How can I go about securing orders and preparing for a short notice PCS to overseas?

SPC Brionna V. — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 19:45:49 -0400

So, as it says on the tin. My contract had me originally assigned to Ft Campbell following AIT for 68W, however I looked into my sponsorship and my welcome letter surprised me with USAG Italy! How do I go about securing my orders and preparing myself and my husband for this move with such short notice? How much leave will I have before my report date? I’m super blindsided, any input is appreciated!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2019 10:10 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 22:10:50 -0400

Your AIT leadership should make sure you’re taken care of. You should receive a Levy Brief. There are other things like Command Sponsorship (EFMP ~ Exceptional Family Member Screening). Military Passport for Spouse. When do you graduate?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2019 10:15 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 22:15:54 -0400

If your AIT is the same as Gordon you should get your orders close to graduation from your company. The major thing for you would be to get to transportation and have your household goods shipped to Italy.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 20 at 2019 11:27 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 23:27:36 -0400

Pretty much same thing happened to me when I was enlisted. Didn’t even know then we had Army base in Italy. I did all the briefings, went overseas first then pregnant wife and son cane few months later. They went to nearest military base for things and I went through the offices at Vicenza on my end to get them over there. During those years those with less than 2 years in and not E-4 could not have family travel with soldier at same time.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made Sep 21 at 2019 10:06 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 10:06:09 -0400

If I understand correctly you do not have orders and have not attended a Levy Briefing. Don't panic before you are attacked is my thought keep your mind on AIT when they process your orders and send you to a Levy Briefing then you will have the correct information and reaction time. My last OCONUS was a cluster do to me getting in a hurry it effected every thing including housing. My Suggestion is be Patient. Check with you current Chain of Command and see if they can offer any help with some of your questions after all They are you support group. Hope this helps.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Sep 21 at 2019 10:21 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 10:21:25 -0400

I like SFC Robert Walton advice! While you’re waiting for the Army to get it’s stuff together, do some proactive planning with your spouse. Have spouse get a passport. Check DOS web page for information about Italy. Research towns and tourists attractions near your new duty station. Ask spouse to start going through personal stuff. You need three piles: household goods, hold baggage, and Goodwill. Household goods may take more than a month to get to you. Hold baggage will arrive in a few weeks. Consider your vehicles. Don’t ship a beater overseas. Parts and labor are expensive for old cars. Italy is a great place to live for a few years. Good luck!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2019 1:53 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Sep 2019 01:53:23 -0400

You tell them to put you back on orders to Campbell and turn away from Italy, quickly lol.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 26 at 2019 3:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Sep 2019 15:44:44 -0400

Vicenza! You'll love it