A new USFK policy requires all new spouses to attend a spouse orientation. Spouses will not be able to receive a permanent ration card until they attend the orientation.

http://www-hr.koprea.army.mil/Progra...on_Program.pdf

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Honestly, I don't think this is a bad idea at all, as a spouse, I think it's great to learn about the area you're in, and an orientation clears up all the questions that you might not have the opportunity to ask if you hadn't. There are already orientations going on quarterly in at least Osan's area, but that will leave a spouse sitting for 30-90 days sometimes, depending on the time of her arrival.

My only qualm about this is the logistical problems that could come..this is going to require almost daily briefings be available, especially given the tie to the rations card that most people need to get right away...and I can see this becoming difficult when you have to arrange base-sponsored childcare,etc.

And here's a question.. the reg refers to all "accompanied" personnel.. does this mean NCS spouses too? If not, how is this going to effect *our* capabilities to get ration cards...?

Great for the spouses... a pain for the military :)

Dee :)

PG 4 para 4 (b) says spouses will attend. Their are no "what if's there".

It also states that they will not beable to get the permenant ration card, which means they will still get a temp. ration card until they recieve the training.

I think it's a good idea.....

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CH-47 SI

They must find it difficult...

Those who have taken authority as the truth, rather than truth as the authority. --Gerald Massey

I agree , its an awesome idea .If it had been in place when we arrived I wouldnt of grumbled so much about going to the brief.
Also Dee as far as childcare goes ,if spouses are required to attend there will be provisions made for childcare , Area II ACS always reserves slots at the CDC for the newcomers brief .Of course the kinder have to be enrolled .

It sounds a little harsh at first- "Requiring" spouses to do anything is a poor choice of words, but the Army isn't known for it's great communication ability.
It is clear that if you do not want a hassle getting a ration card, you should attend. They will not be able to do it for everyone within 72 or 96 hours, either. What they really mean is that it is to your advantage to get a proper briefing- and you should agree with that!
The briefings were set once a month at Yongsan, and were very informative. The entire thing took three days, not all of which were mandatory. There was a problem with Commanders having conflicting briefings, etc.. Requiring Member and Spouse is a great idea. It is a great opportunity to get the RIGHT answers from someone who is paid to KNOW the right answer. By all means-GO! And ask questions!

Just how will one know the wheres and whens of these briefings? My husband's company is less forthcoming with information about noncommand sponsorship. I suppose that might change but as of now if he mentions me coming all they say is "oh."

I want to make sure that I have everything done that needs to be done especially when it's involving a ration card. Anyways, so does anyone know how I will know where and when the briefings are when I get there in a few weeks?

Michelle

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Michelle

Didn't we talk before about your coming to Seoul? Are you straight on housing? (OK- I see you are going to the Hump.) Don't worry about it, as now that orientation is "Required" it will all fall into place. Really. No one is going to threaten you by witholding a ration card. The Army, as I said, often has a difficult time saying things in a civil manner. They love to give orders and ultimatums. What they really mean is it is in the best interest of the Army and the spouse to get the briefing. They find it necessary to be strict about attendance, because once the unit gets a soldier, they load them up with all kinds of unit mandatory things to do ASAP. The unit has deadlines to meet, also. So NOW the gaining Unit's needs have to wait until the Area gives you the briefing. It is actually a good thing. My wife enjoyed the two day briefing we had here in Yongsan. It was interesting, even though we are not strangers to Korea, and-the sandwiches were free! Those of you coming NCS should expect a certain amount of hardship, especially if you bring children. That said, it will work out.

Thanks Mr. Joe! Yep, we thought we were going to Yongsan and found out otherwise. Hubby has been at Humphreys for almost a month now. The kiddos and I will be leaving in 3-4 weeks and we can't wait to get there! I just resigned myself to the fact that if I leave a step out someone in some office will be sure to let me know...lol. I've def learned that from previous experience w/the army. They'll keep sending me to different people until it's all hashed out!

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Have a Blessed Day!

Michelle

The ones at Humphreys are held the 3rd Tuesday of every month at the CAC. They do have some volunteers taking care of the children. If you look down a few posts in the Spouses forum, I posted the itinerary for the orientation they have here.

I attended the one at Osan AB, but I was the only NCS spouse to do so. I told them they needed to get the word out because the NCS spouses need the briefing much more than CS spouses do. I'm glad they are "requiring" it. How it's put doesn't matter as much as getting it done, in my opinion. Childcare is provided (it only takes one day here at Osan) and so are breakfast and lunch. Some of the speakers were a bit dull, but I learned a lot and it was a lovely break from the kids. As for the ration card bit--the temp ones are good for 30 days, and I believe the orientations are going to be upped to once a month, so there shouldn't be a problem. Also, as far as information flow being next to non-existent in some squadrons, this kind of info would actually be passed down during in-processing, if families come together. For those whose active duty spouses came over first, all they need to do is go to the Family Support Center aka Airman and Family Readiness Center. They've got all the info you need.