DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 709TH MILITARY POLICE BATTALION UNIT 28018
APOAE 09112

AETS-MPQ-CO	10 September 2024

Dear Future Warrior,
Congratulations on your forthcoming assignment to the 709th Military Police Battalion! Command Sergeant Major Antonio Soto and I want to welcome you and your family to this historic battalion and provide you some information to make your transition as smooth as possible. Before we do, we want to share a bit of history about the Warrior Battalion. The 709th is the United States Army's most geographically dispersed Military Police Battalion, responsible for the provision of community law enforcement across Germany and Italy. In addition to law enforcement requirements, the Warrior Battalion trains for future operations and contingencies in support of U.S. Army Europe and Africa and the 21st Theater Sustainment Command.
Prior to your arrival, you will be assigned a sponsor to assist with your transition into the battalion. To ensure this is a smooth transition, you must complete all appropriate sections on the ACT website. Furthermore, and most importantly, you must provide your sponsor with a good point of contact and communicate with them on a regular basis.
Prior to your arrival, you can expect your sponsor to request information on the following six topics, that if are not addressed early can create difficulties with your transition:
1.		Command Sponsorship. Ensure dependents are eligible for a fully funded overseas assignment.
2.	Passports & Visas. Learn which travel documents are required before PCSing overseas by using the following links: U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria webpage.  
3.		Hotel Reservations/On-post lodging/Pets. Please communicate your family's composition, to include pets, to ensure your sponsor reserves the appropriate lodging!
4.	Mail. Prior to arrival, your sponsor can establish your P.O. Box.
5.	Child and Youth Services (CYS) & School Registration. Sign up for Military Child Care online for your gaining location to be ready to support your childcare needs. Enroll your children in DoDEA schools as soon as possible and contact your School Liaison Officer (SLO) for assistance.
6.	Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) Screening for anyone PCSing with a family, Married Army Couples Program (MACP) details for dual military couples, and Buddy-Program enrollment are things that can impact your assignment.

Please communicate this information to your sponsor so they can provide you with the best guidance and resources. For EFMP support, see information on the Community Resource Guides
To conclude, Warrior 7 and I are incredibly excited about your assignment to this historic battalion. As discussed above, please continuously remain in contact with your sponsor as this communication will be vital to your reception to the battalion.

	

CSM ANTONIO J. SOTO CSM,USA
Command Sergeant Major

RUSSELL B. SMITH LTC, MP
Commanding