MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND S.C. -- The Tri-Command's Smooth Move program, which are classes designed to condense all vital and pertinent information associated with a military move into three and half hours, are now mandatory for all military personnel undergoing Permanent Change of Station orders or reaching their End of Active Service.
The change mirrors the Relocation Assistance Program's growing concern that Tri-Command personnel do not realize the numerous free benefits available to them and their families.
"We have not been getting a good turnout," said Evelyn Cookley, Relocation Assistance manager for the Depot. "This information is so vital that it needed to be mandatory. Those who have attended the program in the past have saved a lot of money and experienced a stress-free transition, but too many Marines did not want to come."
Now, in accordance with Depot Order 1754.7, all military members and their families will attend the Smooth Move program, which incorporates numerous transitional aspects including: spouse employment opportunities, stress counseling information, the Exceptional Family Member Program, shipment and storage of household goods, legal assistance, child care, the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, budgeting analysts, TRICARE and many others.
"We need to get the word out because there is a lot of money to be saved," said Toni Stancil, MCAS Beaufort Relocation Assistance manager.
Depot personnel's next money-saving opportunity will be March 2 from 8 - 11:30 a.m. at building 115, which is located next to the Lyceum and across from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service pier.
Cookley knows that the turn out will certainly increase dramatically because of the Depot Order, and she believes it is for the best and that all who attend "will learn something."
"Our goal is to provide military personnel and their families with a stress-free, money-saving transition because they attended the class and learned something," said Cookley. "The Marines need to be mission ready at all times, and the Smooth Move Program helps them stay ready."
Another program designed to ease the financial burden and stress of all Depot Marines is the Loan Locker Program, which according to Cookley, very few Marines take advantage of.
The program is designed to provide the basic essentials for service members waiting Transportation Management Office delivery of their household goods for up to 30 days. Kitchen and appliance packs, vinyl mattresses, infant items, televisions, dishes, car seats and furniture are all available.
Cookley stressed that the Loan Locker Program, while designed to help those awaiting TMO, is open to everyone.
"It is not just for the newcomers," said Cookley. "It is open to everyone including retirees. They can come by anytime and sign out something they need."
For more information on any of the Relocation Assistance Program benefits, contact Cookley at 228-2371.