2d Cavalry Regiment Welcome Packet: Key Information for Your PCS to Germany

This guide provides essential information for a successful Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to USAG Bavaria with the 2d Cavalry Regiment (Dragoons). Key contacts and links are included for your convenience.

Welcome Packet

Bavaria Guide

I. Before You Arrive

This section outlines the critical steps to complete before your departure for Germany.

• Sponsorship:

  • Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP): Sponsorship is required. You must use the Army Career Tracker (ACT) to initiate the DA Form 5434 and request a sponsor once you receive assignment notifications.

  • Command Sponsorship: This is essential for families to accompany a soldier and receive full benefits like travel allowances, housing, and access to on-post schools and healthcare. The process involves a mandatory Family Member Travel Screening (FMTS) through the Exceptional Family Member Program (E-EFMP). This can take 3 weeks to 3 months, so start immediately.

• Essential Documents & Planning:

  • Passports: Command-sponsored dependents need a No-Fee Passport with a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) stamp, which must be obtained prior to departure. A separate tourist passport is required for leisure travel outside of Germany.

  • Housing: USAG Bavaria has a mandatory assignment policy for government-controlled quarters. Under the current "Plane-to-Pillow" policy, your sponsor will add you to the housing waitlist up to 30 days before you travel. You will receive housing offers 7-10 days before arrival.

  • Childcare (CYS): If you require childcare, register and apply online at MilitaryChildcare.com as soon as you know you are coming to 2CR.

  • Schools: Pre-register school-aged children prior to arrival at DoDEA's Online Registration for Students (DORS).

• Shipping & Travel:

  • Household Goods (HHG) & Vehicles: Schedule your shipments through the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). You can track your POV shipment via PCS My POV.

  • Pets & Service Animals: Pet space on the Patriot Express is extremely limited and first-come, first-served. Contact your transportation office immediately to reserve a spot. Be aware of Germany's strict rules on Class I (prohibited) and Class II (restricted) canine breeds. For detailed guidance, visit the AMC Pet Travel Page.

II. Your Arrival in Germany

This section details the first steps to take once you land.

• Travel and Reception:

  • Patriot Express: Most personnel will fly via the Patriot Express from Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) to Ramstein Air Base. From Ramstein, you will take a 5-hour sponsorship bus (S-Bus) to the Tower Barracks Reception Center (Bldg 244), where your sponsor will meet you.

  • Sign-In & Housing: After a quick briefing at the reception center, you will be taken directly to your new home or barracks room.

• In-Processing & Getting Settled:

  • Vehicle Registration: You must obtain a USAREUR driver's license by completing online training on Joint Knowledge Online (JKO) (Courses USA-007 and USA-007B). After your POV arrives, you will get it inspected and permanently registered. Appointments can be made at the USAG Bavaria Vehicle Registration site.

  • Temporary Home Goods: Army Community Service (ACS) offers a lending closet with kitchenware and other essentials for up to 60 days. It is crucial to bring your own bedding in your checked luggage, as it is not provided.

III. Life in Germany

This section offers tips and resources for your tour in Grafenwoehr/Vilseck.

• Daily Life:

  • Finances: You will need a German bank account for local bills. Use the Tax-Relief Program for VAT forms to save 7-19% on purchases.

  • Communications: Your APO mailing address will be assigned upon arrival. Do not include "Germany" in the address. Set up an international plan for your cell phone before you depart the U.S. to ensure you have service upon landing.

• Connecting with the Community:

  • Spouse Resources: Find federal jobs on USAJOBS and local civilian jobs on the EUR CIV Jobs Portal. The Education Center provides information on college programs.

  • Readiness Groups (SFRG): Each unit has an SFRG to connect families and provide a support network. Contact the Regimental FRSA to get connected.

  • BOSS Program: The Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) program offers community service and recreational activities for single soldiers.

Key Points of Contact (POCs)

Here is a list of essential contacts for your PCS to the 2d Cavalry Regiment.