New furniture fills Barrack 100 at Fort Cavazos

By Eric Franklin, Fort Cavazos Public AffairsMarch 7, 2024

Spc. Vincent Scott, 1st Cavalry Division, shows off his modest barracks room, which doubles as an entertainment hub, featuring a gaming console, dual screens and a laptop, reflecting a modern Soldier's balance of duty and digital leisure....
Spc. Vincent Scott, 1st Cavalry Division, shows off his modest barracks room, which doubles as an entertainment hub, featuring a gaming console, dual screens and a laptop, reflecting a modern Soldier's balance of duty and digital leisure. (U.S. Army photo by Eric Franklin, Fort Cavazos Public Affairs) (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT CAVAZOS, Texas — The upcoming opening of Barrack 100 here represents a key milestone, ushering in the need for contemporary furnishings to continuing improving the quality of life for Soldiers. The Directorate of Public Works, Furnishing Management Office swapped outdated furniture in several barracks, with modern replacements, aligning the living spaces with the new standard.

Currently, 70 of the 99 barracks across the installation have undergone renovations, with an additional 15 being updated. Upon completing these renovations, Soldiers assigned to these barracks will be welcomed with brand-new furniture, enhancing their living experience.

The modernization of military life does not overlook Soldiers’ barracks, which are transitioning from basic sleeping quarters to personal retreats. Jim Johnson, housing manager with the Directorate of Public Works, Furnishing Management Office, notes that troops infuse their living spaces with home elements. They’re utilizing versatile, lightweight furniture and incorporating modern conveniences for increased adaptability.

Modern amenities like updated lamps with USB charging ports, allow Soldiers to keep their devices powered up. But it’s the personal touches that stand out, Johnson notes, and are less about function and more about personal comfort.

“It has been fascinating to see how Soldiers personalize their space, especially with gaming systems and the 55-inch or 60-inch TV making it feel more like home in this environment.”

Contractors work meticulously and at a steady pace, ensuring that Barrack 100 is not only fully stocked but also primed for the comfort of the Soldiers with brand new furniture. This effort is part of the preparations for the grand opening...
Contractors work meticulously and at a steady pace, ensuring that Barrack 100 is not only fully stocked but also primed for the comfort of the Soldiers with brand new furniture. This effort is part of the preparations for the grand opening scheduled later next month. (U.S. Army photo by Eric Franklin, Fort Cavazos Public Affairs) (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

As the military invests in improving barracks, Soldiers note the enhanced living conditions that resemble civilian comforts.

Spc. Vincent Scott, 1st Cavalry Division, expressed approval of the upgrades and said, “It is pretty good. I would say it’s nice knowing they’re working to improve our living area for us over here.”

This initiative emphasizes the importance of their well-being and satisfaction in their living environments.

U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Cavazos is actively working to enhance and update its residential units, aiming to elevate the standard of living for single Soldiers and families, said Brian Dosa, Fort Cavazos Directorate of Public Works director.

“We competed for that through the Army’s Facility Investment Plan, which outlines a ten-year strategy,” Dosa explained. “We present our needs, and then Army decision-makers prioritize and determine the funding allocations. Generally, due to our larger size, older infrastructure and the functions we perform at Fort Cavazos, we fare quite well compared to other Army installations.”

Scott feels the changes are great and much needed.

“It feels more like home, more like an apartment,” he said. “You can enjoy being here.”