PCS season: So, it’s almost time to leave Ramstein

by Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Ramstein is preparing once again for PCS season. The PCS process might appear daunting, however, the 786th Force Support Squadron has the capabilities to ensure a smooth departure or arrival.

“PCSing into Ramstein has never been easier,” said Dana Doan, 86th Force Support Squadron community readiness consultant. “However, no PCS comes without bumps in the road.”

Ensuring a smooth transition is a priority for the technicians who handle arriving and departing Airmen. By making resources available online, the 786th FSS aims to ease the process of moving.

“All personnel services delivery guides for PCSing and assignment processing are available online,” said Senior Airman Anthony Acevedo, 786th FSS base relocation technician. “Occasionally, people are unaware of the requirements to successfully PCS. We try to alleviate some of these issues by making the PSDs available on the Ramstein Web page.”

Ramstein always comes equipped with an Air Force-named best practice.

“We introduced the Ramstein Out Process line to stop those who were PCSing from visiting each agency when possible,” said Master Sgt. Ryan Norton, 786th FSS superintendent of career development. “Before ROP, getting everything done in a timely manner was difficult. We are now bringing the agencies to the people, instead of having members running around base.”

There are programs in place to help the process run smoothly, and the 786th FSS wants to remind those who are PCSing that patience is paramount, Acevedo said.

“Parts of this process take longer than normal because of where we are located,” Norton said. “Situational awareness and patience make the process easier for all involved.”

Many of the first steps can be taken by the person PCSing.

“Being proactive is major,” Acevedo said. “When someone PCSs, checking for critical records and necessary suspenses save headaches.”

The 786th and the 86th FSS both want PCSs to be as stress free as possible. Military family life consultants and chaplains are available to counsel and listen to frustrations that may develop, Doan said.

To contact the 786th FSS for outbound assignments, email 786fss.dpmar@us.af.mil or call 480-9898 or 06371-47-9898. Appointment hours are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Walk-in hours are from 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 1 to 3 p.m. Fridays.

Tags: