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When new Soldiers arrive in the KMC, they used to have to shuttle between several posts to accomplish all of the tasks listed on their in-processing checklist.
This summer, U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern consolidated a majority of its in-processing services into Kleber Kaserne’s Bldg. 3245, making it a virtual one-stop shop for those transitioning in and out of the community, said Marcia Sierra-Williams, the garrison’s Military Personnel Division chief.
In the past, the In-processing Training Center, or ITC, was located on Daenner Kaserne, said Robert Green Jr., the Central Processing Facility supervisor.
“I think the Soldiers, in general, are happy with the changes,” Sierra-Williams said. “If (Green) puts them on break and they have to run to finance, they just run downstairs. If they need to do (Central Issue Facility), they just go over there. It is just an easy win-win for everybody.”
In addition, Sierra-Williams said they will continue to consolidate and increase the number of agencies at the building.
They have joined with Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation on several initiatives, including a discount voucher for the newly opened Kleber Java Cafe. If a Soldier or family member has to wait longer than 20 minutes in the passport or ID card office, they can take their time stamped ticket to the cafe, located in the KMC Onstage theater, and get a 20 percent discount off their order, said Steven Pelletier, FMWR director.
Coming in December, they will also be opening an hourly child care room in the building, said CYS Services coordinator Ellen Harris.
The new room will be available for on-site care for those who are using the in-processing services, Harris said. The room became a reality after it was brought up during an Army Family Action Plan conference, which gives Soldiers and family members the opportunity to voice concerns and bring issues to garrison leadership.
“They will be able to drop off their child and then go upstairs and go to their appointments,” Harris said. “This will help those who are just coming into the community and haven’t had time to arrange child care. This will be one less thing for them to worry about.”
While Spc. Ben Fletcher said having a good sponsor is the biggest key to having a successful in-processing experience, the new 212th Combat Support Hospital Soldier said it is convenient having all the services within one building.
“At other posts, like Fort Lewis, the in-processing is spread out in multiple areas,” he said. “This is better and more effective because you only have to go to one place. That saves a lot of time.”
Spc. Todd Dages, new to the 230th Military Police Company, echoed that sentiment.
“Having a good sponsor that knows where to take you and knows what needs to be done has been beneficial,” said Dages, who came from Fort Hood, Texas.
Dages said it was convenient having everything in one building. He was also able to use the family room during the process.
“I took advantage of the family room,” he said. “With three boys, ages 6, 4 and 2, it was a help.”
