ADAPT AND OVERCOME – “THE NEW NORMAL”

Change is inevitable – at home, at work, and in the world. In the Marine Corps, our ability to adapt to a

changing world and the operational environment around us is directly tied to our willingness to enable

those changes to reach success.

In a speech on June 25, 1963, President John F. Kennedy said, “Change

is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are

certain to miss the future.” So much has changed since then, and this is

certainly true for the Marine Corps, as well as the Department of

Defense (DoD). What is remarkable and different is the furious pace

that changes are occurring around us. Seemingly, our greatest

challenge within our technology, tools, policies, and organizations is

our ability to adapt those rapid offerings quickly enough to harness the

greatest benefits for the Marine Corps and the Installations and

Logistics Community. Employing those new items effectively is a significant task, and our senior leaders

are well aware of its impact.

In today's environment, it takes a lot of hard work, continuous effort, and individuals who are willing to

drive those innovative ideas further than those around them think is even possible. This is our "new

normal”, as it is often described. Our “new normal” is a new base line, a new foundation and starting

point from which we continue the hard work that helped us achieve the goals of past.

An adjustment in perspective is key here. Going forward, there should be an understanding that the "new

normal" is essentially “normal”, and represents our foundation and the natural starting platform needed

for continuous advancement of the DoD and Marine Corps. Our missions cover the full range of support

for installations, operating forces, Joint Expeditionary Units, policy guidance, development, and

governance. From the strategic plan level of Services down to the tactical operations of transportation

and distribution, we adapt to the next set of changes, recognize that it is critical for us to move forward

with embracing the future, and most importantly, supporting each other and our customers.

My advice is to think actively and deliberately about change as your personal “new normal”. Take pause

to understand how you react, get perspective, and understand ‘The Why’ so you can learn, adapt, grow,

lead, and support the mission. We need to get comfortable with that which makes us uncomfortable.

Mr. James Meersman, LPD Branch Head, (703) 256-8129, james.meersman@usmc.mil

Volume 9, Number 2 7 June 2018

P a g e 2 | 12

FAMILY PET TRANSPORTATION DURING OVERSEAS PERMANENT CHANGE OF

STATION (PCS)

Across the Marine Corps, there is a lot of discussion lately regarding transportation for the family pet

when executing PCS overseas. So much so that now the conversations are being articulated at the

Department of Defense (DoD) and Joint levels, and perhaps very soon, within Congressional dialog

venues. This is a good thing. Not just for the cohesiveness of the Military Family Unit going forward,

but also for the individual Marine that is being supported during the transition with their family.

Everyone fully understands that "pets are not an entitlement", and none of us need a new lesson nor

lecture on the archive historical aspects that developed governance executed within the Joint Travel

Regulations (JTR) for those entitlements today. Taking care of our Military Families on these matters is a

priority directly from the Commandant of the Marine Corps (CMC) and from the Deputy Commandant

for Installations and Logistics. Our senior leaders have

been at the very forefront on this issue since the very

beginning, and they have provided bold leadership with

specific directional guidance and tasks to Headquarters

Marine Corps staff agencies towards aggressively

changing the way in which we all think about this specific

problem set for the way ahead. Additionally, there are

direct and appropriate communications at the most senior

levels with United States Transportation Command,

United/Commercial Airlines, and other organizations that

have a piece of these support areas and functions globally.

We believe that the family pet is an important part of the

Military Family Unit, and thus is additive to our Personnel

Readiness for the Marine Corps in supporting that individual Marine.

Governing statutory regulations are executed via the JTR, and are derived from Congressional legislation

of laws and policies. We seek to adjust the policy environment that enables Service Chiefs (CMC and

authorized Staff) to make decisional actions for their members and families when transiting with their

pets for PCS. Currently pets (dog or cat) are excluded from statutes providing for the transportation of

the Military Family Unit, and are not included as a supported component of “baggage, household goods,

or personal effects”, nor are pets considered part of the Family for those transportation services. We

assert that pets, for military families that are being sent OCONUS, should be considered as integral

parts/members of that Military Family Unit, and should move with alignment and coupling as part of the

Military Family Unit; specifically, in the “same method, mode, time, and manner as does the family”. We

believe that the Service Chiefs should be afforded the authority to make determinations on keeping the

Military Family Unit together when executing transportation for directed accompanied relocation (PCS)

that is deemed both in the best interest of that family and in support of optimal Personnel Readiness for

the Commander, and thus, the Operational Readiness impact for the Marine Corps. Through the Office of

the Secretary of Defense legislative proposal functions, we will request an adjustment to the JTR that is

supportive and enables the Service Chiefs to make this authorized determination for their members with

regard to conditions for that specific Military Family Unit, and would need to be approved at the

Congressional level. The legislative proposal timeline is 18-24 months, as outlined by DoD Office of

Legislative Counsel. This is the policy direction that has been decided, and that we are working towards

for the future. The LPD-2 Passenger Transportation team is our lead in these efforts for the Commandant,

and is supported by all of you across the field. Future updates and announcements will be disseminated

as appropriate. Thanks for your time and help.

Lieutenant Colonel Shawn Harris, PhD(st), LPD Deputy Branch Head and 31XX OccField

Manager, (703) 695-6099, shawn.a.harris@usmc.mil

P a g e 3 | 12

LPD-1:

UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND (USTRANSCOM) SPONSORED

JOINT DEPLOYMENT AND DISTRIBUTION EXECUTIVE BOARD (JDDEB): On 3 May 2018, the Logistics Distribution Policy (LPD) Branch attended the secure

video teleconference for the annual JDDEB, which is chaired by General Darren

McDew (Commander, USTRANSCOM). Attendees included General Officer,

Senior Executive Service, and Flag Officer level representatives from the Geographic

Combatant Commands, the Services, Joint Staff, Air Mobility Command, Surface

Deployment and Distribution Command, Defense Logistics Agency, Defense

Commissary Agency, General Services Administration, Federal Emergency

Management Agency and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, among others.

The JDDEB is the capstone governance forum for the Department of Defense distribution process and is

the senior decision-making body for the Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise community of

interest.

During the JDDEB, General McDew discussed the new role of USTRANSCOM as the “Joint

Deployment and Distribution Coordinator (JDDC)” vice their former role as the “Distribution Process

Owner”. The recent update to the Unified Command Plan (UCP) mandated this new role.

The UCP is a classified document that establishes the Combatant Commands, identifies geographic areas

of responsibility, assigns primary tasks, defines authority of the Commanders, establishes Command

relationships, and gives guidance on the exercise of Combatant Commands. General McDew’s opening

address included the following comments:

- The goal of the JDDEB is to create dialogue and discussion, not to solve problems.

- In USTRANSCOM's role as the JDDC, they exercise coordinating authority for JDDE

operations, planning and collaborate with other Combatant Commands, the Services, commercial

industry, and interagency partners to align and harmonize global logistics functions.

- USTRANSCOM specifically sets the globe for logistics, continually shaping the nation's ability

to act within the trans-regional, multi-domain, and multi-functional threat environment.

- The sprint to big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will result in long-term gains. General

McDew personally invited the Services to participate, partner and contribute on the big data

initiative.

Information only briefs provided during the meeting included:

- Transportation Management System (TMS): Update on the commercial off-the-shelf solution for

globally integrated transportation management that synchronizes interoperable data and

maximizes responsiveness, agility, and resilience. USTRANSCOM will host an upcoming Joint

Integrated Process Team to continue work towards the potential TMS implementation.

- Big Data: USTRANSCOM seeks to leverage the data environment and industry expertise to

implement machine learning and AI. Currently, they are executing a Proof of Principle with four

(4) separate vignettes – Global Tanker Management, Cargo Movement, Sealift Capacity, and

Patient Movement – to understand how technology can be applied to meet the mission.

- Defense Personal Property Program (DP3): Update on the status of DP3 and USTRANSCOM’s

efforts to improve the customer service process for military families. Upgrades include increased

carrier capacity (in most needed areas), enhancements to move.mil entitlement tools, and an

emphasis on face-to-face interaction. Overall, customer satisfaction is improving (up to 91%,

with a goal of 95%). General McDew commended the Marine Corps for their recent efforts in

this area.

USTRANSCOM is currently preparing for the Distribution Steering Group meeting, scheduled July 2018.

For additional information, please contact the below POC.

- POC: Mr. James Jones, LPD-1 Section Deputy, (571) 256-2752, james.a.jones7@usmc.mil

P a g e 4 | 12

CARGO MOVEMENT OPERATIONS SYSTEM (CMOS) USER TRAINING COURSE

UPDATE: Headquarters Marine Corps would like to congratulate all the attendees who completed the first LPD-

funded, Cargo Movement Operations System (CMOS) training course at the CMOS Program

Management Office in March 2018. The course was a great success!

Major topics included CMOS system navigation, creating accounts, building Department of Defense

Activity Address Codes, printer setup, Radio Frequency-In-transit Visibility registration, Web DD1149

Tracker Lite System overview, ‘RESPSHIP’ process, Hazardous Materials process, writing Radio

Frequency Identification tags, frustrating Transportation Control Numbers, creating ‘SQL-Plus’ reports,

and CMOS Inbound process. Participants left with improved knowledge of how Marines use the CMOS

freight process, plus a shiny training certificate.

A new set of distribution management professionals (MOS 31XX Officers, Enlisted, and Civilian

Personnel) recently completed the second LPD-funded, CMOS training course 7-11 May 2018.

- POC: Ms. Meloney Wallace, LPD-1, (703) 695-8072, meloney.wallace.ctr@usmc.mil

IMPORTANCE OF IN-TRANSIT VISIBILITY (ITV) IN DISTRIBUTED OPERATIONS: United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) recently developed a White Paper entitled,

“In Transit Visibility (ITV) Modernization”. The White Paper, written by Mr. Mike Crawford (TCJ4-

LT), explains the importance of ITV in distributed operations and how it, “. . . increases confidence in the

logistics system and negates reorders, thereby enabling effective and efficient end-to-end inventory and

transportation management”. The purpose of the paper is to generate meaningful discussion and invite

feedback about how the Department of Defense (DoD) should ensure ITV is not only maintained, but also

improved, in the future. In addition to improving ITV, USTRANSCOM aims to streamline and align ITV

regulations and processes throughout the Services.

Mr. Crawford explains that active Radio Frequency Identification (aRFID)

has significant physical limitations. In addition, the regulations governing

its use at the Service and the DoD levels conflict with one another, in

some cases, and in others they are vague. Many think Global Positioning

System (GPS) data should replace aRFID, but Mr. Crawford feels that,

“IGC [Integrated Data Environment/Global Transportation Network

Convergence] is capable of receiving satellite GPS data from commercial

sources, but current data interfaces and database business rules, either prevents or degrades user readable

presentation”.

IGC incorporates business systems with manifest data, Electronic Data Integration transactions and

government provided GPS data to help improve ITV. Although interfaces and some of the business rules

create GPS data obstacles within IGC, the White Paper explains that, “Within the RFID contract,

managed by PEO EIS [U.S. Army Program Executive Office, Enterprise Information Systems], the

shipping customer may subscribe to an enhanced tracking technology and receive the data in a

manageable format for integration into the National RF-ITV Server”.

The take away from the aforementioned information - modernization is imperative! Instead of utilizing

aRFID tags and infrastructure, USTRANSCOM, with the alliance of six (6) commercial technology

partners, are working to develop a cargo-tracking device that uses cellular and satellite technologies to

provide ITV. USTRANSCOM’s position is, “For routine sustainment shipments within established

routes, the current USTRANSCOM provided ITV services, and DoD AISs [Automated Information

Systems] provides shippers adequate ITV information”. Therefore, only high value sustainment and force

movement cargo would require the new devices.

P a g e 5 | 12

The White Paper concludes with some key USTRANSCOM recommendations for the way ahead:

Make tracking devices and services available for contract booking. Services would include a data

subscription of location tracking.

Change DoD Manual 4140, DoD Supply Chain Materiel Management Procedures.

o Volume 5, Delivery of Material and Volume 7, Supporting Technologies changes.

o Removing reference to “Active RFID” and replacing with the words “Cargo Tracking

Device”.

Update the Defense Transportation Regulations to better align with the changes in DoD 4140

policy.

o Eliminate duplicative processes and expenses.

o Avoid a "tag everything" mindset or tag in a "just in case" event.

Combatant Commands, Services, and Agencies provide tagging requirements.

o Recommend applying tracking device to unit move cargo.

o Recommend applying tracking device to sustainment cargo by exception.

Define a requirement to modify the National RF-ITV server interface with IGC to integrate the

GPS ITV modernization technology and integrate the data for position reporting in the IGC

system.

Collectively, this means that there are substantial changes on the horizon for ITV. As the Marine Corps

continues to advocate for your equities at the Joint level, it is important that everyone conveys to HQMC

(LPD) their ITV requirements and opinions about proposed changes to invested technologies, as well as

policy changes. Sharing things like Mr. Crawford’s White Paper, as well as periodicals like this one, is a

great start! So that we can support our Marines today and into the future, LPD stands ready to take your

requirements, concerns, and ideas into the Joint forums. Semper Fidelis.

- POC: Mr. Christopher Cox, LPD-1, (866) 938-9922, christopher.cox.ctr@usmc.mil

UPCOMING UPDATES TO DISTRIBUTION/TRANSPORTATION POLICIES: Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC), Integrated Materiel Distribution Section (LPD-1), is in the process

of publishing a complete rewrite of the Marine Corps Orders (MCOs) governing freight operation within

the Marine Corps. LPD-1 is updating MCO 4690.1A, The Marine Corps Container Management Policy

(Container Policy); MCO 4600.41A, Marine Corps Distribution Manual (Distribution Manual); and MCO

4470.1A, USMC Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Deployment and Distribution Policy

(MDDP).

The Container Policy and the Distribution Manual are currently in the final phase of the signature routing

process. LPD-1 projects publication of both during the summer of 2018. The publication of the MDDP

is anticipated during the fall of 2018.

In addition, LPD-1 is reviewing the Action-Officer level changes in the Department of Defense (DoD)

DoD 4500.9-R, Defense Traffic Management Regulation (DTR) - DTR Part II , Cargo Movement and

DTR Part VI, Management and Control of Intermodal.

LPD is reviewing the following chapters in the DTR Part II:

- 201 General Cargo Movement Provisions

- 202 Cargo Routing and Movement

- 203 Shipper, Transshipper, and Receiver Requirement and Procedures

- 204 Hazardous Material

- 205 Transportation Protective Service

- 206 Bills of Lading

- 208 Packaging and Handling

P a g e 6 | 12

- 210 Transportation Discrepancy Report (TDR)

- 211 Loss and Damage Claim Procedures

- 212 Third Party Payment System (TPPS) Procedures

- 213 Defense Transportation Coordination Initiative (DTCI)

- Appendix I, TDR Instructions

- Appendix Q, Format for Special Assignment Airlift Missions Request

- Attachment V4, Marine Corps Transportation Account Codes (TACS)

LPD-1 initiated a complete rewrite to DTR Part VI, during the Joint Intermodal Working Group and will

review changes during the Action-Officer level review.

The list of changes and policy updates are extensive. Many will have direct impact on distribution freight

operations. In addition, there is a great possibility the updates will have implications to the Field Supply

and Maintenance Analysis Office checklist inspection. Therefore, ensure that our distribution

professionals are aware of these changes and incorporate them into their business processes accordingly.

Please contact the POC below for additional information.

- POC: Mr. James Hatcher Jr., LPD-1, (571) 256-2767, james.hatcher@usmc.mil

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF PACKAGING, HANDLING, AND LOGISTICS

ENGINEERS (NIPHLE) TRAINING UPDATE: The NIPHLE is a non-profit organization, whose objective

is to establish a realistic understanding of industrial and

government logistics and creates a forum for industry and

government to solve logistics problems that occur when

material is improperly packaged.

The NIPHLE program has an annual national training

symposium and sponsors specialized classes and training courses as a part of its extensive, continuing

educational endeavors to improve packaging, handling, and logistics innovation. This year’s NIPHLE

training symposium was held 7 May – 10 May, on Tobyhanna Army Depot, PA. During the training,

NIPHLE provided a common ground for the exchange of information in all areas of packaging and

handling, with a view toward improvements in design, materials, equipment, application, techniques,

simplification/standardization and cost evaluation methods for attendees.

If you would like information on next year’s national training symposium. Please visit the NIPHLE

website at https://www.niphle.com/.

- POC: Mr. Lakye Franklin, LPD-1, (571) 256-2763, lakye.franklin@usmc.mil

AUTOMATED MANIFEST SYSTEM-TACTICAL (AMS-TAC) UPDATE: During the Transportation & Distribution Operational Advisory Group (T&D OAG), attendees made

possible Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) recommendations for the new version of AMS-TAC. The

Future Requirements Board approved many of the recommended ECPs and is currently moving forward

through the contracting process. The current contract renewal will include the new ECPs as a contract

modification, with estimate delivery in FY19. As we move forward with plans to update from AMS-TAC

4.1.1.1 to 4.0.2.0, we do so with great excitement!

Some exciting things to look for in the new version include an updated Integrated Barcode System -

Receipt In Process function, integration of a tablet/mobile computer capability to replace the existing

CK71 scanners, optimization of the current data sharing capability between various AMS workstations

within a local network, and an update to the current local delivery process that allows an optional

association to the Nano Satellite Transponder. Additionally, AMS-TAC users can expect some

maintenance patches to the Integrated Data Environment/Global Transportation Network Convergence

(IGC) authentication process and fixes to the date-time-stamp within the IGC “YRT” closeout transaction.

P a g e 7 | 12

AMS-TAC Mini-Desk users can expect noticeable changes to many of the components, which include a

replacement for the current Panasonic Toughbooks, replacement for the current scanner capabilities, and a

potential update to the satellite communications package. Stay tuned for more information, system

updates, future release schedules, and quick fix opportunities.

- POC: Mr. Dominique Rhines, LPD-1, (571) 256-2772, dominique.rhines@usmc.mil

MARINE CORPS ORGANIC NON-TACTICAL EQUIPMENT PERMISSIBLE

OPERATING DISTANCES (POD):

The Marine Corps uses organic non-tactical equipment for the movement of Arms, Ammunition and

Explosives (AA&E) and related hazardous materials used for exercises and training purposes. “Organic

non-tactical” equipment is government owned vehicles used in support of installation AA&E operations.

The POD when moving organic non-tactical equipment is governed by the Naval Sea Systems Command

(NAVSEA), SW020-AG-SAF-010, Motor Vehicle Driver and Shipping Inspector’s Handbook for

Ammunition, Explosives and Related Hazardous Materials, 5-2.3.1, Driving Distances (Government

Owned Vehicles). The POD established for government owned vehicles within the continental United

States is 100 miles or less one-way. The distance of 100 miles ensures the Department of Defense is not

competing with the private commercial carrier industry and ensures government vehicles are used in the

most economical and efficient manner. Please be aware of this guidance, and refer the NAVSEA, SW020-

AG-SAF-010 or contact the POC below for additional information.

- POC: Mr. Oliver Bell, LPD-1, (571) 256-2764, oliver.j.bell@usmc.mil

CARGO MOVEMENT OPERATIONS SYSTEM (CMOS) INBOUND MODULE

IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE: Due to issues outlined below, Headquarters Marine Corps (LPD) has postponed the implementation of the

CMOS Inbound Module to the West Coast and Overseas Distribution Management Offices (DMOs), with

a possible delay to FY19.

The following issues are responsible for the delay:

1. The General Services Administration (GSA) packages do not have shipping labels or the 2D

barcoded Military Shipping Labels (MSLs) are not readable. GSA has created a Marine

Corps/GSA Working Group to identify vendors that do not comply with the MIL-STD 129R

labeling requirements. LPD will be sending out a request to the DMOs to collect data that will

assist GSA in correcting the label issue.

2. CMOS cannot process Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) multi-pack tri-walls (multiple

DODAACs). LPD communicated to DLA that we would no longer receive and process the

current multi-pack tri-walls. We are transitioning to “single consignee multi-pack”, thus allowing

the DMO to only process the Transportation Control Number (TCN).

3. CMOS cannot process the recurring DLA “Duplicate TCNs” in the way that Automated Manifest

System-Tactical (AMS-TAC) system processes them. LPD is providing DLA with examples of

the duplicate TCNs, since DLA considers this is a rare occurrence.

4. CMOS is not capable of scanning FedEx shipping labels. CMOS Version 7.8.1.1 will have the

capability to scan the FedEx tracking number, which is currently scheduled for release by 31 Dec

2018. The FedEx tracking number is only a concern if your activity does not receive the Advance

Shipping Notice and/or if you receive countless small packages, without any MSLs.

LPD will provide email updates on individual issues, as we make progress. Please contact the below

POC for additional information.

- POC: Mr. Joseph Rothrock, LPD-1, (571) 256-2761, joseph.rothrock.ctr@usmc.mil

P a g e 8 | 12

LPD-2:

2018 HOUSEHOLD GOODS (HHG) PEAK MOVING SEASON UPDATE: The United States Marine Corps is seeing an increase in the number of Marines and other Service

members inputting their shipment requests early. At week 21 of the 2018 Peak Moving Season, there

were over 8K more shipments awarded compared to the 3-year average.

United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) J4-H and the Services are addressing Non-

Temporary Storage capacity issues in the Dakotas, Hawaii, and Eastern North Carolina for May and June.

This summer, Industry is reporting that the overall number of Commercial Accounts executing HHG

shipments is down, compared to previous years, which could result in increased capacity for the

Department of Defense customers.

LPD continues to engage with USTRANSCOM, and all of the Joint Personal Property Shipping Offices,

to address capacity issues and to facilitate an improvement in pickup, storage, transportation, and delivery

customer service.

- POC: Mr. Fred Hyden, LPD-2 Section Head, (571) 256-2753, frederick.hyden@usmc.mil

DEFENSE PERSONAL PROPERTY SYSTEM (DPS) PROTOTYPE UPDATE: Air Force Digital Service (AFDS) was tasked by United States Transportation Command

(USTRANSCOM) to develop a prototype of the current DPS, which is built on architecture that does not

allow for fluent changes and system enhancements, with an anticipated release date of 1 June 2018.

Currently, Joint Personal Property Shipping Office (JPPSO) South Central (USAF), JPPSO North Central

(USAF), and JPPSO Southwest (USN) were selected to participate in the limited prototype release.

Additionally, USTRANSCOM recently sent an invitation out to solicit participation in the prototype from

the Transportation Service Provider (TSP) community and over 50 have agreed to participate. The scope

of the initial 1 June 2018 rollout will be narrow and encompass only Personally Procured Moves (PPM)

functionality for Airmen executing moves to/from San Antonio and Colorado Springs. This will allow

AFDS to test the most basic components of the system interfaces before moving forward with more

complex move scenarios (PPM+ Household Goods (HHG)).

Marine Corps representatives continue to work closely with AFDS towards creating system interfaces that

will allow for pre-population of basic order information and appropriation data within the system

prototype for Marines. This will enhance the overall user experience when creating a HHG shipment. In

addition, work is being done to address several audit concerns with the current invoicing process within

DPS and the Third Party Payment System.

- POC: Mr. Brian Imler, LPD-2, (571) 256-2754, brian.imler@usmc.mil

CENTRALLY BILLED ACCOUNTS (CBA) CENTRALIZATION: CBA Centralization has occurred and has shifted the role of CBA reconciliation of all transportation-type

CBAs to Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC), Personal Property and Passenger Transportation Section

(LPD-2). With the centralization effort, the Marine Corps will gain significant business efficiencies and

cost savings by re-engineering and more closely managing the CBA reconciliation process. We anticipate

an estimated recoupment of $500K annually from cost savings attributed to missed rebates, higher

processing fees, unnecessary interest payments, and additional labor costs. As of April 2018, the HQMC

LPD-2 team has seen an improvement in processing time of the CBA invoices from 32 days to 16 days.

The next phase of deployment, which began in March 2018, incorporated the use and implementation of

the Defense Travel System (DTS) CBA Reconciliation Module. Within the DTS, CBA Reconciliation

Module users can receive electronic CBA reconciliation against approved DTS travel documents, as well

as validation between the DTS travel document ticket data and information on the Government Travel

Charge Card invoice. All but the following Distribution Management Office locations (Camp Pendleton,

Iwakuni, and KBay) have successfully deployed. We will complete the remaining three locations by mid-

summer 2018.

- POC: Ms. Ann Barkley, LPD-2, (703) 963-2944, ann.barkley.ctr@usmc.mil

P a g e 9 | 12

IMPROVING MARINES’ PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATIONS (PCS)

EXPERIENCE WITH STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION: With PCS Peak Moving Season in full swing, the Personal Property and Passenger Transportation Section

(LPD-2) desires to use communication as a tool to increase customer satisfaction and improve the PCS

experience for Marines and their families.

As a part of our LPD-2 Strategic Communication Strategy,

we disseminate helpful PCS-related information to Marines

and their families with regular Facebook posts to both our

Personal Property and Passenger Transportation Facebook

pages.

To measure the success of the LPD-2 Facebook pages, we observe the percentage increase to the ‘page

likes’ and the increase to ‘post reach’ and ‘post engagement’. The percentage growth for the Personal

Property ‘page likes’ was 51.3% from 1 Feb 2018 – 30 Apr 2018. The percentage growth for the

Passenger Transportation ‘page likes’ was 29.6% from 1 Feb 2018 – 30 Apr 2018.

LPD-2 is pursuing placing the links for its Facebook pages on all issued Marine Corps PCS orders.

Additionally, LPD is pursuing adding links to its Facebook pages into the PCS and Retiree/Separatee

briefs offered by Marine Corps Community Services. The goal is to increase awareness of the Facebook

pages and show Marines and their families the value of the information shared on the platform. If

successful, both Facebook pages can experience a profound growth in ‘page likes’.

Per Facebook, ‘post reach’ is defined as “the number of people who had any posts from your page enter

their screen”. ‘Post engagement’ is “the number of people who click on links included in your posts”.

Both ‘post reach’ and ‘post engagement’ improved for both the Personal Property and the Passenger

Transportation Facebook pages. Please note that ‘post reach’ and ‘post engagement’ improve

exponentially when LPD-2 posts are shared other Facebook pages, such as that of United States

Transportation Command , Navy Household Goods, or HQMC DC I&L. Therefore, collaboration is an

integral part of our success.

LPD-2 understands the process of executing PCS Orders can be stressful. We will use Strategic

Communication as a tool to disseminate valuable PCS-related information that improves the PCS

experience for Marines and their families. We ask that you please share the below links to our LPD-2

Facebook pages:

Personal Property https://www.facebook.com/usmchouseholdgoods/

Passenger Transportation https://www.facebook.com/usmcpassengertravel/

- POC: Ms. Jillian R. McCain, LPD Strategic Communications SME, (571) 256-7135, jillian.mccain.ctr@usmc.mil

LPD-3:

UNITED STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND (USTRANSCOM)

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (TMS) USTRANSCOM is implementing an enterprise-wide, SAP-brand TMS to perform global transportation

functions within the Plan, Order, Ship, Track, and Pay (POST-P) construct. USTRANSCOM awarded a

two-year $23M contract to Telesto Group to integrate the TMS prototype for multimodal sustainment

cargo throughout the Pacific Command (PACOM) area of responsibility (AOR) using the following

phased approach:

P a g e 10 | 12

1.1 CONUS Visibility

1.2 CONUS to Hawaii

1.3 CONUS to Japan & Guam

1.4 Remaining PACOM AOR

Upon success, the integration of 1.1 – 1.4, unit moves, financials, auditability, and other current gaps may

be incorporated as the TMS is rolled out across the remaining Joint Deployment and Distribution

Enterprise:

2.0 EUCOM

3.0 AFRICOM

4.0 CENTCOM

5.0 SOUTHCOM

The desired end-state is to optimize transportation solutions by providing total visibility, cost informed

options, and auditability through necessary DOTMLPF-P changes, to include eliminating stove-piped

transportation systems, and closing 12 distinct performance gaps. Additional information briefs and

papers pertaining to the TMS can be found at https://ww2.ustranscom.mil/tms.

- POC: Mr. Kevin Ashley, LPD-3 Section Head, (571) 256-2775, kevin.ashley1@usmc.mil

THREE-WAY MATCH PROOF OF PRINCIPLE (POP): Logistics Policy Distribution (LPD) Branch is seeking to conduct a Three-Way Match PoP and will be

soliciting feasibility of support from all United States Marine Corps (USMC) installation Distribution

Management Offices (DMOs) via DoN Tracker. In the previous USMC Distribution Digest (Volume 9,

Number 1, 6 Feb 2018), LPD published an article titled “Evidence of Transportation Services Rendered”.

The article spoke to vulnerability of improper payments due to the lack of a three-way match, which

would require receiving documentation, in addition to the Bill of Lading and invoice, prior to approving

Transportation Service Provider payments. A receiving report ensures services were satisfactorily

rendered as ordered to support the accuracy and appropriateness of the payment. The intent of the PoP is

to measure the level of effort and to scale the segment of business that would be affected by proposed

policy and procedure changes. LPD takes an unbiased stance towards the results of the PoP, but believes

it is necessary to document the facts for any argument made. While the ideal solution to fully mitigate

this risk may be years away, it is imperative that we demonstrate incremental steps toward corrective

action or, at minimum, clearly document a rationale for delay, if needed.

- POC: Mr. Kevin Ashley, LPD-3 Section Head, (571) 256-2775, kevin.ashley1@usmc.mil

THE MASTER GUNNY’S CORNER: We have great news! Training and Education Command (TECOM) set the dates for the Distribution

Management Advanced Course (DMAC). The dates are as follows:

Report: 5 September 2018

Commence: 6 September 2018

Graduation: 4 October 2018

Currently, Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) has 22 seats allocated. Of the 22 seats,

HQMC will only fund eight (8) seats and the individual units will fund the remaining 14 seats. Please

start allocating money for Staff Non Commissioned Officers who are interested in attending. Solicitations

for nominations will go out in July 2018.

P a g e 11 | 12

We are having issues getting civilians into the Hazardous Materials courses. Currently, all civilians who

attempted to enroll in the classes are in “stand by” status. In addition, the unit is responsible for funding.

If we get a seat for a civilian, there is a possibility that an active duty Marine can bump them. We are

working with TECOM to allocate a number of seats, per year, for our civilian teammates.

Permeant Change of Station (PCS) Peak Moving Season is upon us. We ask that you please treat

everyone as if it was your PCS/Separatee/Retiree move. Give everyone VIP service, as we know you

already do. Pet transportation is becoming a huge issue. We will provide additional information, once we

get guidance from leadership. The warm months are here, so enjoy yourselves, and have fun. Protect

what you have earned and I look forward to hearing the good things you all are doing!

- POC: MGySgt Adam McDermott, LPD-1, (571) 256-2760, adam.mcdermott@usmc.mil

DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT OFFICE (DMO) SPOTLIGHT:

WHAT EVERY CUSTOMER DESERVES THIS PERMEANT CHANGE OF STATION

(PCS) PEAK MOVING SEASON: The PCS Peak Moving Season started 15 May 2018, and Distribution Management Office (DMO) Camp

Lejeune is already experiencing a large volume of customers. We encourage close communication and

coordination between Joint Personal Property Shipping Offices and Installation Personnel Administration

Centers when scheduling travelers to various locations around the globe. With new pet requirements in

place, which vary from airline to airline, it can be difficult to meet traveler needs. We experience these

concerns throughout different regions and, as a community, we should try to accommodate travelers and

their pets’ needs, without jeopardizing our policies and regulations.

DMOs have a responsibility to guide travelers and their pet(s) from point of origin to destination. To ease

the frustration experienced by travelers, we must explain the entire process and work to find a solution to

any issues they may face. Advising all travelers of limited Air Mobility Command (AMC) pet space is

key to our own success. Please encourage customers to start their PCS planning early and to provide

alternate move dates to alleviate multiple issues that can occur at different levels.

DMO Camp Lejeune has implemented a brief that provides detailed information on pet availability and

customer procedures to follow when moving their pet(s) from point of origin to destination. This makes

the customer aware of the limited pet space on AMC and ensures they understand availability is on a first-

come-first-serve basis. In addition to the brief, we provide customers with commercial airline phone

numbers for direct coordination of their pet(s) travel, which reassures them of our assistance through the

process. The brief also includes Household Goods entitlements for all Service Members and Department

of Defense (DoD) personnel. We encourage our customers to attend our class, whether it is their first or

last move, because they will receive the latest information on their moving entitlements.

There are challenges associated with Peak Moving Season, so we offer additional information about

services sponsored by Marine Corps Community Services and the Relocation Assistance Program, which

support all Service Members, DoD Civilians, and their family members. The better educated the customer

is, the better chances of them making more informed decisions. DMO Camp Lejeune and Relocation

Assistance Program personnel are working to ensure all Service Members, DoD Civilians and their family

members experience seamless transitions to and from their duty station.

- POC: MSgt Cresencio Ocampo, Marine Corps Installations East - Marine Corps Base Camp

Lejeune, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Distribution Management Chief, (910) 450-8402,

cresencio.ocampo@usmc.mil

P a g e 12 | 12

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

NATIONAL DEFENSE TRANSPORTATION ASSOCIATION (NDTA) - UNITED

STATES TRANSPORTATION COMMAND 6th ANNUAL FALL MEETING: We are excited to announce that Registration is now open

for the 6th annual NDTA-USTRANSCOM Fall Meeting,

scheduled 22-25 Oct 2018 at the Gaylord National Harbor.

This year’s theme is Delivering Readiness and Resiliency in

an Unpredictable World. During the Meeting, we will look

closely at the challenges that face the defense logistics

enterprise in the current security environment.

The Fall Meeting provides the forum to foster our critical public and private partnership in defense

transportation through frank discussion about new policies, technologies, and best practices.

Additionally, the Fall Meeting offers a dynamic training platform through its 62 plus Transportation

University Courses relating to transportation readiness for the Department of Defense, in which attendees

are able to earn Continuing Education Units for participation. Additional information is available at

www.ndtahq.com/events/fall-meeting. Register today!

Editor’s Notes:

Please submit recommendations for DMO Spotlight articles and Announcements to Ms. Jillian R.

McCain, USMC Distribution Digest Editor, 571-256-7135, jillian.mccain.ctr@usmc.mil.