Thursday, June 25, 2009

New requirements for Soldiers heading to Korea

Soldiers on orders for Korea need to know about the new Army Instructions on tour lengths and options for bringing family members. Soldiers must hand-carry the following documents:

USFK 350-2 Theater-specific required training certificate; PCS orders; leave form; medical and dental records (unless the servicing MTF sends them via certified mail);  military personnel file with record of emergency data, SGLV Form 8268-E and security clearance; promotion packet for those in promotable status; approved MOS/medical/dental retention board proceedings or medical evaluation board proceedings.

Before arriving in Korea, Soldiers must also complete mandatory USFK training requirements and present a valid training certificate during in-processing.

In addition, incoming Soldiers must log on to the Soldier Management System and complete the Newcomer Needs Assessment Checklist at least 90 days before their report date.
Why completing the checklist is         important:

Completing the Newcomer Needs Assessment Checklist is a particularly important task for Soldiers headed to Korea, according to IMCOM Executive Director John B. Nerger, because it “provides critical information concerning inbound, school-age children and additional resources required for them.“

“Fewer than 1 percent of inbound Soldiers to Korea have the current special instructions on their orders, he said. “Within 30 to 60 days, decisions must be made about schools, child-care centers and other support activities prior to the beginning of the new school year.“

More information is available from “Assignment Instructions to Korea” on Army Knowledge Online.