ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Movement of parts from one process to another on Anniston Army Depot is a key aspect of the production schedule and the Material Movement Branch's 28 employees provide that function.
"We support the whole depot," said Janice Chatman, chief of the Material Movement Branch, which is part of the Directorate of Material Management.
Most employees of Anniston Army Depot have heard of the mule train.
The mules are pulling vehicles and each of the four trains consists of one mule, its attached carts and a supporting forklift to load and unload the carts.
Together, the trains are a key part of the branch's mission.
Each train is assigned a different route with the team of drivers -- one for the mule and the other for the forklift -- switching vehicles each week equitably split duties. Once a month, routes are changed, ensuring each team is familiar with all the vehicles necessary for their job and the various stops along each route.
"Now, they have begun to scan all of the items and baskets," said Chatman. "So, each load is logged into its destination building as it is delivered."
The scan allows depot personnel to track the material's location utilizing Depot Total Asset Visibility.
For those items too large to be delivered via the mule train, truck drivers can be dispatched.
The branch's mission, however, is more than just the movement of parts.
As weapon system components end their life cycle, material examiners and identifiers transfer them to the Defense Logistics Agency for disposition.
The branch also stores and delivers compressed gases for the installation and processes small components for foreign military sales programs.
"We also pick up laundry and deliver it back to the shops," said Chatman.
At the pallet yard, pallets and boxes are stored and inventoried for reuse. Additional storage parts can be found at Z Lot, which the branch maintains to assist in movement of products in and out of production areas.
Because the branch is small, each employee is trained to know how to perform each piece of equipment, in case they are needed.
"I have to keep my employees cross-trained," said Chatman "We are a hard-working group and there is never a dull moment. We are always moving."
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