Making the PCS a success

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- Ah, the permanent change of station season, that time of year when good friends leave and new ones show up. When it seems like the enlisted personnel reports and decorations never end and going away luncheons are a daily event. Turnover is in full swing and it's important to remember a few things to help manage the turmoil.

First, the PCS season is a very demanding time for everyone involved. The departing member is focused on numerous and tedious tasks. Out-processing, finishing work projects, handing off responsibilities and getting the family ready to leave are just a few of the many things that have to be completed. Co-workers are focused on turning over the outgoing member's duties to someone else in the section or to the incoming member. During this chaotic time it's easy to get distracted with so many activities happening, but it's imperative we keep an eye on each other while maintaining the mission.

Second, we need to ensure that the outgoing member has enough time to out-process and take care of his or her family. We can't just pay attention to the activities at work, we must be aware of the turmoil that has been created at home. The closets are being emptied, boxes are everywhere, and the kids are running around; its altogether chaos and pandemonium at home.

As an Air Force family, we also need to keep in mind that the member's family is going through tremendous change. The children are saying 'Goodbye' to their best friends. Spouses are trying to clean, pack, and prepare for hours in the car, a new house and new neighbors. If the member and their family have been at their current location for several years, then the change will be even harder to handle.

Something as simple as bringing a dinner by for the family PCSing, finishing that last work project so the member can go home or volunteering to take the kids to the park will make the transition a little easier. As Airmen, if we all balance the mission while taking care of each other, this PCS season will be a success.