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Newcomers GuideThis guide has been prepared as a general source of information and ready reference while you are on duty with the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Washington Headquarters Services. The Office of Secretary of Defense/Washington Headquarters Services is the apex of Department of Defense and Joint Staff duty. During your tour here, you will in many cases be governed more directly by Department of Defense directives and instructions than by the implementing directives of your respective Service. You should, therefore, consider and conduct yourself as a "representative" of the Secretary of Defense and the Armed Forces. You are expected to maintain your proficiency where required by Service qualification, physical fitness, etc. Should you have any inquiries concerning the contents of this guide, or if there is a subject about which you have questions or require assistance, do not hesitate to call the Military Personnel Office at (703) 697-1886. We are happy to have you in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and hope you will have a most enjoyable tour. MILPERS LINKS:
Automobile Registration and Driver's LicensesThe metropolitan Washington area is made up of many different jurisdictions, each having its own specific requirements for vehicle registration, taxation, and safety inspection. Driver's license requirements vary among Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. For specific information regarding state requirements, contact: Virginia Division of Motor VehiclesFor all locations, call 1-800-368-5463. For city or county licensing as required in the Commonwealth of Virginia, consult the White Pages of the local telephone directory under the specific locality. Maryland Motor Vehicle AdministrationMaryland area public information, 1-800-950-1682, or consult the White Pages of the local telephone directory for specific offices. District of Columbia Motor Vehicle BureauWashington area public information, (202) 727-5000, or consult the White Pages of the local telephone directory for specific offices.
Military Base Decals for AutomobilesArmyFort Myer PMO, Bldg 415, Sheridan Ave, Room 160 (24hr service). Fort Myer no longer sends a representative to Pentagon on Tuesday. NavyRoom 5A514A, Pentagon Air ForceRoom 5A282, Pentagon MarineHenderson Hall, Building 1. When applying for a base decal, the following information must be provided (1) make of automobile (2) model3) color (4) year (5) insurance company (6) vehicle registration, and (7) license number and state. Awards and DecorationsGuidance concerning all DoD awards is located in DoD Manual 1348.33-M, which can be obtained from the OSD Publications Office, Room 3B960, Pentagon and http://www.defenselink.mil/pubs . Inquiries concerning Defense Awards should be directed to the Awards Section in the Military Personnel Division. Service specific awards are governed by the various Service regulations and publications. Inquiries and correspondence regarding Service awards should be directed to the appropriate Service Desk in the Military Personnel Division. DoD Manual 1348.33-M establishes the Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge. This badge is presented to the individual during in processing into the Office of the Secretary of Defense/Washington Headquarters Services. A certificate of authorization for permanent wear on the uniform is issued to active duty personnel after being assigned one year with an OSD/WHS activity in an authorized billet. Individual Mobilization Augmentees (IMA) must be assigned for two years in an OSD/WHS authorized billet. Dental Records and TreatmentDental treatment should be obtained from the activity having custody of your dental records. However, in an emergency military personnel may seek treatment at any Allied Forces Dental Clinic. Dental records are maintained at the following locations: ArmyDi Lorenzo Tri-Care Dental Clinic, Pentagon NavyDi Lorenzo Tri-Care Dental Clinic, Pentagon Air ForceGeneral Officers, Cols; CMSgts - US Air Force Dental Clinic, Room 4B655, Pentagon MarineDi Lorenzo Tri-Care Dental Clinic, Pentagon Dining FacilitiesA Tri-Service dining facility is available in Building 404 at Fort Myer 696-3642. Monday - Friday Saturday and Sunday (to include holidays) Travel time to and from the dining facility may not be conducive to use by personnel assigned to OSD. All enlisted personnel assigned to OSD/WHS are, therefore, paid Rations Not Available. Tuition Assistance and Off-Duty EducationArmyMatters pertaining to tuition assistance and off duty education are handled by the Education Services Office, Pentagon Room 3C155, 614-4514. NavyTuition assistance forms are available at the Navy Annex Rm 1057. Form NAVEDTRA 1560/6 (Rev. 1-93) must be filled out and signed by the member and returned to Rm 1057 for approval. Once approved member must send to school 15 days prior to start date. Air ForceMatters pertaining to off duty education and tuition assistance are handled by the Air Force Education Services Office, Pentagon Room 4A1088I, 697-7074. MarineThe Headquarters Battalion Education Office, Henderson Hall, is responsible for providing information and assistance regarding off duty education, tuition assistance, etc. Getting to the PentagonFor newcomers to the Washington area, the first problem encountered is getting around. The Pentagon is actually located in Arlington, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, DC, and at the convergence of several major roadways. Careful planning and attention to directional signs is a MUST for the newcomer. Generally, the approach to the Pentagon will be on the Henry G. Shirley Memorial Highway (Interstate 395). In-processing personnel should park only in designated visitors' parking areas. Parking in other than the visitors lots is reserved for parking permits and is strictly enforced. In the assignment of spaces, preference is given to carpools, although some parking permits are available for unusual working hours or special situations. Once you are assigned, questions and individual situations may be directed to your directorate Administration Office or the Central Parking Office located in room 2E165, (703) 697-6251. Admittance to the Pentagon building is by escort or building pass. An Armed Forces identification card can be used on week days during normal duty hours only. Visitors without a building pass will be screened by electronic detectors. The information desk inside any major entrance can furnish a floor plan of the Pentagon. Excellent commercial transportation serves the Pentagon for those who prefer to avoid traffic and parking problems. Government HousingTransient billets are available throughout the area on a first come, first serve basis. The maximum stay in these facilities, if available, is 30 days. Allowable tenancy is often reduced during high travel periods. The "Washington Area Information Handbook" lists available guest houses in the metropolitan Washington area. Single enlisted personnel assigned to OSD, E-6 and below, are provided housing on a space available basis at Headquarters and Headquarters Company, United States Army, Building 406, Fort Myer. If space is not available, a statement of non availability will be furnished. Geographic bachelors are provided housing only on a case-by-case basis. If housing is provided, geographic bachelors may subsequently be required to vacate such quarters to provide billet space for single soldiers. Housing Referral OfficeThe Housing Referral Offices have an extensive list of housing available in the metropolitan DC area (Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia). The lists are open to members of all Services. It is best to visit rather than phone. Fort Myer Housing Office Bldg 202, (703) 696-3549 The Department of Defense has directed that all personnel reporting for temporary or permanent change of station who will not occupy government quarters must report, either in person or by letter or through an authorized representative, to any housing referral office listed in the "Washington Area Information Handbook." You or your agent are required to report to a housing referral office before renting or leasing any non government housing. A housing counselor will assist you in locating suitable housing accommodations, either temporary or permanent, and offer information regarding the current housing situation in this area. In addition, information regarding schools, shopping areas, local transportation, and GI, FHA, and VA loans is made available. VA/FHA In-Service Home Loan EligibilityCertificates of Eligibility for FHA in-service loans and statements required by the Veterans Administration for home loan guarantees are handled by contacting the appropriate Service representative in the Military Personnel Division, except for Air Force personnel who will contact Customer Service Center (Personal Affairs), Room 5A286, (703) 695-4722. The service desks will do "Statements of Service" for service members. Armed Forces Hostess AssociationThe Armed Forces Hostess Association provides diverse information to locally assigned personnel pertaining to the metropolitan Washington area and military installations worldwide. They publish a comprehensive guide to services available throughout the area in their "Washington Area Information Handbook". Specific information regarding firms that offer discounts and buying services may also be obtained. The Armed Forces Hostess Association is in Room 1A736 of the Pentagon, (703) 697-6857 or (703) 697-3180. Hours are 0930 to 1430, Monday through Friday. Household Goods and BaggageUpon arrival, all personnel should contact: Army and Air Force HHG and BAGGAGE Navy Marine Identification CardsApplications for military and dependent identification (ID) cards should be made at the locations shown below. If you ensure you are properly entered into the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS) before arrival, it will save much needed time. Please call for information first. It may be necessary to bring a copy of your marriage certificate and birth certificates of your children. ArmyPentagon Room 1B920. Appointment must be scheduled at http://www.hqda.army.mil/MPSC/idcard2.htm (703) 695-1101 or 2531 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202 Telephone (703) 602-1076. Personnel Service Center, 5A286 NavyPersonnel Support Detachment Air ForceUSAF Military Personnel Flight MarineUSMC Henderson Hall LeaveAll leaves will be approved and signed by the supervisor prior to submission to the Military Personnel Division for a leave authorization number. Upon assignment of a leave authorization number, OSD Military Personnel will forward Parts II and III to the unit of assignment. Upon completion of leave, complete Part III and return it to OSD, Military Personnel for processing no later than three (3) duty days after returning from leave or canceling leave. Army All Army personnel (officers and enlisted) should submit their DA Form 31 (Request and Authorization for Leave) at least seven (7) working days prior to departing on leave. Request for outside CONUS leave must be submitted 30 days prior. Blocks 2 through 12 must be completed. Block 8 (Organization and Station) should be completed as follows: USAE OSD-WHS The approving authority (Block 13) is the Director, Military Personnel Division and should be left blank by the requester. The member's copy will be forwarded through distribution. Navy Requests for leave by Navy Personnel are prepared on a three-part NAVCOMPT Form 3065 and approved by the individual's supervisor. Upon approval, the form will be sent to the Military Personnel Division, so it may be recorded and assigned a Leave Control Number. After the number is assigned, the "White" copy will be returned to the member who must have it in his/her possession during the leave period. Upon completion of leave, the member will complete blocks 27 and 28 and forward to Military Personnel Division, WHS, Room 4A948, Pentagon. The "Pink" copy will then be returned to the individual to keep for personal records. Air Force All Air Force personnel (officers and enlisted) should submit their AF Form 988, Request and Authorization for Leave to the Air Force Desk in OSD, Military Personnel, Room 4A948, Pentagon no earlier than 14 calendar days or no later than three duty days prior to departure on leave. Marine Leave requests for Marine Corps personnel can be picked up from the Military Personnel Division, or the Consolidated Administrative Office. Terminal Leave, Convalescent Leave, and Permissive TDYsAll such requests must be approved by OSD Chief of Military Personnel, Pentagon Room 5E565. Leave Outside the Continental United StatesIndividuals desiring leave outside of CONUS are requested to inquire at the Military Personnel Division for specific information regarding the individual service requirements. Emergency LeaveContact your individual service representative for specific information. Medical Care for Members and FamiliesThe information below is intended only as a synopsis of the detailed information which all members received from TRICARE. For additional information or to get answers to specific questions, you are encouraged to contact your nearest TRICARE Service Center at 1-888- 999-5195 Whatever your TRICARE choice, make sure that you and your family members are properly registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility System (DEERS). To verify your DEERS information call 1-800-538-9552. Active Duty personnel who in processed before 7 June 1998 do not have to complete a TRICARE Prime enrollment form. However, they should call or visit the military treatment facility (MTF) nearest their work site to confirm enrollment. For Active Duty families and Retirees and their families, electing to enroll in the Prime option, please note the following enrollment guidelines: If you live within a 30-minute drive of an MTF, enrollment will be with a Primary Care Manager (PCM) team at the MTF. Once capacity is reached in the military system. enrollment will be offered in the TRICARE civilian network. If you are currently a regular user of a military medical facility, you are highly encouraged to enroll as soon as possible to guarantee access to your MTF provider. If you live beyond a 30-minute drive from an MTF, you should read the Provider Directory and select a civilian PCM. You may, however, choose a military PCM if you are willing to waive the 30-minute drive standard to access your health care. Regardless of whether you choose a civilian or a military PCM, please indicate your first and second choice on the form. TRICARE will make every attempt to honor your first choice as long as there is capacity. If you do not indicate selection of a PCM on an enrollment form, TRICARE will assign you either an MTF or a civilian PCM, depending upon your travel distance. If you need more enrollment forms for additional family members call 1-888-999-5195 or you can print a form from the Sierra Military Health Services web site at http://www.sierramilitary.com/ The Army Health Clinic in the Pentagon is available to all personnel during emergencies. Military Installations in the AreaThere are a variety of military installations in the metropolitan Washington area. Click here for a map of the location of most military installations. The Armed Forces Hostess Association, room 1A736 has detailed maps for most installations. Tour of Duty in OSD/WHSDepartment of Defense Directive 1315.7, establishes policies and procedures with regard to assignment and tours of duty in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Defense Agencies and Field Activities. Pay and Pay RecordsArmyPay records are maintained at the Pentagon Army Finance Office, Room 2C1052, Pentagon (703) 697-2801. NavyPay records are maintained at the Personnel Support Activity Detachment, NAS Anacostia, Washington D. C. Information regarding officer and enlisted pay matters may be obtained by calling (202) 433-2498 or DSN 288-2498. The Pentagon Branch Office is located in Room 4A664A, (703) 697-4150. Checks are available for pick-up in the Military Personnel Division by the officer or his representative on payday. Changes of allotments, income tax deductions, etc. may be accomplished through the Pentagon Branch Office or MPD. Air ForceUSAF Pay records are maintained at the Base Finance Office, Bolling AFB. Checks are mailed to the address selected by the individual. Changes of check mailing address, allotments, income tax deductions, etc., may be accomplished in Room 5E1009, the Pentagon, 695-5453 MarinePay record transactions must be accomplished through the Headquarters Battalion Consolidated Administrative Office at 614-7148, 7149, 7152. Pentagon ToursThe Pentagon Tour operates weekdays from 0900 to 1500 every hour on the hour and is an excellent way to learn the history of the Department of Defense and the world's largest office building. Permanent Change of Station/Detachment OrdersPCS orders are forwarded by the Military Personnel Division to the individual concerned through the activity Executive/Administrative office. Upon receipt of PCS orders, personnel are requested to contact the appropriate Service Desk of the Military Personnel Division to coordinate reassignment related actions. If reassignment notification is received from a source other than MPD the individual should contact this office to ensure the appropriate actions are being accomplished. It should be noted that orders and such for Air Force personnel are processed primarily through the Military Personnel Division. Personnel RecordsPersonnel records of military personnel assigned to the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Washington Headquarters Services are maintained at the following locations: ArmyOfficer/Enlisted NavyOfficer/Enlisted Air ForceOfficer/Enlisted USMCOfficers and Enlisted Physical ExaminationsAll ServicesThe individual is responsible for arranging an appointment for his/her physical examination which can be done by calling the Health Clinic, Physical Exam Section, Pentagon, 697-3545. Telephone NumbersThe area code for the Pentagon is 703. There are several different exchanges within the Pentagon with the Defense Switched Network (DSN) (formerly AUTOVON) prefix that corresponds (listed below). When dialing outside the local 703 area code, you must use the appropriate area code (suburban Maryland--301 or 410, District of Columbia--202). The telephone numbers in this guide are area code 703 unless otherwise stated. Additional information regarding the Defense Telephone Service can be found in the Department of Defense Telephone Directory. DSN Prefixes Temporary DutyMilitary personnel TDY requirements are processed in accordance with Administrative Instruction No. 53. Personnel reporting for TDY of more than 15 days with OSD/WHS activities must in process through Military Personnel Division, Room 4A948. Upon completion of TDY, they must also out process through Military Personnel Division. Transportation ServicesCommercial Bus and Rail ServiceCommercial bus service (Metro bus) is available to most locations in the metropolitan Washington DC area. Metro rail (subway service) is available from the Pentagon to selected areas. Metro bus and Metro rail terminals are conveniently located to the Pentagon. Schedules are available at the ticket booth on the Pentagon Concourse or by calling (202) 637-7000. DOD Bus ServiceThe Department of Defense has established a DOD bus service that operates during normal duty hours. The buses are available for use by DOD personnel on official business. The service is free and all DOD installations or activities in the metropolitan Washington area may be reached by one or more of the lines. A complete schedule is available in the back of the DOD Telephone Directory, at the information booth on the Concourse, or at the Pentagon DOD bus stops at South parking. Uniform and Civilian ClothingWear of the UniformMilitary personnel assigned to OSD Staff are required to wear their uniforms at all times while on duty. Wearing of the uniform is in accordance with Service regulation. Dungaree and fatigue uniforms are not appropriate for wear by personnel assigned to OSD. Civilian AttireThe wearing of civilian attire for certain meetings outside DOD is authorized when a military uniform would be inappropriate. Civilian attire will be worn by personnel who attend congressional hearings; however, the Service uniform must be worn by personnel who are called as witnesses during hearings. Seasonal ChangesNavy and Marine Corps summer uniforms will normally be worn beginning on the first Monday in May, and winter uniforms beginning on the first Monday in October.
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