Unfortunately, emergencies can and do happen no matter how well
you planned for your move. Having important information with you can help ease
the frustration of an emergency. First, make sure you always have a set of
orders with you when you travel, in fact it is a good idea to have several sets
of orders. Keep your new command's phone number, and sponsor's number with you.
Have extra cash and credit cards; having an ATM card is also a good idea. You
also need to travel with car insurance information. Lastly, this
SITES book has many phone numbers and pieces of information which can be an
invaluable resource. If you are enroute to your new command, and an emergency
does come up, try to find the nearest military installation for assistance.
Also, the Red Cross is always available for assistance 24 hours a day. You can
get the nearest Chapter's phone number in the White Pages. AAA is a good
automobile service that you may want to join prior to leaving your losing
command; they can assist with roadside emergency services, and towing. If
emergency funds are needed enroute or once you arrive, Army Emergency Relief,
Navy Marine-Corp Relief, Air Force Aid, and the Red Cross can provide such funds
through loans on a case-by-case basis. You may ask for Army Emergency Relief
assistance at any of these agencies. Keep in mind these funds are
usually granted for emergency purposes only. To assist in evaluating your needs,
bring your ID card, leave papers, orders, LES, and any other useful information
such as dental estimates, medical bills, funeral bills, or vehicle repair
estimates which will help the counselor to make a decision regarding any types
of aid for which you are applying.After-duty-hour emergencies should call the
staff duty officer at (301)677-4805. Will serve all
branches. Provides financial assistance (loans/grants) to active-duty
and retired as well as their family members in times of crisis. Will
assist with funds for food, emergency shelter, transportation, funeral and
hospital expenses. Will not assist to pay credit debts, furniture
payments or POV down-payments.