MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- A workshop given by the Marine Corps Community Services Relocation Assistance Office here is providing valuable information to service members and their families who will soon make a Permanent Change of Station.
The "PCS with Success" workshop helps service members and their families by letting them know what to expect at their next duty station.
"One of the most difficult times in military life is moving to a new duty station," said Eugene Clark, MCCS relocation specialist. "Here at the Relocation Assistance Office we help people plan their PCS move by giving them the necessary information about their next duty station, so that the move is easier and less stressful on them."
The workshop is held every other month, except during the summer, when it is held every month.
"The workshop is beneficial to all service members, regardless of their rank or time in service, because no matter how long you've been in, it's always good to be prepared," said Clark.
"The class was really helpful and provided me with the information I needed to help make my move to Cherry Point, easier," said Gunnery Sgt. Tracy Ikard, a 20-year veteran and recent Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni "PCS with Success" course graduate who is moving on to MCAS Cherry Point, N.C.
The class is mandatory for service members PCSing within 90 days, and Clark says it can aid service members in having a smooth move.
The Relocation Assistance Office's goal is to help all service members in transition, whether they are coming or going, noted Clark.
"At the Relocation Assistance Office we have other resources available, such as the welcome aboard packets and video tapes of all the Marine Corps bases and some of the Navy installations that individuals can check out," he said.
According to Clark, guest speakers also provide valuable information about other duty stations, including phone numbers, information about housing, and even local maps.
"When people attend the workshop it gives them more confidence about their next duty station," Clark said. "It's like a `heads up' class. People need to be prepared before they reach their next duty station. That's what the class is here for."
The next workshop is scheduled to be held Sept. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m. in Building 411, Room 217. For more information call 253-3311.