Joint Base Lewis-McChord-- Following the Army's recent announcement about regulation changes for the advanced combat uniform, many soldiers have rushed to tailor shops and doled out their hard-earned dollars in order to ditch the Velcro. Other Soldiers are hesitant to make the change because of the cost associated. But one of JBLM's best kept secrets is about to change that.
The 593rd Sustainment Brigade's 295th Quartermaster Company Clothing Repair Shop, located at the 80th Ordnance Battalion motorpool on JBLM-North, offers uniform repair and renovation services to all service members free of charge.
The repair shop services include sewing on name tags, Velcro replacement, zipper replacement and other minor repairs. Replacement Velcro is provided by the shop at no cost to the customer.
Uniform repairs will be completed and items are typically returned within 72 hours.
Sgt. Maj. Scott D. Lesch, of the 112th Military Mail Terminal, had his name tape, U.S. Army tape, rank and skills badges sewn on two of his uniforms--one at the Soldier-operated repair shop and one at a civilian tailor shop. Though the quality of the Soldier's work was not quite as high as the civilians', Lesch said he would still use their services if he needed the Velcro on his uniform replaced.
"This is a great service for our Soldiers," Lesch said. "It was done professionally. And everything is within regulations."
"We can save the Soldiers a lot of money--close to $15 per uniform," said Sgt. 1st Class Alecia D. Booker, a platoon sergeant and clothing repair specialist assigned to 295th QMC, and native of Thomasville, N.C.
The benefit is double-fold. "It gives these guys more training--a chance to do their jobs," said Booker of the Soldiers in her platoon. "The Soldiers want more work. We've had quite a few people turn in items, but it's not the bulk we can handle."
The Soldiers assigned to the shop were recently given refresher training for their jobs. Additionally, NCOs in the company were trained on troubleshooting and fixing faulty equipment.
Repairs are done in a military trailer so that the sew shop can be mobilized into field conditions.
"It really boosts the Soldiers' morale when they get their needs met, especially out in the field," said Booker. In addition to uniform repairs, the 295th QMC also offers laundry and shower services.
Those wanting to take advantage of the free services should be sure to empty pockets and label all articles, Booker said. Turn-in forms are available at the 80th Ord. Bn. motorpool.
Company mass turn-ins can be coordinated between unit supply sergeants and the 295th QMC.
Pending the acquisition of the right equipment, the shop will eventually offer embroidering of name tapes, and canvas repair as well.
Hours of Operation
Mon 1300-1500 Pickup
Tues 0930-1130 Turn-in 1300-1500 Pickup
Wed 0930-1130 Turn-in 1300-1500 Pickup
Thu CLOSED FOR WTT
Fri 0930-1100 Turn-in
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