730 AMS open house provides traveling answers

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David C. Danford
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Whether it's time for a vacation or an upcoming PCS, there are preparations that must be made in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

The 730th Air Mobility Squadron held an open house at the passenger terminal to help facilitate these traveling processes. Base residents had their questions answered by 730 AMS representatives, customs and immigrations experts and the base veterinary clinic employees.

Airman 1st Class Tanner Salmonson, 730 AMS passenger service agent, briefed more than 75 Airmen, dependents and Department of Defense civilians on the different categories assigned to space available flights and how they are prioritized. He also detailed the documentation required for each of those categories and who was eligible for each program.

"It helps to know what you can and can't do before you use some of these programs," Salmonson said. "If you sign up for space A, making sure all of your documents are in order is the best way you can save time and avoid hassle."

Service members who are about to PCS have the option to have their cats or dogs sent with them to their new base; however, there are rules and procedures that can delay the process if not followed correctly. Certain medical documentation is required for pets to travel, especially overseas.

"I recommend that you check in with your military vet clinic months in advance to your PCS," said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Juventino Reyes, Public Health Command District Japan NCO in charge of animal care. "It can mean the difference between 10 days in quarantine or 180 days."

The animal care information was just one example of the wealth of information provided to attendees at the open house. All representatives stressed the importance of pre-planning and their availability to answer further questions.

"Everyone was pleased with the turnout for this open house," said Maj. Gabriel Uribe, 730 AMS director of operations. "We would like to make this a monthly event so that even newcomers can get the information they need."

The open house is just one avenue to take when learning about traveling and PCS tips. Information can also be found under the newcomers tab at www.Yokota.af.mil.

For more information regarding future open houses, call the 730 AMS at 225-5661.