.) "School and Childcare" Presents school information, photos of Dodd s Okinawa schools, registration package, information on School Liaison Office, MCCS Youth and Teen/Child Care Program and registration package contents, parent handbook, and sample youth sponsorship letters. 7.) "Photo of Okinawa" OnBase/OffBase Photo Galleries of Okinawa. 8.) "Travel and Arrival Information" Covers arrival at Naha/AMC Kadena Air Base, Travelers Tips, Pet Information, Housing Information. 9.) Housing & Pets provides indepth information about the pet importation process and its requirements. For best results, we recommend that you refer to the websites listed below, in particular, the Japan District Veterinary Command website. The importation process is described in detail and all necessary forms and contact information can be found there, as well as links to the Government of Japan website on animal importation. ly/marine_and_family_programs Resources/Weclome_Aboard_Okinawa/petinformation.pdf ) Housing & Pets also contain information about the process of obtaining housing. The government housing application can be ed to the DoD Housing Office prior to arrival. To apply for government housing in advance, or your application to Kadenahousing.customerservice@kadena.af.mil and keep a copy of the forwarded for your records. The housing application form DD1746 is also located on our website. The housing application may also be faxed to the following number: DSN: or commercially from stateside dial Whether ing or faxing the housing application, please submit along with a copy of your orders and place to the attention of customer service. Addition information that can found under this tab are the U.S. Marine Corps and U.S Navy Sponsorship Request Forms, the Getting Settled Made Easy Appointment Booklet, Sponsorship Checklist, and Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) Information. 13

14 9.) "MCCS Publications" View the MCCS publications to include: "Okinawa Living", "Okinawa Guide", and "Okinawa Outdoors". 10.) "Videos" View the "Welcome Aboard to MCB Butler", "Welcome to Okinawa" and "Water Safety" video materials online. 11.) "Helpful Links" Major Command website addresses and other helpful web site links. OVERSEAS SUITABILITY SCREENING (OSS) PROCESS FOR FAMILY MEMBERS Upon receipt of PCS orders to Okinawa, service members with accompanied orders must start the OSS process for their family member. This process involves medical and dental screenings which will identify if the family member(s) has medical and dental needs and if the US Naval Hospital Okinawa will have the resources to take care of them. The service member s losing command can provide information about the OSS process. In addition, he or she can obtain more information about this process and the forms to be completed by visiting the following website: For any questions, please contact the Okinawa Overseas Screening Committee at: DSN: or Commercial: Fax DSN: Fax Commercial: NHOkiOSS@med.navy.mil or NHOKIOverseasScreeningCoordinator@med.navy.mil Once the family member completes the OSS process and is found SUITABLE to come to Okinawa, their paperwork must be submitted to IPAC/area clearance coordinator. Area clearance cannot be approved until the OSS process is completed. 14

15 AREA CLEARANCE / DEPENDENT ENTRY APPROVAL (For Accompanied Tour Only) Member must have an approved area clearance / dependent entry approval before departing to Okinawa. Service member should not detach from the loosing command until his/ her family has received an area clearance. Entitlements that require Area Clearance: Post Office box Use of onbase Family Child Care Program Base Housing Receiving Cost of Living Allowance at the dependant rate Temporary lodging entitlements SOFA Driver s License (for Dependents) Onbase employment (for Dependents) Medical/Dental Priority attendance at Department of Defense Schools If a family arrives in Okinawa without an approved clearance, the sponsor will be responsible for major financial cost since the family does not qualify for the entitlements mentioned. In addition, if the area clearance is denied after the family member s arrival, the service may be required to change his/her orders and ERD (Early Return of Dependents). Therefore, please ensure that the inbound service member is informed about this process. Notes to sponsors: Request a copy of area clearance from the inbound service member Check if the document is the APPROVED Area Clearance and not the requestthe approval should be multiple pages. Continue to follow up/track the Area Clearance request to ensure an approval message is sent/received. Some reasons Area Clearance Request is delayed include: not enough service obligation remaining, incomplete medical and dental screening, missing forms, etc. Area Clearance Points of Contact: Marines: Cpl McCann, Jacob, IPAC Inbound Section, Or contact IPAC Inbound Section at jacob.mccann@usmc.mil Also handles green side Navy Personnel. Navy: PS1 Blackstock, Charlene, PSC Inbound, / Charlene.Blackstock@fe.navy.mil 15

16 Relocating with Exceptional Family Members The MCCS Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is mandated by MCO B and OPNAV A to assist service members and their families in providing for the special needs of their Exceptional Family Member before, during and after relocation required by a change of duty station. This program is designed to improve the quality of life of the affected families and provide procedures and guidelines to facilitate appropriate assignment of EFM sponsors. The goal of this program is to reduce family stress or hardship while minimizing the need for costly reassignments, especially OCONUS transfers, due to the nonavailability of adequate services. Role of Sponsor Ensure the family been screened by the Overseas Screening Committee (OSC) at the losing and gaining MTF and have an Area Clearance prior to scheduling DMO. Have the Service member send you a copy of the Area Clearance Provide the family with the contact information for the MCCS EFMP Staff on Okinawa to ensure the following is coordinated: Housing liaison for special needs family member (educational) Overseas Screening has been completed Moving Checklist: Hand carry copies of all medical & educational records o Individual Family Specialized Plan o Individual Education Plan o EFMP Paperwork (most recent) Refill Prescriptions (at least 3 months) Contact information for current doctors/educators. Complete a Needs Assessment form (ask losing EFMP Case Worker) For a complete moving checklist visit the MCCS EFMP webpage: 16

17 Resources: MCCS Okinawa EFMP website: Military Homefront website: Military OneSource website: Specialized Training Of Military Parents (S.T.O.M.P.) website: Exceptional Parents: Please contact the Marine Corps Exceptional Family Member Program Coordinator at or the Navy EFMP Coordinator at for more information. 17

18 PET INFORMATION The following are requirements for importing pets into Japan. The total preparation process takes approximately 7 months to complete and must be done in the below order: (1) Microchip implanting: During import inspection at the time of arrival in Japan, if the microchip number is not confirmed or the microchip number is not the same as that on the inspection certificate, the animal will be subjected to a 180day quarantine period or may be rejected to enter Japan. (2) Rabies immunization (dogs and cats): Time of vaccination: after microchip implantation Dogs or cats must be at least 91 days old at the time of immunization. Furthermore, the second inoculation shall be conducted at least 30 days after the first and within the effective period of the first immunization. Moreover, if the date of arrival in Japan is past the effective immunization period, please conduct booster immunization. (3) Serological test: For rabies neutralizing antibody (dogs and cats) Time of blood sampling: After completion of microchip insertion and 2 or more rabies immunizations (see above), and within the effective immunization period of the last inoculation. (4) 180Day Quarantine: Waiting period before export after confirmation of antibody presence (dogs and cats) In order to reduce the detention period to 12 hours or less at the time of arrival in Japan, the dog or cat is advised to arrive in Japan more than 180 days and less than 2 years from the blood sampling date as described in the previous section. If the animal arrives in Japan before the passage of 180 days since the date of the blood sample, detention will be required for the insufficient number of days at an Animal Quarantine Station. Note: If the rabies immunization period is exceeded during the waiting period, you must have the animal given booster immunization (refer to Section 1 (2)). (5) Advance notification: Any person intending to import an animal covered by this document (hereafter, importer ) must submit a notification to the Animal Quarantine Station with jurisdiction over the airport (seaport) of planned arrival at least 40 days before the arrival of the ship or airplane carrying the animal by FAX or mail. In addition, please inform us at the time of providing the Notification if the importer desires to put the animals that are to be kept in quarantine for more than 18

19 12 hours after arrival in Japan at a Animal Quarantine Service detention facility other than that of the Animal Quarantine Station with jurisdiction over the airport (seaport) of arrival. (For detention facility locations, please refer to Section 3(2)). (6) Approval of import inspection of animals: At the time of pet import, the receipt number will be necessary, so please make a careful note of it. And you will be required to show the Approval of import inspection of animals by airline / ship staff when you check in or you ship your pets. (7) Clinical inspection before departure: Ten days before departure (2 days or less before boarding, as possible), have a veterinarian give the pet a clinical inspection to confirm that it does not have or is not suspected of having rabies (in the case of dogs, rabies and leptospirosis) (refer to Section 1 (8)). (8) Obtaining a health certification The importer shall obtain a health certificate issued by the responsible exporting country government agency and submit it to the Animal Quarantine Station at the time of arrival in Japan. If the animal does not pass the import inspection upon arrival it will be subjected up to 180 day quarantine. This quarantine is authorized: In on base housing (dogs are authorized on the first and second floors while cats are authorized on all floors at the highrise towers) In the housing unit only (Not outdoors) If you take the animal out of the unit it needs to be for a short amount of time (to use the bathroom); it needs to be on a short leash. No contact with any other animal (Dogs and Cats) or person is allowed. Karing Kennels An authorized site in Naha The U.S. Army Veterinary Clinic at Kadena Air Base offers animal care service, which includes immunizations, general medical care and minor surgery. Dirofilariasis (heartworm disease) is a major problem on Okinawa. It is recommended that all dogs arriving on Okinawa should be on a heartworm preventative before arrival. Birds are authorized entry providing they are not on the endangered species list, and a certificate of ownership and place of purchase if available. Pet Transportation Pet and container, with a combined weight of more than 150 pounds will not be accepted shipment on AMC flights. Animals over the limit must be transported 19

20 by commercial airline. If it is temperature is 85 O F or more or 10 O F or below, the pet will not be able to fly commercially. Frequently Asked Questions Q. What will happen if my dog arrives in Japan without microchips fitted? A. If the dog arrives without the microchip, it will be considered to not have the proper certificate and will be refused entry. Q. The animals have received rabies vaccination but have not been fitted with a microchip. Will this be acceptable? A. Any immunization against rabies carried out prior to the insertion of the microchip will not be accepted. Please be sure to have the animals vaccinated twice and tested for antibody levels only after the microchip is inserted. Q. Please explain the rationale behind the measurement of antibody levels and the 180 day wait. A. Antibody levels are measured in order to confirm whether or not the animal has developed immunity to rabies. The reason for the wait is to make sure that the animal has not contracted rabies prior to developing immunity to it as a result of immunization. 180 days corresponds to the incubation period for the disease. FOR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS RELATING TO YOUR PET COMING TO OKINAWA PLEASE THE VETERANARIAN DIRECTLY AT okinawavet@kadena.af.mil Kadena Veterinarian Clinic Website: Karing Kennels (Aboard Kadena) Website: Karing Kennels is the only government approved pet quarantine facility on Okinawa. Kenneling Fees for Dogs and Cats: 1 Dog 2 Dogs 1 Cat 2 Cats $25.00/night $40.00/night $20.00/night $35.00/night $150/week $ $120.00/week $210.00/week *Service members may save 10% on kenneling fees by presenting their Air Force Club Card at the time service. *Service member may be reimbursed up to $550 of quarantine expense with mandatory quarantine letter from Animal Customs. 20

21 OffBase Kennel Information (The Below Kennels Are Not Authorized For Quarantine) The Pet Box OffBase Number: Dog and Cats No insurance Fee per night 2000 or about $24.00 Small pets only Koza Kennel OffBase Number: (Behind the Plaza House Shopping Center) Dog must be at least one year old Dog must be vaccinated House Veterinarian Advanced payment required 2,000 3,000 or $24.00 $36.00 No insurance It is recommended that you use an interpreter when negotiating services from off base facilities. The M&FP Resources Center has Cultural Specialists that may provide some assistance with translation. IMPORTANT REQUIREMENTS FOR ANIMALS ENTERING JAPAN If you are bringing pet(s) to Okinawa, we look forward to providing for their care at the US Army, Okinawa Branch Services located on Kadena AB. To make the trip as easy as possible, please follow these requirements for cats and dogs traveling to Japan. If you are traveling with a pet other than a cat or dog, we recommend that you contact the Embassy of Japan or a Japanese Consulate for specific requirements for that pet. Note: This handout highlights points of importing pets. For full details, please refer to the Importing Pets into Japan Booklet by visiting: Pets in Housing Only two animals are authorized in on base housing units. It s important to remember that pets (other than aquatic animals) can delay, and in some cases, impede assignments to onbase quarters. There may be some difficulty finding off base housing that will accept pets but it does exist. 21

22 BANNED DOG BREEDS According to AFI _AFGM2 and MCBJO , certain dog breeds are prohibited in all Military Family Housing (MFH) on Okinawa. In addition the Memorandum for all MFH in Okinawa ( combines the restricted breeds and identifies them as follows: Pit Bull (full or mixed breed) Rottweiler Canidwolf hybrid (full or mixed breed) Doberman Pincher (full or mixed breed) Chow (full or mixed breed) Military Family Housing is administered by the Air Force Submit Advance Housing Application Eligible personnel (36 months accompanied tour) should submit an Advance Housing Application (Form DD 1746) to notify the Housing Management Office. Newcomers should report to the housing office within 2 days after arriving on island. Remember to take a copy of Orders and Area Clearance/Dependent Entry Approval to this appointment. Base Housing Offices Kadena Marine Liaison /0805 Camp Kinser Camp Courtney Members submitting an application before arrival can submit the application via with a copy of their web orders in order to establish themselves in the housing database. kadenahousing.customerservice@us.af.mil *Direct all housing documents to the attention of Customer Service. In addition, all personnel applying for housing must report to the housing office within two working days of their arrival to Okinawa for inprocessing. Currently, there are three housing offices. The main housing office resides on Kadena Air Base and will be used by service members in the central location (Foster, Lester, Kadena). The satellite offices reside on Camps Kinser and Courtney. Members assigned to MCAS Futenma or Camp Kinser will utilize the Camp Kinser office. 22

23 Members assigned to Camps Hansen, Schwab and Courtney will utilize the Camp Courtney Office. Below is the housing office numbers and schedule for inprocessing briefs and offbase briefs. To ensure a seat, sponsors must schedule this brief in advance or the inbound service member can do it upon arrival. Members given permission to reside off base will have to attend a mandatory offbase housing briefing. For these briefings, service members must bring a copy of their original orders and approved area clearance if they were not submitted initially with their advance housing application. Kadena Housing Office (Bldg 217), telephone: Inprocessing briefs are held Monday Friday at Offbase briefs are held Monday and Friday at Kinser Satellite Office (Bldg 107, Room 234), telephone: Inprocessing briefs are held MondayFriday at Offbase briefs are currently conducted oneonone due to lack of staffing. Courtney Satellite Office (Bldg 4460), telephone: Inprocessing combined with offbase briefs are held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at 0830 for accompanied personnel. Offbase briefs are on Wednesdays at for unaccompanied personnel that have approval to reside offbase. For Housing Issues or to obtain ExceptiontoPolicy Letters Marine Liaison GySgt Conrad Bidal conrad.bidal@us.af.mil DSN: / 0114 Stateside: / is the new housing website. All branches of service will be able to access this site, at work and at home. The Okinawa MFH website is still live, but according to the new guidance effective May 1, 2012, will be used as the sole resource for Air Force housing information. Off BaseHousing For a comprehensive list of authorized offbase housing agencies, please visit the Kadena housing office. The offbase referral office distributes information on many different housing agencies. In addition, if the service member desires to 23

24 rent a place offbase that is already furnished, he/she can obtain a list from the housing referral office. For more information, call /0097/0099. The averages offbase housing rental costs are: 1BR $1500 2BR $1800 3BR $2500 4BR $3000 Rental deposit and agency fees normally equal three months rent. To View Housing Agencies and Available Housing visit:

25 Financial Institution Contact Information Navy Federal Credit Union Foster Courtney Hansen Schwab Kinser Futenma Community Bank Foster Courtney Hansen Kinser Schwab Kadena Torii Station Pentagon Federal Credit Union Kadena LONG DISTANCE PHONE OPTIONS 1. Vonage or Skype 3. Magic Jack (can also be found in Exchange stores) 25

26 Employment Assistance Employment opportunities for family members accompanying service members are limited on Okinawa. The kinds of jobs available on base are in the following categories: Appropriated Funds CHRO (MCB Civilian Human Resource Office) For Army, Air Force and Navy APF jobs on Okinawa, most can be viewed through USAJOBS DODDs School System: NonAppropriated Funds which include: MCCS (Marine Corps Community Services) Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Navy MWR 18 th Services Army MWR Off Base Employment Contract Employment For a more detailed list of employers, and/or assistance in obtaining employment, please visit the Transition Assistance / Family Member Assistance program at any Marine & Family Programs Resources Center. TAMP / FMEAP provides: Resource library Assistance on completing federal employment applications and resumes and accompanying letters Workshops on the local job search Island job information fair and federal employment TAMP/FMEAP CONTACT INFORMATION Camp Foster Camp Courtney Camp Hansen Camp Kinser Camp Schwab

27 Is Spouse Employed Stateside? If so, they may qualify for PCSrelated unemployment benefits. For more information, please visit the Military Spouse Community Network at o Scroll down to bottom of the page to Unemployment Compensation: A StatebyState Guide o Click on the state of stateside employment o Each state s rules may differ DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMANT OFFICES (DMO) Camp Foster Customer Service Bldg /0413/5314 Camp Courtney Bldg /5801 Camp Hansen Bldg /4337 Camp Kinser Bldg /4740 Kadena Air Force Base Bldg Marine Liaison Kadena DMO /2714 If newcomers made a personal property shipment to Okinawa, have them checkin with DMO as soon as possible. When checkingin with DMO bring the copies of DMO paper work (1299 form) and orders. 27

28 OKINAWA IS WEIGHT RESTRICTED! The weight allowance is established under provisions of the Joint Federal Travel Regulations (JFTR) and is the maximum weight that can be moved on government expense. 2,500 pounds (net) or 25 % (net) of the JFTR weight allowance, whichever is greater, plus UB transportation for Accompanied Service Members 10% for Unaccompanied Service Members Let the inbound service member know that neither the Distribution Management Office (DMO) nor the carriers are responsible for staying within this allowance. If a service member exceeds his/her allowance, the service member must pay all charges connected with the excess weight. For any exceptions regarding this policy, contact DMO Office. For more information pertaining to JFTR allowances, please visit: Shipment of Motorcycles/Mopeds greater than 250CC to Mainland Japan and Okinawa 1. The Government of Japan (GOJ) has imposed a requirement that motorcycles/mopeds over 250CC manufactured 1 July 1999 or later, must comply with GOJ brake standards. In addition to the brake testing requirement, motorcycles/mopeds over 250CC, manufactured 1 April 2001 or later, must pass GOJ emission testing and meet emission control standards. 2. The estimated minimum costs for the brake testing is about $2000 and about $725 for the emission testing. These are separate requirements (Subject to manufactured dates and failure to meet compliance standards places the owner in a situation to expend additional funds. The additional cost of meeting GOJ s standards is subject to the various equipment types and models and the degree of difficulty in meeting compliance. There is only one brake testing facility (located in Tokyo) and three emission facilities (two located in Tokyo and one in Osaka). There are no brake or emission testing facilities on Okinawa; therefore, all motorcycles/mopeds falling into the above manufactured dates category are not permitted to be shipped to Okinawa. 3. Motorcycles/mopeds must be insured and cannot be driven to testing facility, unless it has a temporary registration tag. 4. US Forces Japan is currently coordinating with GOJ on the particulars of additional costs and requirements when shipping motorcycles/mopeds into Japan. 5. Due to the extreme GOJ compliance costs members will incur, the shipment of motorcycles/mopeds into Japan is highly discouraged. Counselors should 28

29 encourage members to place their motorcycles/mopeds into nontemporary storage as household goods for the duration of their tour. 6. The Personal Property Consignment Instructions Guide, Volume II, General Instructions for Japan, will be changed to include GOJ s braking and emission testing requirements. 7. Contact your local DMO office for specific questions. (See page 53 for phone numbers) GOVERNMENT FURNITURE Furniture is provided for accompanied or command sponsored personnel. On and off base housing furnishings may include: 1 Double bed, mattress, headboard and frame 1 Twin bed per dependent, mattress, headboard and frame Bunk bed with ladder, mattresses, and rail for qualifying personnel 1 Chest of drawers per person 1 Dresser or desk per occupied bedroom Night stands (2 for master bedroom/1 per other bedrooms) Up to 2 Desks and chairs 1 Dining table w/6 dining chairs, 4 without arms and 2 with arms 1 China cabinet 1 Buffet 1 Sofa 2 Easy chairs 2 End tables 1 Coffee table 2 Bookcases 1 Mirror per dresser or wall mirror (in place of) Appliances listed below are provided to accompanied personnel or command sponsored personnel living off base, if needed: Refrigerator Range Washer/Dryer Transformer, one per household All onbase housing includes the following appliances: Refrigerator Stove/range Washer & Dryer Dishwasher Garbage disposal 29

30 For more information on government furniture, please call Off Base Government Furniture Not available for Marines w/ unaccompanied orders Available for Unaccompanied Navy (CFAO/CFAO Tenant command personnel ONLY) Must have lease & orders Requires the Single Sailor Loaner Furniture Letter signed CFAO Command Master Chief For more information contact: or Suggestions for Express Shipment 27 TV or smaller, VCR, or DVD Player and a few favorite tapes or DVDs (tapes come in handy) Baby Cribs (this is the only furniture that can be shipped in the express shipment) Lamps and Fans Bedding (Double & twin size sheets, blanket, pillows) Linens (enough to make it through the week. Avoids frequent trips to the laundry) Set of dishes (enough for the entire family to use) Pots & Pans, cooking utensils Mixing bowls, colander Measuring cups & spoons Coffee maker Laundry basket, ironing board, iron Microwave Clothing (pack a combination of clothing to include a warm jacket as weather varies dramatically CD/DVD player and plenty of CDs/ DVDs (selection is limited to the current releases) Space heater (majority of offbase housing have no builtin heating) Children s items (toys) Throw rugs and a few carpets (tile over concrete is the standard floor here) Any other essential items needed within the first 4560 days 30

31 Suggestions for Household Goods Shipment Anything they will need to live on for 3 years Lawn mowers, weed eaters (for duplex, multiplex and single family homes) Check through the furniture list on the housing pages to save weight Keep books to a minimum unless part of a professional pack Photo albums are encouraged 3 years is a long time away from family Additional end tables are sometimes helpful Videotapes, cassettes, DVDs, etc. Loan Locker This service is provided by any of the Marine & Family Programs Resources Center and is available to accompanied, unaccompanied and DOD civilian personnel. Basic kitchen utensils and household items are provided to incoming and outgoing personnel. Complete dish packs are loaned out for 30 days and may be extended an additional 30 days if needed. A copy of the service member s orders is required in order to check out loan closet items. The assigned sponsor may checkout these items in advance. The following is a list of items available in the loan closet: *Dish packs *Ironing Boards Coffee Maker Car seats *Irons *Highchairs *Toasters Strollers *These items are provided by on base TLFs 31

32 Okinawa Enlisted Spouses Club, Thrift Shop and Uncle Sam's Attic Thrift Shop Bucks (TSB) All E1 through E4 Service Members are encouraged to stop by the Thrift Shop and Uncle Sam s Attic to get their Thrift Shop Bucks (TSB) Single and Married (soldiers/marines/sailors/airmen) w/no children receive $40.00 TSB per month to spend in the Thrift Shop Married & Single Parents (soldiers/marines/sailors/airmen) w/children receive $80.00 TSB per month to spend in the Thrift Shop Directions: Go in Kadena Air Base Gate Two, proceed to Douglas Blvd, then turn right on Douglas Blvd proceed to Collusion Ave, and turn left. Thrift shop will be on right. Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9 a.m. 2 p.m. Thursday 11a.m 7 p.m. Location: Kadena Bldg 859 Phone:

33 IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS The following is a list of documents that are essential for Newcomers to have with them upon arrival. These documents SHOULD NOT be packed in checkin luggage, but should be handcarried in a briefcase or carryon bag. PCS orders (original and several copies) Area clearance/dependent entry approval (original and several copies) Passports (one for each person traveling) Identification card for each person Valid Drivers licenses or permits Immunization records for service members and each family member traveling Medical & dental records Original birth certificates Naturalization paperwork Social security cards (including children) Marriage licenses and/or divorce decrees All educational documentation Deeds and titles to all real estate or other property (tax purposes) Shipping and storage documents for your household goods Insurance policies Adoption papers Wills and power of attorneys State and federal income tax returns Exceptional Family Member Program Documentation Family Care Plans 33

34 SIGNUP FOR NOWA (ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY) In accordance with MCBJO D, all Navy and Marine Corps accompanied members, E6 and above unaccompanied members, DoD civilians and children 10 years and above must attend Newcomers Orientation Welcome Aboard (NOWA). Call the Marine & Family Programs Resources / / / / to signup for the NOWA or send us an at All attendees should bring extra copies of their orders and area clearance, if accompanied, so they complete the Tricare enrollment at the NOWA. Bus transportation is provided to and from Camp Foster s WestPac Lodge, Hamagawa Lodge and Eagle Lodge (both offbase) with advance signup. The bus will also make stops at the Child Development Center and SchoolAged Care Program for children utilizing childcare in connection with NOWA. All unaccompanied E1E5 Navy (except CFAO/CFAO Tenant units) and Marine Corps personnel will receive their newcomer s brief at the Joint Reception Center (JRC), located in Camp Foster, Bldg 496. JRC will act as their initial sponsor. Upon completion of JRC and assignment to a unit, the command should designate a sponsor. JRC Phone: /2604/7216. Free Childcare is Available for NOWA!! To obtain free childcare for NOWA, please request as soon as you obtain the newcomer s Port call date. Please read instructions on how to obtain child care on the following page. Childcare is provided on a limited spaceavailable basis, and must be coordinated in advance through the Children, Youth and Teen Program. The newcomer needs to complete and submit the Newcomers Orientation Registration Packet, take it along with the child s shot records to the Resource and Referral Office, located in Camp Foster Building 495. Provide Resource and Referral what day the newcomer will be attending NOWA. The Childcare Registration Package must be completed and submitted by 1300 the day prior to attending NOWA to Childcare Registration Services at Camp Foster Building

35 You can also submit the package via to For more information please call (For Sponsors): Follow steps 15 below, and click on CYTP Newcomer to obtain Newcomers Orientation Cover Sheet. (For Parents): The Newcomer s Childcare Registration packet can also be found online following the below directions: 1. Go to: 2. Click on the tab Marine and Family located on the top of page. 3. Scroll down and under Family Care, click on Resource & Referral 4. Then, you ll see the link NEWCOMERS on the bottom of the page 5. Ask the family to complete this package. 6. Any questions regarding this process or the package, please contact Resource and Referral, Phone: DSN: or Commercial: ResourceReferral@okinawa.usmcmccs.org * Members can register unborn children by using this format also* Need FullTime Childcare? Due to the competitive nature of childcare vacancies, families are highly encouraged to register for fulltime childcare online at Once at the website, click on the Marine and Family link and then Resource and Referral. Registering online is beneficial as the application will backdate to the day the application was submitted. Also, it gives priority to Dual and Single Active duty military families and dual employed families. Enrollment forms may also be obtained online using the above directions. *Parents also need to download and complete the health assessment. This can be done stateside. 35

36 Children s physicals and health assessments can also be completed stateside. Marine Corps Bases: CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS (CDC) The hours of operation for resource and referral representatives at the Child Development Center are as follows: Family Child Care Registration (walkin) Center Waiting List Registration (walkin) Official Center Placements (appointment needed) Waiting List Inquiries (call in) Camp Foster Child Development Center /3846 Monday Friday, Camp Foster, Bldg. 499 Camp Courtney Child Development Center /7761 Monday Friday, Camp Courtney, Bldg Camp Kinser Child Development Center /2293 Monday Friday, Camp Kinser, Bldg. 864 Services available include: Fulltime care Hourly car 36

37 Kadena Air Force Base: Child Development Resource and Referral Monday Friday, Kadena AB, Bldg. 220 Shima Noko (PreSchool) Monday Friday, Kadena AB, Bldg Wakaba Child Development Center Monday Friday, Kadena AB, Bldg. 132 Niko Niko Monday Friday, Kadena AB, Bldg. 334 Before and After School Program Monday Friday Kadena AB, Bldg

38 Establish a Post Office Box A post office box should be set up at the nearest post office for all accompanied military personnel & civilians. Copies of the orders and area clearance (USMC) or dependant entry approval (USN) are required to set up the post office box. Most unaccompanied active duty personnel will receive mail via their battalion/unit address. Once the post office box is established, forward the new address to the newcomer so they may begin submitted address change requests and be able to send mail to themselves, if they desire to do so. Mail will normally be held for fortyfive days. Circuitous Travel Used when service members elect to purchase their own ticket via commercial travel to or from Okinawa in expectation of later reimbursement from the government. Must be preapproved by Headquarters Marine Corps MMIA Must Use U.S Certified Carrier in order to be reimbursed! America West American Alaska Airlines Delta Spirit Airlines United Northwest US Airways Continental Hawaiian Airlines Sun Country Airlines Please note there may be a possible airport change when flying into Narita International Airport if the followon travel to Okinawa is through Haneda International Airport. Passengers will have to claim luggage, purchase a ticket for 3500 per person on the Airport Limousine Bus service and take a shuttle to Haneda which is approximately 1.5 hours away. Major airlines traveling into Japan: American Airlines Japan: Continental Airlines Japan:

39 Japan Airlines United Airlines Japan: Northwest Airlines Japan: Delta Airlines Japan: **To view a complete list of airlines and their pet transporting regulations, go to: Reserve Temporary Lodging or Billeting Ensure that newly reporting accompanied personnel confirm initial MCCS TLF reservations for a maximum of 30 days in length. Reservations can be made up to 1 year in advance. Please make sure that reservations are secured prior to 30 days out because at that time, Space available reservations will be taken. Copies of the permanent change of station orders and area clearance or dependant entry approval are required upon checkin. TEMPORARY LODGING FACILITIES (TLF) (ONBASE) THERE ARE NO PETS ALLOWED IN ANY OF THE MARINE CORPS BASE MILITARY LODGING FACILITIES. Westpac Lodging (Located on Camp Foster) Single Room Suite w/adjoining rooms Queen Parlor Suite $90.00 a day or $ for 15 days $ a day or $ for 15 days $ a day or $ for 15 days Courtney Lodge (Located across from the baseball field near the housing office) Suite $75.00 a day or $ for 15 days All rooms at the Westpac and Courtney Lodge have televisions. DVDs and Playstation games are available at the front desk for free check out. The rooms also include a refrigerator, stove w/ two burners, iron & ironing board. Cribs and playpens are provided upon request. Free use of the washers and dryers are available in the facility. After 1700, keys need to be picked up at the Camp Duty Office. 39

40 Hansen Lodge (Located down the street from Burger King, adjacent to 12 th Marine HQ BN) Single Room w/ Shared Bathroom Suite $30.00 a day or $ for 15 days $50.00 a day or $ for 15 days All rooms have a television, with DVD available upon request. The rooms include refrigerator, microwave, iron and ironing board. Cribs and playpens are provided upon request. Free washer and dryers are available in the facility. No internet is available. After 1700, keys need to be picked up at the Palms Cash Cage. Shogun Inn /01 (Located on Kadena Air Base) Family room $42.00 a day or $ for 15 days Single room $24.50 a day or $ for 15 days *Shogun Inn has 8 rooms that allow pets.* 1 PCS reservations are available up to 1 year in advance. 2 Maximum length of PCS reservations will be 20 days as of March 1 st. Extensions beyond the 20 days can be made depending upon availability. It is evident from our occupancy statistics that our patrons are now getting housing and checking out within 2 weeks of their stay. We need to adjust our reservation procedures to keep up with the changing dynamics of the housing market. 3 A credit card is needed to hold most reservations. We suggest that your Newcomer call with that information. 4 Newcomers need their orders and area clearance at time of checkin. Checkout time is TEMPORARY LODGING FACILITIES (OFF BASE) American Kadena Hotel Asia Hotel /3501 Beach Tower *Cats Inn Century Hotel Crown Hotel Diego Hotel *Eagle Lodge Ekka Hotel Grand Mer/Tokyo Dai Ichi Hotel *Hamagawa Lodge Hotel New Century Intermark Mansion Kasuga Kanko Hotel Kitahama Hotel

41 Kyoto Kannko Hotel Laguna Garden Hotel Moon Beach Hotel Morimar Condominium Renaissance Okinawa Hotel Seaside Hotel Sunabe Housing Inn Sunrise Hotel Terrace Garden Mihama Resort Western Hotel Yoshida Hotel *Allow Pets The average cost for off base lodging is $ or 15,000 Yen per day or $ or Yen for 15 days. (Ask for hotel pet policy when making reservations.) Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) TLA is authorized to assist the service member in partially offsetting expenses incurred during the occupancy of temporary lodging. There is no entitlement to TLA while in a travel status or once permanent quarters are occupied. TLA is contingent upon 1. Marines must utilize a government TLF (i.e., WestPac, Courtney or Hansen Lodge) unless a Certificate of NonAvailability (CNA) is obtained stating that the facility closest to their place of work is not available for occupancy. 2. If the member chooses to stay at an off base TLF and does not provide a CNA from the on base TLF, then the member's lodging reimbursement under TLA will be limited to the government TLF rate, not the rate of the off base TLF. 3. Upon arrival, Navy personnel should check with their personnel support detachment for current guidelines. On base temporary lodging facilities are normally limited to thirty days maximum. For a family of four, the base facilities will cost approximately $ per day (lodging only). To obtain directions to any of these facilities from your port of entry, please ask your sponsor or contact the lodging facility directly. An off base TLF listing is available at most on base lodging facilities, which will assist in determining what facility meets your needs in the event off base lodging is required. 41

42 There are NO PETS (Dogs & Cats) ALLOWED in any of the on base military lodging facilities, so personnel will be required to obtain lodging on the local economy. A statement of nonavailability will not be provided for due to pets. There is no TLA entitlement for single service members or service members on an unaccompanied tour, unless the Billeting Office has issued a CNA. If a member arrives ahead of (or without dependents) he/she must reside in the BEQ/BOQ (Billeting). If billeting is not available, a Certificate of NonAvailability (CNA) must be obtained from billeting prior to occupying temporary lodging facilities. Failure to do so will result in denied reimbursement for TLA costs. Personnel accompanied by dependents must be prepared to pay $ to $3, for temporary lodging and subsistence for the initial 10day period. Personnel are eligible for TLA to offset costs until private or government quarters are obtained. TLA is paid based on the number of days temporary lodging is required and will be reimbursed in 10 day increments. Personnel assigned to Okinawa will not normally be authorized more than 30 days of TLA. For a family consisting of one active duty member and three dependents the cost currently is $ per day for an on base facility and can go up to $ per day off base. Advance payment of TLA is authorized and encouraged for personnel who may require temporary lodging. Advances may be requested prior to and immediately after arrival on Okinawa. The TLA payment process normally takes between 57 business days and payments will be made directly to your direct deposit account. Personnel are required to pay the full amount of their final TLF bill upon check out. Therefore, requesting advance TLA is highly encouraged if adequate funds to pay the bill are not available. Contact your sponsor or command POC for details on requesting advance TLA. More information regarding TLA will be provided upon your arrival. Marine Corps on base TLFs are operated by the Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) and will accept commercial credit cards for payment. The use of a Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or TLF related expenses, including meals is not authorized. Eligible patrons are those who have a valid military issue identification card. The family lodging facilities give priority consideration to those individuals in a PCS status traveling with their families. The transient billeting facilities give priority to those individuals traveling in a Temporary Additional Duty (TAD/TDY) status. Other categories will be accommodated on an availability basis. Please bring a copy of your orders if applicable, your government issued ID card and a method of payment upon check in. Sponsors are encouraged to make TLF reservations for arriving personnel and 42

43 their family members. In the event on base lodging facilities are not available for the expected arrival date, sponsor may obtain a CNA no more than two weeks prior to the expected arrival date of the service member and their family. CONTACTS 1. Disbursing Office, MCB Camp Foster Phone: Com: or DSN: /7343 Web: 2. WestPac Lodge TLA Lodging Facility, Camp Foster Phone: Com: Fax: DSN: Web: 3. Camp Courtney TLA Lodging Facility Phone: Com: Fax: DSN: Web: 4. Camp Hansen TLA Lodging Facility Phone: Com: Fax: DSN: Web: According to the Bachelor Quarters Mandatory Assignment policy signed April 30, 2012, the Marine Corps will not pay OHA to an unaccompanied military service member drawing BAH for housing when bachelor housing/billeting is available. This is also true for senior enlisted and officer military service members in Japan on unaccompanied tours who are not subject to the general bachelor housing involuntary assignment policy. In addition, dual active duty service members both with unaccompanied orders will not rate base housing or be authorized and receive OHA unless one of them modifies the military orders to reflect accompanied status. 43

44 PER DIEM INFORMATION CHECK THE PER DIEM WEB PAGE FOR THE TOPICS LISTED BELOW. BAH OHA CONUS COLA OVERSEAS COLA PER DIEM RATES Basic Allowance for Housing Overseas Housing Allowance Continental US Cost of Living Allowances Overseas Cost of Living Allowances CONUS, OCONUS & OVERSEAS Per Diem Rates GOVERNMENT MEAL RATES MALT MILEAGE Allowance in Lieu of Transportation 1. PCS mileage is $0.235 a mile per vehicle. 2. Per Diem: (These are daily figures) a. $ for the member b. $92.25 for family members over 12 c. $61.50 for family members under 12 44

45 Dislocation Allowance Table *PRIMARY DLA RATES *(Effective 1 January 2012) Grad WithoutDependent WithDependent Rate O e Rate $3,534. $4,351. O9 10 $3,534. $4,351. O8 $3,534. $4,351. O7 $3,534. $4,351. O6 $3,242. $3,918. O5 $3,123. $3,776. O4 $2,894. $3,329. O3 $2,319. $2,754. O2 $1,840. $2,351. O1 $1,549. $2,102. O $2,504. $2,960. 3E O $2,129. $2,670. 2E O $1,831. $2,467. W5 1E $2,940. $3,213. W4 $2,611. $2,945. W3 $2,194. $2,699. W2 $1,949. $2,483. W1 $1,631. $2,147. E9 $2,144. $2,827. E8 $1,968. $2,606. E7 $1,681. $2,420. E6 $1,522. $2,236. E5 $1,404. $2,011. E4 $1,221. $2,011. E3 $1,198. $2,011. E2 $973.4 $2,011. E1 $867.9 $2,

46 COMMISSARY RUN THIS IS NOT REIMBURSABLE (RECOMMEDED ITEMS TO PURCHASE UPON ARRIVAL) Juice Milk Coffee Chips Cookies Water Cereal Bread Lunch Meat Please call the lodging facility that the newcomer will be using for specific times on putting food and snacks in the room. Placing Groceries in to Room Westpac Lodge: Courtney Lodge: Call ahead to see if room is clean Leave groceries at front desk for delivery Place groceries into room with escort Call ahead to see if room is clean Leave groceries at front desk for delivery Place groceries into room Hansen Lodge: Day of arrival beginning at 1500 Shogun Inn: Day of arrival beginning at 1400 *There are currently no special guidelines for placing groceries into offbase lodging facilities. If the newcomer is at an offbase lodging facility, please contact that facility directly for guidelines on placing groceries into the room. 46

47 DAY OF ARRIVAL MEETING THE SERVICE MEMBER AT THE AIRPORT (Naha Domestic Terminal or Kadena AMC Terminal) Be on time picking up the service member (and family members, if accompanied). All accompanied personnel, unaccompanied E6 and above and DOD Civilian personnel will be picked by their sponsor. Unaccompanied E1E5 Marines and Navy personnel (assigned to MCB or Marine units) will be picked up and transported by JRC. All unaccompanied Navy personnel (assigned to Navy units) will be picked up by their unit at the airport. The phone numbers to the commercial airlines located in Naha are listed below: Northwest Japan Airlines Air NipponDomestic Air Nippon International (toll free) (toll free) (toll free) (toll free) 47

48 CHECKIN PROCESS Escort the military member to his/her initial checkin or inprocessing locations. COMMAND / UNIT IPAC (USMC) PSD (NAVY) HOUSING OFFICE (WITHIN 2 DAYS) LOCAL MEDICAL FACILITY DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT OFFICE (DMO) RELOCATION OFFICE EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM USMC IMPORTANT CHECKIN INFORMATION IPAC INBOUND SECTION, CAMP FOSTER, BLDG 5692 Accompanied Marines can now walk in. To contact IPAC Inbound, call /7980. DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR USMC IPAC CHECK IN: *Orders (to include TAD en route) *All receipts (to include Temporary Lodging Entitlement (TLE) and/or Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) *Area clearance/port call *G1 Reporting endorsement *Passenger Travel Office (PTO) Authorization for Circuitous Travel, if applies *PTO Authorization for vehicle shipping, if applies *PTO Authorization for vehicle storage, if applies *PTO Authorization for Foreign Flag Carrier, if applies *Officer Qualification Record (OQR)/Service Record Book (SRB) *Tickets/Unused Government Transportation Requests 48

49 *Dependent Travel INFO *Previous Admin Unit INFO/PTO if applies *Excess Baggage Limited to 2 bags per traveler not to exceed 70 pounds per bag Turn in all itemized receipts with baggage weight, per bag. Claims that fall outside this will need approval by HQMC Manpower Management Integration and Administration *Copy of spouses travel claim (dual military couple) unaccompanied DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR CIRCUITOUS TRAVEL: *MMIA IS THE APPROVING AUTHORITY FOR CIRCUITIOUS TRAVEL *Orders specifying that member and dependents are authorized Circuitous Travel *Endorsement from PTO, with GTR from old PDS to new PDS *Paid airfare receipts for member and dependents from a U.S.certified carrier (See page ) DLA INFORMATION: *DLA is intended to partially reimburse relocation expenses not otherwise reimbursed *While overseas single Members that live in the barracks will not rate DLA unless authorized to live out in town. The following ranks will not be able to request DLA unless authorized to live out in town. 03 and below CWO3 and below E7 and below DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR TLA CLAIM: Accompanied service members will rate 30 days Marines may request Advanced TLA Documents *Unaccompanied will rate with nonavailability statement from Billeting *Copies of Travel Claim *Area clearance *Copies of lodging receipts *Copy of OnBase Housing assignment form once onbase house is assigned. *Copy of the agency letter (offbase housing) showing all efforts in locating an offbase house is *Copy of spouse s orders (dual military couple) HOUSING: *DD Form 594 is needed for IPAC INBOUND to start/stop Quarters. If DD Form 594 not provided, entitlements cannot be adjusted. *DD Form 2367 is needed for IPAC INBOUND to start OHA; prior approval is required by Kadena Housing Office. If DD Form 2367 not provided, entitlements cannot be adjusted. 49

50 TEMPORARY LODGING EXPENSE: For overseas tours, members rate up to 5 days TLE. TLE is only authorized for lodging incurred within 50 miles of previous duty station (PDS). NAVY PSD FOR USN ASSIGNED TO MARINE UNITS CHECK IN REQUIREMENTS: 1. Original Orders with report date stamped by unit 2. Overseas Screening (MANDATORY FOR ALL HANDS) 3. Field Service Record 4. Dependent Entry Approval (if required) 5. Receipts for lodging/travel expenses (no food receipts) 6. Unused tickets 7. Vehicle storage authorization 8. Emergency contact information (PNOK/SNOK phone numbers and addresses) 9. Sponsor phone number and unit address where member can be reached CHECKIN TIME/DATE/LOCATION: Greenside Sailors: /6322 9:00 am (Mon Bldg 3593 Blueside Sailors: 9476/6322 8:30 am (Tuesdays Bldg 3595 TLE REQUIREMENTS: Itemized receipt required, no more than 5 days will be paid. HOUSING ASSIGNMENT: DD Form 594 required to starts/stops/changes Basic Allowance for Quarters. OFF BASE QUARTERS: DD Form 2367 is required to start Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA). A copy of the lease must be attached and forwarded to PSD for payment. NAVY PSD FOR USN ASSIGNED TO NAVY UNITS DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR TLA CLAIM: 1 st claim Government Quarters termination documents, if assigned at previous duty station Copy of PCS orders (in service record) TLA worksheet Family/Dependent Entry Approval (in service record) Updated Dependency Application/Record of Emergency Data (OPNAV 1070/702) (in service record) Copy of travel claim (DD Form 13512) (in service record) Receipts 50

51 Certificate of NonAvailability (if you are in an offbase lodging or single) 2 nd and 3 rd claim TLA worksheet Receipts 4 th to 6 th claim TLA worksheet Receipts Justification for more than 30 days Reason(s) for not accepting Government housing or off base housing Proof that you are aggressively looking for off base housing 6 th or more claim TLA worksheet Receipts Approval letter from the CNFJ Final claim TLA worksheet Receipts Government Quarters assignment or off base housing lease TRICARE INFORMATION CENTER TRICARE SERVICE CENTER: HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY FRIDAY 07:30 16:00 NOTE: Update Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS) during checkin at IPAC/PSD prior to visiting/updating Tricare. The TRICARE Prime benefit is available overseas. The TRICARE Overseas Program (TOP) Prime serves active duty service members and eligible family members stationed overseas. Enrollment in TOP Prime for Active Duty (AD) and Active Duty Family Members (ADFMs) living overseas is not automatic. ADFMs must enroll in TOP Prime just as they would stateside. ADFMs who wish to enroll in TOP Prime must meet certain criteria: Be eligible in DEERS Be listed on their permanent change of station (PCS) orders or relocate on service sponsored/funded orders Be Command Sponsored/Family entry approved A military sponsor, spouse, or other adult family member must fill out an enrollment application and submit it to the nearest TRICARE Service Center. TOP enrollment begins on the date of acceptance of your enrollment package. ADFMs may enroll at any time. Enrollment continues until they choose to dis 51

52 enroll and/or choose to use TRICARE Standard, or are transferred to another TRICARE region or area. Those who choose enrollment in TRICARE Standard will still have access to care at military clinics, but on a space available basis and will primarily obtain care from authorized civilian providers. Personnel on TRICARE Standard will be responsible for copays and deductibles. Parties International Tokyo Shoten Bookstore Yoshihara Red Light District Club Shampoo Ground Tobacco Shop Takahara Hotel Shuffle Resort Feel Herb & Shisha Bernard s Garage Stoner s Den Samurai King Liza s Bar Hamby Bistro Bon Bon Dou Bar Sakura JAH Raggae Shop Okinawa Off Limits to All Sofa Personnel For the most uptodate information on off limits areas for SOFA status personnel please go to the following website: 52

53 REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION CHECKLIST FOR DODDS SCHOOL REGISTRATION DoDDS Okinawa District AIR FORCE PCS Orders with dependent names MARINES PCS Orders and Area Clearance with dependent names NAVY PCS Orders and Dependent entry approval listing dependents ARMY PCS Orders with dependent names CIVILIAN (DoD or NAFI) PCS Orders, Certificate of Employment Letter (Current Personnel Action Form for Local Hire Civilians) CIVILIAN CONTRACTORS Logistical Support Section of Contract, Company Authorization to Bill for Tuition KINDERGARTEN students must be five years old on/or before 1 September of the current calendar year to be eligible to register for the upcoming school year. PREKINDERGARTEN or SURE START students must be four years old by September 1 and FIRST GRADE students must be six years old on/or before September 1 of the current calendar year to be eligible to register for the upcoming school year. SCHOOL GRADES PHONE # Bob Hope Primary (KADENA AB) K Bechtel Elementary (CAMP MCTUREOUS) Killin Elementary (CAMP FOSTER) Zukeran Elementary (CAMP FOSTER) Stearley Heights Elementary (KADENA AB) Kinser Elementary (CAMP KINSER) Kadena Elementary (KADENA AB) Amelia Earhart Intermediate (KADENA AB) Kadena Middle (KADENA AB) Lester Middle (CAMP LESTER) K K K K K K Kadena High (KADENA AB) Ryuku Middle School Kubasaki High (CAMP FOSTER) District Superintendent Office (KADENA AB)