After the Move

The moving van has left, and you need a break from the boxes they’ve left you. It’s time to get out of the house and start exploring! To help you get established, consider the strategies below.

• If you haven't already visited your Fleet and Family Support Center, give them a call and register for their Welcome Aboard. Designed to assist Sailors and their families with assimilation into their new community, this course highlights familiarization with the area, community and base resources, and local amenities and attractions. Some even include free tours.
• Learn what’s available in the area and what recreational facilities are on the installation by contacting the local Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) office. If you have children, ask about the base’s Child Development Center, Youth Center and Teen programs.
• Settle in gradually to save on costs. Your first grocery store run is going to be more expensive, but you do not need to immediately restock everything. Only buy what you need and borrow what your installation can provide.
• Contact your Navy Family Ombudsman / Deployment Support Program. The Command Ombudsman serves as a liaison between family members and the commanding officer. The Ombudsman will want to know you have arrived, and you’ll want to get plugged into the communication link to the command.
• You’ll need to update your address for Tricare. It's easy to check health care off the list with Moving Made Easy.
• You’ll also need to update your information in Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS).
• Is your spouse looking for a job? Check out the Family Employment Readiness Program at your FFSC.
• Remember that your sponsor continues to be a resource for you and your family until you “… have become an integral part of [your] new command…” (OPNAVINST 1740.3E). Whether it takes you six days or six months to feel like you are integrated, your sponsor should be there for you. Continue to use them accordingly.