Covid-19 Update

We are expected to be in Japan at the end of June.

So what is happening with the world being in quarantine due to Covid-19?

Well, we are still going, there is just more paperwork! Japan is shut down until May 6th, well it may be extended. They have a travel ban. The only people allowed in Japan have to be apart of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). The SOFA agreement allows a host country (U.S., in this instance) and a foreign country (Japan, in this instance) stationing forces. The SOFA agreement also allows Doug and I to travel to Japan on military orders and we don’t need a visa. This is why I have a U.S. military passport that will allow me to enter Japan without applying for a visa. I get a special sticker on my military passport!

So, this means, we are still moving.

Our pack out is still scheduled for May 14th and 15th. Doug received an email two days ago, stating that the pack out was still happening. The email also entailed what precautions we need to do during this pandemic while they are packing us out. The movers will be wearing masks and we will be wearing masks.

In order for Doug to separate from this command, they have to send a letter of hardship to ‘Big Navy’. ‘Big Navy’ will then have to approve the letter so that we can book tickets. Today, his command sent the letter, so it is a hurry up and wait process (this is the military’s secret motto).